Taiwan Reports 2024 as Hottest Year on Record Amid Climate Crisis
Taiwan has declared 2024 as the hottest year on record, with an average temperature of 24.97°C. This event aligns with global patterns of record heat and extreme weather due to climate change, driving Taiwan to increase its greenhouse gas emissions reduction target to 30% by 2030. The year has witnessed significant natural disasters globally, resulting in substantial economic losses.
Taiwan has officially declared that 2024 has been the hottest year on record since the commencement of temperature measurements 127 years ago. This statement aligns with global trends of unprecedented temperature increases fueled by climate change, which have led to a series of natural disasters causing significant economic damage. As of the end of November, Taiwan’s average annual temperature has reached 24.97 degrees Celsius (76.95 degrees Fahrenheit), surpassing the previous high of 24.91 degrees Celsius set in 2020, according to the Central Weather Administration. However, officials caution that the next two months may experience relatively lower temperatures, along with potential extreme cold spells, notwithstanding the overarching global warming phenomenon.
To combat the escalating climate crisis, Taiwan announced an ambitious target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 30% relative to 2005 levels by the end of the decade. This represents a notable increase from their earlier commitment of a 25% reduction. Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming expressed confidence in achieving this new goal, attributing it to advancements in offshore wind power and renewable energy initiatives slated for 2025.
The United Nations also underscored that 2024 is on course to be the warmest year ever recorded, marking the culmination of a decade characterized by extreme heat. Global warming, primarily attributed to fossil fuel combustion, is not simply a matter of rising temperatures; it also results in heightened humidity and intensified rainfall, which contribute to more frequent and severe storms. The repercussions of these climatic changes are widespread, often violent, and increasingly costly, wreaking havoc on infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods.
The year has been marked by a series of catastrophic weather events, such as devastating floods in Spain and Kenya, a series of violent storms impacting the United States and the Philippines, and severe drought and wildfires throughout South America. In Taiwan specifically, one of the most powerful typhoons in years struck the island in October, causing widespread destruction, including uprooted trees and significant flooding and landslides. It is noteworthy that such a formidable typhoon typically does not occur this late in the year.
Insurance company Swiss Re has estimated that natural disasters worldwide incurred economic losses amounting to $310 billion in 2024, further emphasizing the urgent need for action on climate change and disaster preparedness.
The declaration by Taiwan regarding record-high temperatures in 2024 is a reflection of escalating global climate issues, characterized by increasing temperatures and extreme weather patterns. Climate change has resulted in more frequent and severe natural disasters, leading to significant economic impacts globally. Countries are compelled to reassess and enhance their environmental policies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the resulting climatic shifts. Taiwan’s proactive steps towards renewable energy and emission reductions illustrate efforts to combat this global crisis and reduce vulnerability to climate-related disasters.
In conclusion, Taiwan has reported 2024 as the hottest year on record, highlighting the urgent implications of climate change that resonate globally. With increasing average temperatures and extreme weather events, countries must reinforce their commitment to environmental sustainability. Taiwan’s initiative to enhance greenhouse gas reduction targets reflects a necessary and responsible approach to mitigate the impacts of climate change, demonstrating leadership in environmental stewardship amidst this global challenge.
Original Source: www.france24.com
