The slippery slope of Climate Change

Carbon emissions are on the rise, natural feedback loops spiral downwards, and essential biodiversity targets remain elusive. Fossil fuel subsidies linger like unwanted houseguests, while GDP-driven models chase quick wins over sustainable gains. But the latest EASAC report highlights a troubling disconnect: political will lags behind the crisis. Despite much international attention, legal hurdles, deep-rooted corporate agendas, and fleeting political priorities remain key obstacles. Misinformation and greenwashing efforts stoke the flames of resistance to genuine action.

A shift to an increasingly inhospitable planet may already be underway.

“Atmospheric concentrations of CO2 are now passing those in the Pliocene warm period 3.3 million years ago, when temperatures were around 3 °C hotter and sea levels were 20 meters higher,” says Prof. Michael Norton, lead author of EASAC’s 2025 update of its 2020 Perspective on Transformative Change. “Atmospheric CO2 concentrations are continuing to rise and climate change accelerating, causing severe damage and loss of life. Despite substantial progress in green tech, we're still breaking the planet's boundaries, and a shift to an increasingly inhospitable planet may already be underway”.

Five Policy Actions for a Sustainable Future

EASAC supports international calls from IPBES and others to recognize the severe risks of climate inaction and to implement transformative changes such as: 

1. Rethink economic growth: Move beyond GDP-centric growth models toward sustainability-focused well-being indicators.

2. End harmful subsidies: Stop fossil fuel subsidies and ensure a just transition to clean energy.

3. Protect biodiversity: Enforce stricter regulations on habitat preservation and restoration.

4. Promote circular economy: Improve recycling and resource efficiency to increase circularity.

5. Base policies on facts: Prioritize scientific evidence over political expediency and special interests in decision-making. 

“The EU Green Deal is a step in the right direction - by giving priority to the well-being of its citizens and the planet overgrowth for its own sake”, explains Anders Wijkman, a former MEP and member of EASAC’s Environment Steering Panel. ”Now, some political groups are suggesting that the pace of transformation should be slowed down. This would be a major mistake. A half-hearted transition will never work. The clock is ticking, and the decisions we take now will steer the course of our planet’s future.”