By The European Times | Created at 2026-10-02 08:42:03 | Updated at 2026-10-03 14:46:32
1 day ago
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has welcomed a declaration adopted on September 24 that emphasizes climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and resilience-building through improved data, risk assessments, and early warning systems.
The declaration acknowledges the role of specialized UN agencies, including the WMO, in coordinating scientific data related to sea-level rise.
According to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, approximately 770 million people—nearly one-tenth of humanity—live less than five meters above the high-tide line. Without significant adaptation, risks to coastal cities and communities are expected to increase substantially by 2100.
Sea-level rise is one of the key climate indicators monitored by the WMO. Ocean warming and ice melt are the primary drivers of this long-term process. According to the WMO’s “State of the Global Climate 2025” report, the average global sea level at the end of 2025 was about 11 cm higher than in January 1993.
The declaration calls for improved data collection and sharing, as well as the strengthening of global ocean and sea-level monitoring systems. The WMO indicates that assessing these changes requires long-term observations using tide gauges, satellites, and ocean measurements, as well as monitoring changes in ice and land. The organization also notes significant data gaps, particularly regarding the oceans, Small Island Developing States, and other vulnerable coastal regions.
The declaration emphasizes the need for investment, early warning systems, and the integration of risk assessments into planning and decision-making.
Illustrative photo: pexels-ahmed-shan-3258660-4890167
