Earth’s ‘vital signs’ show humanity’s future in balance, say climate experts

When our bodies’ vital signs hit extremes, our health and even our lives are at risk. Today, many of Earth’s vital signs have hit record extremes, putting humanity’s very future at risk.

Damian Carrington, Environment Editor for The Guardian, breaks down a new report issued by senior climate scientists. Of 35 ‘Earth vital signs’ assessed in 2023, 25 were the worst ever recorded. For example, Earth’s surface and ocean temperatures hit all-time highs, driven by record burning of fossil fuels. Perhaps most troubling, scientists identified 28 feedback loops, such as melting permafrost, that can trigger tipping points, accelerating planetary warming.

Noting “stiff resistance from those benefiting financially from the current fossil-fuel based system,” the report authors state that “climate change could cause many millions of additional deaths by 2050. We need bold, transformative change.”

Today’s action will go to a range of influential federal Conservatives. The Conservative Party hopes to take the reigns of power in Canada soon. Let them know that ensuring a future for our planet is a crucial part of that power.