Scientists have issued a terrifying prediction as they warn 30million people could die of a brutal cause by as early as the year 2100.
The startling new study estimates mortality due to air pollution and extreme temperatures. The researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry concluded that climate change and air pollution could lead to approximately 30 million deaths by the end of the century. This follows a recent UN report that warns the Earth is on course for a “catastrophic” 3.1C increase in temperature by 2100.
The team carried out their research by analysing data from 2000 to 2090 in ten-year intervals, as reported by Mail Online. The study points out significant regional differences in climate-related deaths, with South and East Asia likely to suffer the most, partly because of their ageing populations and persistent air pollution issues.
In contrast, regions with higher incomes such as Western Europe, North America, Australasia, and the Asia Pacific are expected to see more deaths related to extreme temperatures than those caused by air pollution. This trend towards rising temperatures has already been observed in several countries within these areas, including the US, England, France, Japan, and New Zealand.
(Image: Getty)
Dr Andrea Pozzer, a group leader, provided alarming statistics, telling the Express: “In 2000, around 1.6 million people died each year due to extreme temperatures, both cold and heat. By the end of the century, in the most probable scenario, this figure climbs to 10.8 million, roughly a seven-fold increase.”
He continued by highlighting the impact on mortality rates from air pollution, saying: “For air pollution, annual deaths in 2000 were about 4.1 million. By the century’s close, this number rises to 19.5 million, a five-fold increase.”
Dr Pozzer emphasised the implications for climate action, saying: “Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a direct threat to public health.”
Echoing the urgency, Jean Sciare, director of the Climate and Atmosphere Research Center of The Cyprus Institute, commented: “These findings highlight the critical importance of implementing decisive mitigation measures now to prevent future loss of life.”
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