BBC Inside Science Is 1.5 still alive?
Feb 27, 2025
Graham Lawton, a writer for New Scientist, sheds light on the crucial 1.5°C threshold in climate change discussions. He, alongside climate experts Mark Maslin and Lorraine Whitmarsh, addresses the implications of recent extreme weather. The podcast also explores NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission and its findings from asteroid Bennu, revealing insights into the origins of life. AI advancements, such as DeepSeek, are examined, alongside surprising discoveries in science, including research that often contradicts initial hypotheses.
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Origin of 1.5C Target
- The 1.5C target originated in the Paris Agreement, initially as an aspirational goal alongside the 2C target.
- It resulted from political efforts by the EU, UK, and small island nations pushing for stronger climate commitments.
Impact of 1.5C Warming
- While seemingly small, a 1.5C global temperature increase significantly impacts the entire planet, adding vast energy to the climate system.
- This leads to more frequent and intense extreme weather events, like wildfires and floods, and record-breaking heatwaves.
Public Perception of 1.5C
- The public rarely discusses the 1.5C figure, finding it less relatable than tangible climate impacts.
- Communicating climate change effectively involves focusing on relatable experiences like changing weather patterns and specific local risks.