The biggest issue facing the world today is climate change.
The most frequent association with climate change is rising sea levels due to melting polar ice caps. This has lead to talks about how coastal areas could suffer in coming years. But it's not just those by the sea who need to fear global warming.
A new scientific study by Crowther Lab has revealed that London's average annual temperature will increase 2.1 degrees celsius by 2050. The warmest month of the year will increase by 5.9 degrees. To put that into perspective, London's annual climate will resemble Barcelona's today.
Now, this might sound like some balmy dream. Deeper tans. Rooftop bars and outdoor swimming all year round, rather than three solitary months. But a new climate will bring considerable challenges to London.
One such challenge is droughts. In 2008, Barcelona suffered a drought so serious, it had to spend $22 million on importing drinking water.
Crowther Lab's study is one of many attempts from scientists to make policymakers face the reality of global warming. Our current mayor seems serious about tackling the issue, although we're now up against the clock. Time will tell if we've done enough.
