Thiruvananthapuram: As many as 300 million people would be at greater risk of malaria, vector-and water-borne diseases, said R.K. Suri, Additional Director, Union Ministry of Environment and Forests.
“The health costs of climate change are projected to double by 2020, partly as a result of heat stress, but primarily because of increased rate of diarrhoea and malnutrition in low-income countries,” he said at the global meet on ‘Climate Change: Issues and Concerns’ organised by Greentech Foundation
Mr. Suri said that ever since the industrial revolution began about 150 years ago, human activities had added significant quantities of greenhouse gases.
“The average global temperature has already risen by 0.74° C in 2005 compared to 100 years ago. Scientists attribute most of this temperature rise to human activities which release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere,” he said.
‘Irreversible change’
Citing recent studies, he said, “an average global warming of 2 degree centigrade or above, compared to the pre-industrial revolution-level, would result in dangerous and irreversible changes, including water shortage and food insecurity.”
Mr. Suri listed things one could do to counter climate change. “Use efficient lighting, energy-efficient electric appliances, drive less, check tyres, use water carefully, reduce use of plastic, move air-conditioning thermostat up two degrees, use renewable energy, reuse and recycle, and plant more trees.”
The three-day meet concluded on Monday evening with presentation of awards.
