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30 Nov 2009 12:48:57
A leading environmental scientist
and campaigner at the University of Bedfordshire has issued a stark warning on the eve of
next week’s Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen.
Professor James Crabbe, Dean of the Faculty of Creative Arts, Technologies and Science (CATS), believes that unless urgent action is taken now, it could mean the end for his beloved coral reefs, those who depend on them for survival - and ultimately mankind.
With predictions that there will be at least a three and half degree temperature increase overall by the end of the 21st century, Professor Crabbe knows coral reefs are under intense threat.
He said: “If that happens, it will mean the end for coral reefs as they won’t be able to adapt in time. The problem is that it could herald the next and sixth mass extinction event on the planet. The planet will survive, but many species, probably including man, will not.”
World leaders have the opportunity to address important environmental issues and concerns when they meet in the Danish capital from 7-18 December.
Professor Crabbe’s research in Jamaica and on the Belize barrier reef has addressed impact levels on coral reefs from climate-driven bleaching and storm events, all supported by Earthwatch. This is an international non-profit organisation, founded in the early 1970s in America, which promotes research, action and understanding necessary to sustain the natural environment
His latest paper ‘Modelling effects of geoengineering options in response to climate change and global warming: Implications for coral reefs’ is due to be published in December, when the world leaders are gathering in Copenhagen.
He was one of 23 scientists from around the world invited to a meeting at the Royal Society in July, co-chaired by Sir David Attenborough, to produce a statement for Copenhagen arguing for a reduction in carbon dioxide levels below 350 ppm.
Professor Crabbe said: “That statement has been signed by many scientists but at that meeting it was clear to me that such a reduction was not realistic in the time scale – an increase of two degrees centigrade will see most of our reefs disappear. So I looked at geoengineering options for the active removal of carbon dioxide, and how they would influence coral reefs.”
There are two categories of geoengineering – shortwave solar radiation management and Professor Crabbe’s preferred method of longwave carbon dioxide removal.
Professor Crabbe outlined what he hopes will happen in Copenhagen to help protect our coral reefs - and mankind’s future.
He said: “I hope there will be a binding agreement to limit carbon dioxide emissions so that levels were lowered to 350 ppm or below, and commitment of resources to research viable and safe ways to remove carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.
“Currently we are on course to lose not only coral reefs but also other critically important parts of the biosphere.”
Latest news» 2009» November» Change is needed to save the world
