World Resource institute
WRI is a global research organization that spans more than 50 countries, with offices in the United States, China, India, Brazil, Indonesia and more. Our more than 700 experts and staff work closely with leaders to turn big ideas into action to sustain our natural resources—the foundation of economic opportunity and human well-being. Our work focuses on seven critical issues at the intersection of environment and development: climate, energy, food, forests, water, cities and the ocean.
Strategic Intelligence
Scientists have long warned that the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere should remain below 450 parts per million, to avoid potentially catastrophic climate change. In 2016, the hottest year on record, the concentration crossed 400 parts per million, and was increasing by about two parts per year. The Paris Agreement on climate change came into force that year, and aims to limit warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels by having countries voluntarily reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. In 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned of punishing environmental impact if emissions are not curtailed sufficiently to prevent even 1.5°C of warming.
This briefing is based on the views of a wide range of experts from the World Economic Forum’s Expert Network and is curated in partnership with Yale University.