July 2023 - The hottest month ever!

Melting Glaciers - Photo by Roxanne Desgagnés

As we reflect on the recent events, we are deeply concerned that July 2023 has been officially confirmed as the hottest month on record. The alarming rise in global temperatures is a stark reminder that climate change is an ongoing crisis that demands immediate action.

Mentioned below are some points to better understand the gravity of this situation:

1. Record-Breaking Temperatures: July 2023 surpassed all previous records, with average temperatures reaching an unprecedented level worldwide. This is not just a random weather anomaly; it's a clear sign of the warming trend our planet has been experiencing over the years.

• Spain

Figueres (Catalonia), 45.4 °C on 18 July (provisional all-time maximum temperature for Catalonia, previous was 43.7 °C in Alcarràs/Lleida).

Malaga/Airport, 44.2 °C on 19 July (tied to previous all-time maximum temperature on 18 July 1978, records since 1942)

Toledo, 26.4 °C, new all-time highest minimum temperature on 19 July (previous 25.8 °C in July 2010)

Valencia/Airport, 27.5 °C, new all-time highest minimum temperature on 19 July (previous 27.1 °C on 27 July 2022)

• France

Tiranges (Haute-Loire, 603m), 40.6 °C (previous: 40.2 °C, 07 Jul 2015, records since 01 Jan 1983)

Serralongue (Eastern Pyrenees, 700m), 40.4 °C (previous: 37.0 °C, 22 Aug 2012, records since 01 Aug 1985).

Mandelieu la Napoule, 39.4 °C, new all-time highest temperature on 19 July (previous 39.2 °C on 06 August 2017).

Cannes, 39.1 °C, new all-time highest temperature on 19 July (previous 38.3 °C on 06 August 2017).

Renno (Corsica, 755m), 38.3 °C (previous: 37.2°C, 01 Aug 2017, records since 01 June 1993).

Avrieux (Savoie, 1104m), 36.0°C (previous: 35.6 °C, 11 Jul 2023, records since 01 Oct 1948).

Alpe d'Huez (Isère, 1860m), 29.5 °C (previous:29.4 °C, 07 Jul 2015, records since 01 Jan 1989).

• Italy

Licata (Sicily), 46.3 °C, on 18 July

Riesi (Sicily), 45.8 °C, on 18 July

Decimomannu (Sardinia), 45.9 °C, on 19 July

In Austria, the Sonnblick Observatorium at 3109m recorded 15.7 °C on 11 July, the highest temperature since the start of records in 1886 (previous record was 15.3 °C on 30 June 2012).

The heat is forecast to continue in the next days in central and eastern Mediterranean basin countries. National meteorological and hydrological services of France, Italy, Greece, Bosnia Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, North-Macedonia, Serbia issued orange and red alerts for high-temperatures on 20 and 21 July. The weekly forecast suggests above-normal temperatures higher than 3 °C during next week mainly in parts of eastern Mediterranean and northern Africa.

Showing worldwide average air temperatures since 1979. Last updated 23rd July 2023

2. Extreme Weather Events: The consequences of these rising temperatures are evident in the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, and intense storms have become more frequent, affecting communities, ecosystems, and economies.

3. Melting Ice Caps and Rising Sea Levels: The escalating temperatures have accelerated the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, contributing to the rise in sea levels. Coastal communities are facing significant risks, and entire island nations are at the brink of displacement.

4. Impact on Biodiversity: Climate change is causing shifts in ecosystems, leading to disruptions in wildlife and plant species' habitats. Many species are struggling to adapt, and some may face extinction, further compromising the delicate balance of our planet's biodiversity.

Now, it's crucial that we take immediate and collective action to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Combatting climate change requires collective efforts from individuals, communities, businesses, and governments. While the scale of the challenge may seem daunting, there are several actionable steps that everyone can take to make a positive impact on the environment. At CO2exist, we believe in leading by example, and we encourage all individuals and organisations to join hands in combating this global challenge. Here are some steps we can take:

1. Promote Sustainable practices: Encourage sustainable practices within your organisation and community. This could include reducing waste, promoting energy efficiency, and adopting circular economy principles. Contact us to avail our consultancy services to help you and your organisation #PlanGreen

2. Transition to Renewable Energy: Embrace renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Investing in clean energy will not only help combat climate change but also create new jobs and boost our economy. We know this transition can seem like a daunting task, let us help you in to make this positive change.

3. Support Reforestation Efforts: Trees act as carbon sinks absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. CO2Exist can guide you in Supporting reforestation projects and participating in tree-planting initiatives can help mitigate the impact of carbon emissions.

4. Advocate for Climate Policies: Engage with policymakers and advocate for ambitious climate policies at local, national, and international levels. Support legislation that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and invest in climate-resilient infrastructure.

5. Raise Awareness: Education is a powerful tool. Use your platform to raise awareness about climate change, its consequences, and the actions we can take to address it. Join us at CO2Exist to encourage discussions and knowledge-sharing to inspire positive change.

As we collectively take these steps, we can make a significant impact on combatting climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. The time to act is now, and we must act together.

At CO2exist, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint, engaging in sustainable practices, and promoting eco-friendly solutions. We invite you all to join us on this journey to create a greener and healthier planet.

Together, we can make a difference.

Sources: World Meteorological Organisation, NOA, Climate Change Institute, University of Maine