Climate of Uncertainty. Global Warming - a Health Risk

Abstract

The delicate balance of the Earth’s atmosphere facilitates a very special kind of order that has played a crucial role in the success of human societies for more than 10,000 years. However, industrialisation during the past two centuries has created an imbalance that signifi cantly increases the odds of this order being replaced by chaos. One immediate priority must be to prevent the worst predictions from becoming reality through mitigation measures. But with some effects already upon us – many of which could have profound implications for the human health –, it is crucial that we learn how we can better adapt to climate change as well. Otherwise, there could be devastating consequences from the chaos that ensues.