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This chapter examines the changes in the climate system and their impacts on natural and human systems, focusing on global warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. It further elaborates on the risks associated with warming levels of 1.5°C compared to 2°C. There is substantial evidence that even a 1.5°C increase could result in significant impacts, such as more frequent and intense heatwaves, marine heatwaves, and heavy precipitation.

Human-induced warming has prompted regional climate changes, such as hotter extremes and wetter conditions, affecting biodiversity and ecosystems. Reducing temperature increases to 1.5°C instead of 2°C is vital to avoid severe impacts like species loss, ocean acidification, and sea-level rise, which could increase flooding and decrease food security.

Limiting warming to 1.5°C is projected to substantially reduce the extent and impact of droughts, extreme weather events, and food loss. Climate risks will be lower at this level, improving adaptation capabilities of natural and human systems, like ecosystems and agriculture, along with socioeconomic sectors such as energy, health, and tourism.

Greater warming expands economic disparities and places small island states at high risk due to sea-level rise and resource scarcity. The chapter stresses the urgency of unprecedented global mitigation efforts to limit warming. It also discusses strategies such as carbon dioxide removal and land-use changes to achieve climate targets.

Many adaptation advantages exist at 1.5°C, including fewer species at risk of losing their habitat and more favorable outcomes for food security, water availability, and human health. Unique and threatened ecosystems, such as coral reefs, are less vulnerable at this warming level. In conclusion, containing global warming to 1.5°C instead of 2°C ultimately reduces risks and provides more room for effective adaptation strategies, crucial for the future sustainability of the planet and its populations.