Obviously, we need to do just that. First, we need to reduce our global carbon emissions to zero as soon as possible.

Firstly, if we continue to produce carbon emissions at our current level, we are in danger of causing irrevocable and long-lasting changes to the climate system and sea levels. 

It has been predicted through climate modelling that unchecked emissions could result in the severe depletion of the polar ice caps and the Greenland ice sheet, causing the devastating inundation of coastal areas. Current sea level rises have already affected the population and resources of some low-lying Pacific islands.

Our global population is predicted to rise to nine billion by the end of the 21st century. To provide food for the vast numbers of humans on the planet will continue to be a challenge. This will be made increasingly more difficult if climate change is allowed to continue unchecked.

Research has linked changes in climate to the increase in severe weather events such as droughts, floods, cyclones, and bushfires which impede efforts to provide food.

One pleasing result of the UN Paris Climate Agreement in 2015 was that nearly every country including the two biggest polluters – China and the United States – agreed to take responsibility for addressing the problem. The agreement emphasised the importance of reaching a global peaking of emissions as soon as possible, and to undertake rapid reductions thereafter. The aim is for all countries to work together to achieve zero emissions by 2050. 

The more we progress to de carbonise how we live, the more obvious the benefits of a cleaner carbon-free society will be. Already many are recognising the economic benefits and employment opportunities inherent in a fossil fuel free economy. 

There are severe consequences for not moving rapidly to zero emissions. There are also great opportunities for innovation, employment and a better society if we embrace the positives. Let's get on with it.