Scientists Warn That Climate “Tipping Points” Are Already Being Crossed Ahead of COP30

A new global study involving 160 climate scientists has raised alarm that Earth is hurtling into dangerous territory—critical climate tipping points, once considered distant threats, are now being crossed due to accelerating global warming. The findings come just weeks before the COP30 climate summit in Brazil, placing pressure on world leaders to act.

The report identifies ecosystems already showing signs of collapse. Coral reefs, in particular, are suffering mass “die-off” as marine heatwaves stress 84 percent of reefs globally, with recovery becoming unlikely unless temperatures fall greatly. Another tipping point at risk is the Amazon rainforest—which could shift into a savannah state if global warming exceeds 1.5 °C. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a major ocean current that helps regulate climate in Europe, is also flagged as increasingly vulnerable.

Scientists note that the planet has already warmed by 1.3–1.4 °C above preindustrial levels, and recent years are the warmest on record. Projections based on current policies suggest Earth could warm by 3.1 °C by century’s end—well beyond thresholds many ecosystems can withstand.

The researchers emphasize that not all hope is lost. Rapid expansion in renewable energy has already outpaced coal in global electricity generation in some regions, signaling possible pathways to reduce carbon emissions. But the window is closing fast, and they urge governments at COP30 to commit to deeper, faster emissions cuts, stronger conservation measures, and ecosystem restoration programs.