World faces catastrophe unless energy use changes

UNLESS there is a seismic change in global energy usage the world is facing temperature increases of up to 6C by 2030 and catastrophic consequences for our climate, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned.

Greenhouse gas emissions must stabilise and temperature increases limited to 2C if we are to avoid severe weather conditions and sea-level rises, the global climate change think-tank has warned in its World Energy Outlook for 2009.

Published yesterday, the latest report estimates up to $10.5 trillion (€7tn) will have to be spent globally on low-carbon technology and energy efficiency if we are to avoid climate disaster. However, it also predicts global transport, building and industry energy costs will drop €8.6tn by 2030 if this investment is made.