A recently published report by an international team of climatologists issues a serious warning regarding the state of Earth's vital signs. The report, compiled by scientists such as William Ripple and Christopher Wolf, along with 10 other experts, highlights a disturbing deterioration of these vital signs to unprecedented levels in human history.

Published in the journal BioScience, the report underscores that 20 out of 35 planetary vital signs crucial for monitoring climate change have reached record-breaking extremes. The authors of the report sound the alarm that the year 2023 may bring many new climate records, including in the areas of ocean temperatures and sea ice. Additionally, the report points out the unprecedented carbon dioxide emissions resulting from wildfires in Canada.

The report is a continuation of a warning issued four years ago by global scientists, signed by over 15,000 experts from 161 countries. William Ripple, the lead author, warns of the potential collapse of natural and socio-economic systems if immediate actions are not taken.

Climate scientists raise particular concern over the increased subsidies for fossil fuels, which doubled in the years 2021–2022, surpassing $1 trillion. Equally alarming are the data on forest fires in Canada in 2023, which emitted more carbon dioxide than the entire greenhouse gas emissions in Canada in 2021. The report also notes an increase in average global temperatures, with predictions that 38 days in 2023 will exceed the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold.

The authors emphasize the need to develop policies prioritizing human well-being, addressing the issues of excessive consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions among the wealthy. Recommendations include phasing out subsidies for fossil fuels, promoting plant-based diets, protecting forests, and implementing international treaties limiting fossil fuel consumption. They also stress that climate actions should be based on principles of equality and social justice.

The report concludes with a call to action, highlighting the moral responsibility of scientists and institutions in disseminating climate facts and formulating policy recommendations. According to the authors, scientists must play a leading role in combating existential threats and warning humanity of the urgent need for change.