The United Nations’ human rights chief has issued a dire warning that up to 80 million people could face hunger if climate change targets are not met. Volker Turk, speaking at a debate held by the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, highlighted the significant negative impact that extreme weather events are having on crops, herds, and ecosystems, leading to concerns about global food availability.
Turk stated that more than 828 million people faced hunger in 2021, and climate change is projected to put an additional 80 million people at risk of hunger by the middle of this century. He stressed the urgency of taking immediate action to address climate change, as the environment is facing depletion, destruction, and drying. According to Turk, failure to act will lead humanity towards a dystopian future.
The 2015 Paris Agreement, signed by 196 parties, set the goal of limiting global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, or preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius. However, current policies could contribute to a 2.8 degree increase by the end of the century, as projected by the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Despite the worrisome projections, Turk emphasized that there is still time to change the course and prevent a future marred by hunger and suffering for future generations. He called on the generation with the most powerful technology tools in history to use their power to bring about change.
Turk also criticized world leaders who engage in performative actions to address climate change but then prioritize short-term interests when faced with the potential impact on industries like fossil fuels, which often receive government subsidies. He called for an end to “greenwashing,” where companies deceive consumers by exaggerating the sustainability of their products or downplaying their environmental impact. Turk also expressed concern about individuals who deny climate science.
The warning comes as the United Nations Human Rights Council’s 53rd session concludes on July 14. The need for urgent and effective action to combat climate change and ensure food security for all remains a pressing global issue. Failure to meet climate targets and address the effects of climate change could have devastating consequences on the livelihoods and well-being of millions of people worldwide.
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