The year 2024 has been recorded as the warmest in the 175-year history of global temperature records, with average temperatures exceeding pre-industrial levels by more than 1.5°C, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
Scientists warn that climate change is driving global temperatures and environmental damage to unprecedented levels, with vulnerable nations like Bangladesh bearing the brunt of its impacts. The "State of the Global Climate Report," released by the WMO on Wednesday, paints a grim picture of the global climate crisis.
Bangladeshi climate experts have expressed deep concern over the findings, emphasising that the extreme climate events of 2023-24 will have long-lasting effects on the country. They stress the urgent need for robust climate policies to mitigate further damage and protect the nation's people and ecosystems.
Dr Atiq Rahman, Executive Director of the Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies, said, "Despite contributing minimally to global emissions, Bangladesh is bearing the brunt of climate change. We are not receiving adequate global compensation for the losses we endure." Dr Rahman called for a shift from polluting fossil fuels to cleaner energy alternatives, emphasising the need for a homegrown climate strategy to safeguard the nation's future.
Meteorologist Abul Kalam Mallik urged Bangladesh to prioritise afforestation, water source conservation, and carbon emission reduction. "We must reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and adopt an integrated national policy to address climate-related issues," he said.
The WMO report, released ahead of World Glacier Day (21 March), World Water Day (22 March), and World Meteorological Day (23 March), underscores the devastating consequences of the climate crisis.
In 2024, a record number of natural disasters linked to extreme weather events-such as cyclones, typhoons, and heatwaves-were documented. These disasters resulted in the highest number of displacements in 16 years, exacerbating food crises and causing massive economic losses worldwide.
