On Wednesday 17 May 2023, new findings from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) indicated that the key 1.5C temperature threshold could be breached for the first time by 2027. Whilst unlikely to be on a permanent basis, the UN agency has made clear that this would be an entry into 'uncharted territory'.
RIBA President Simon Allford said:
"This worrying development signals a global failure to adequately address the climate emergency.
The UK Government must ramp up its own response. Beyond existing policies aimed at reducing emissions, adapting the built environment to address the harmful realities of a warmer world will be critical. For too long, this has fallen through the cracks.
Construction has a huge role to play - architects are an essential part of the solution, and our expertise must be utilised. The sector will need to implement a range of retrofit measures to embed flood resilience and reduce overheating in existing and new buildings through passive design.
This warning must not be ignored. The Government must fulfil its duty to help protect communities. Otherwise, tomorrow’s generations will pay the price of today’s inaction."
Find out about RIBA's climate action.
Notes to editors:
- Media contact: Ruby.OShea@riba.org
- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates.
- The World Meteorological Organisation published their report on 17 May 2023: Global temperatures set to reach new records in next five years
