States, climate change and tripartite human rights: The missing link

Abstract

Relevant scientific evidence demonstrates that anthropogenic GHG emissions almost certainly have an impact on climate change (general causation). Currently, GHGs are estimated at 430 ppm C0₂e, approximately doubling pre-industrial concentrations. In order to contain temperature increase within the sustainable threshold of no more than 2° Celsius, GHGs must be stabilised between 450 and 550 ppm, halving current emissions by 2050. Higher atmospheric temperatures would have negative environmental consequences, increasing phenomena such as rising sea level, droughts, floods, land degradation, and cyclones.