Climate change is no longer a distant projection; its effects are knocking on the door and Barcelona, like many other cities around the world, faces an uncertain future. Climate Center, a non-profit climate research entity, has launched a simulation that visualizes what Barcelona would look like underwater if global temperatures were to rise by 3 degrees Celsius.
The images, while shocking, serve as a stark reminder of the urgency of addressing the climate crisis.
The unprecedented drought in Catalonia and the extreme measures that have been taken to deal with it are tangible signs that climate change is already affecting the region. The warning that Catalonia could lose its beaches in the near future due to rising sea levels has also sounded an alarm bell.
Now, Climate Center’s simulation offers a graphic view of how the iconic city of Barcelona could transform if temperatures continue to rise.
The portrait of an imminent disaster: Barcelona under water
Climate Center projections paint a bleak picture for Barcelona. A Parc de la Ciutadella, one of the green lungs of the city, appears submerged underwater, with the monumental fountain barely visible.
The Cathedral, strategically built on Mons Taber, the mountain where Barcelona was born, partially resists the flood, but Plaça Nova and Via Laietana are completely flooded.
According to a recent UN report, the world is heading towards a 2.9 degree Celsius increase if the current trend is not reversed. This scenario would lead to a significant rise in sea level due to melting of the poles.
The images of submerged Barcelona, although they may seem distant today, could become a reality if effective measures are not taken.
COP28 in Dubai reminded of the need to take action
As COP28 takes place in Dubai, where political leaders from around the world gathered to address climate change, Climate Center’s simulation is a powerful reminder of the urgency of meaningful agreements and action.
Although awareness of climate change has grown, the implementation of effective measures still seems far from being achieved.
The Climate Center’s simulation does not just focus on Barcelona; it projects what various cities around the world would look like with a 3 degree Celsius increase in global temperatures. Sea level rise would affect some of the most important capitals, submerging emblematic areas and altering current life.
Against this backdrop, the importance of taking drastic measures to curb climate change is more evident than ever. Record emissions and accelerating sea level rise must be countered with global action and commitments.
