6.1

6.1
Mark Lynas is the author of Six Degrees. In his book, he describes what will happen when the world’s temperatures increase by six degrees. Even a one-degree change has a huge impact.

“Most of the world’s coral reefs will disappear. They will die. With a two-degree increase, we will see further big changes. For example, polar ice caps will melt faster, and this will cause sea levels to rise. At three degrees, much of the world will experience increased drought. According to some computer models, parts of the Amazon could become extremely dry. It would then take just one fire to burn down much of the Amazon.”

After just a three-degree increase, the results are frightening. But Mark says there are solutions.

“For example, we need to decrease our use of coal, oil, and natural gas. But of course, we need to get our energy from somewhere.”

How does Mark feel about solar and wind energy?

“These are important, but I also think we should use nuclear power. Without it, I believe the fight against global warming will be almost lost.”

And finally, Mark has one last suggestion.

“I actually believe we need to produce more genetically modified food. They can help feed millions of people because the new GM crops can be drought and heat tolerant.”