New Climate Model Warns of 7°C Global Warming by 2200 — Scientists Urge Urgent Action
A groundbreaking study from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) has raised new concerns about the long-term trajectory of global warming.
According to researchers, Earth’s average temperature could increase by up to 7°C (12.6°F) by the year 2200, even if carbon emissions are moderately reduced — a scenario that would lead to devastating environmental consequences.
The study highlights the potential for widespread crop failures, rising sea levels, and extreme heatwaves, all of which would significantly threaten global food security and increase the frequency of natural disasters such as droughts, wildfires, and flooding.
Using an advanced climate simulation model, the researchers factored in complex feedback loops, including those triggered by increased rainfall that leads to more wildfires — which in turn release additional carbon into the atmosphere.
The findings suggest that current emissions reduction strategies may not be sufficient unless global efforts are dramatically intensified.
The study also points to methane emissions from natural sources like wetlands and landfills as major contributors to accelerated warming, calling for stronger measures to limit both methane and carbon dioxide emissions.
Crucially, the researchers warn that only very low-emission pathways stand a chance of keeping global temperature rise below the 2°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement.
Without immediate and coordinated global action, the opportunity to meet that goal may soon be lost.
As the window for meaningful intervention narrows, the message from scientists is clear: the time for bold climate policy is now.
