The average rate of warming, from these emission scenarios, would probably be greater than any seen in the last 10,000 years. The temperature would continue to increase even after stabilisation of the greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere because of the thermal inertia of the oceans. By 2100, sea level is projected to rise by between 13 and 94cm. There is also the possibility that unusual weather events, such as severe storms, may become more frequent. Ecosystems, agriculture and forestry, and human health are sensitive to the climate.
Ecosystems provide many essentials including food, materials, medicines, energy and water resources.
Some ecosystems may be unable to adapt to climate change at an adequate rate. Agriculture and fisheries may also be disrupted, with the consequence of food shortages. This may be exacerbated by sea level rise causing widespread flooding. The range of diseases such as malaria could increase. At a more mundane level, demand for heating and for cooling will be changed.