Europe is experiencing the fastest rate of warming among continents, with temperatures rising at double the global average, according to a joint report by the World Meteorological Organization and Copernicus, the EU's climate agency. The report highlights the urgent need for targeted strategies to combat the effects of climate change on human health, glaciers, and economic activities.
Last year, Europe generated 43% of its electricity from renewable sources, surpassing fossil fuels for the second consecutive year. The continent's temperatures are now 2.3 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, exceeding the global average of 1.3 degrees Celsius.
The report emphasizes the increasing frequency of extreme climate events in Europe, including heatwaves, wildfires, and glacier ice loss. High temperatures have led to a rise in heat-related deaths and significant economic losses, estimated at over 13.4 billion euros in 2023.
March marked the 10th consecutive month of record monthly temperatures, with sea-surface temperatures across Europe reaching unprecedented levels. The report underscores the need for immediate action to mitigate the impact of climate change and transition to renewable energy sources.
Despite the alarming trends, some regions in Europe, such as Scandinavia and Iceland, experienced below-average temperatures. However, the overall warming trend poses a significant challenge that requires collective efforts to address.
