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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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Top Polluting Cities Revealed at COP29 Amid Growing Frustration Over Fossil Fuels

 

At the COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, new data has highlighted the world’s most polluting cities, sparking increased frustration over the persistent presence of fossil fuels. According to Climate Trace, a database co-founded by former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, cities in Asia and the United States are the largest emitters of greenhouse gases.

Shanghai tops the list, emitting 256 million metric tons of greenhouse gases annually, followed closely by Tokyo with 250 million metric tons. New York City and Houston also rank high, with emissions of 160 million and 150 million metric tons, respectively. These figures are staggering, considering that some of these cities’ emissions surpass those of entire countries like Colombia and Norway.

The data, which combines satellite and ground observations with artificial intelligence, underscores the urgent need for effective climate action. Activists and climate officials at the summit expressed their frustration with the slow progress in reducing fossil fuel use and the influence of fossil fuel companies on climate policies.

As the world grapples with the escalating climate crisis, the revelations at COP29 serve as a stark reminder of the critical need for global cooperation and decisive action to curb emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources.


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