Lowering the global warming ceiling means the world can burn only a fraction of existing fossil fuel reserves. But the chancellor is still supporting oil and gas

One of the biggest transformative signals that 195 governments sent to energy markets via the Paris agreement at the weekend was a goal for the global warming ceiling to be set well below 2C, and as low as 1.5C if possible. The scientific advice given to governments explains why. At 2C, coastal plains and island nations are submerged, food and clean water supplies shrivel, and social cohesion comes under threat as a consequence.

Related: Climate deal: the pistol has fired, so why aren’t we running? | Bill McKibben

Related: Climate change deal: five reasons to be glad, five to be gloomy

Continue reading…