GTZ is now GIZ - Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit
Since 1 January 2011, GIZ has brought together under one roof the long-standing expertise of DED, GTZ and Inwent. For further information, go to www.giz.de.
Since 1 January 2011, GIZ has brought together under one roof the long-standing expertise of DED, GTZ and Inwent. For further information, go to www.giz.de.
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Background – Global climate change
There is ample scientific evidence that human activity is affecting the global climate. Above all, the rise in emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas which is released by the burning of fossil fuels, is a key driver of climate change. Around 36 billion tonnes of CO2 are emitted into the atmosphere every year. The concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is now at its highest level for around 400,000 years, and is far higher than before the Industrial Revolution, which occurred only 200 years ago. And no wonder: there has been a sevenfold increase in the world’s population since then! But carbon dioxide is not the only gas that we should be concerned about. Other greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrous oxide, which are emitted by industry and agriculture, also contribute to climate warming. Catastrophic impacts Despite the adoption of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, in which the international community pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions, these emissions are still rising. Climate scientists warn that globally averaged surface temperatures could increase by as much as 5.8°C by the end of this century and that sea levels could rise by up to 60 cm. Melting glaciers, flooded coastal zones, desertification and crop failures are just some of the serious consequences. Already, we are witnessing an increase in extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall, hurricanes and prolonged periods of drought. And it is generally the poorest of the poor who suffer most. Assisting local communities Poor communities in developing countries are hit hardest by the adverse effects of climate change. Adaptation to climate change has become a necessity, so appropriate strategies and practical measures need to be developed. GIZ works with public authorities and other partners in order to provide support to local communities. 20 tonnes of CO2 per person Until now, the industrialised countries have been mainly responsible for producing the greenhouse gas emissions that drive human-induced (anthropogenic) global warming. While the average Indian produces around one tonne of CO2 emissions per year, a European produces around nine tonnes, while the average US citizen is responsible for 20 tonnes. However, the developing countries with buoyant economies are now producing a disproportionate share of greenhouse gas emissions. Prosperity, it seems, has adverse consequences and is creating new risks. 
Further information
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