Latest Science Makes Clear We Must Cut Carbon Pollution Now

WASHINGTON (September 27, 2013) –  It’s more certain than ever that pollution from burning fossil fuels is changing our climate in ways that contribute to rising seas, stronger storms, hotter days and more extreme weather, an international panel of scientists reported today.

The fifth scientific report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change shows that our climate is changing, from the poles to the equator. We must act now to reduce carbon pollution to avoid catastrophic damages to millions of people, their livelihoods and their health.

Frances Beinecke, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council, issued this statement in response to the IPCC findings:

“This is a warning bell to the world: Climate change is here and it’s time to stop the dangerous carbon pollution from power plants - now. This pollution drives climate changes we’re seeing today. Fierce wildfires, drought, floods and storms will only get worse with delay, and they’ll harm our economy and our health.

“The science is clear: We are altering the climate. That must be corrected. President Obama’s common-sense climate action plan will help. His administration is setting limits on carbon pollution from new power plants. That’s a critical step to fulfilling our obligation to protect our children from climate change.”