Mark Lynas warns that nuclear war could be a greater threat than climate change, capable of ending human civilization and destroying the biosphere in a flash. His research reveals that around 4,000 nuclear weapons are ready for potential launch, which, if used, would trigger a nuclear winter—blocking sunlight, halting photosynthesis, and leading to catastrophic conditions. Unlike climate change, there are no preparedness options for nuclear war, making its risks immediate and overwhelming. Lynas's focus shifted following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, deepening his understanding of the potential fallout from nuclear conflict.
Lynas stated, 'Nuclear winter will kill virtually the entire human population. And there's nothing you can do to prepare, and there's nothing you can do to adapt when it happens.'
He emphasized that the consequences of nuclear war far surpass those of climate breakdown, making it a 'vastly more catastrophic, existential risk than climate change.'
Reflecting on his research findings, Lynas said, 'What emerged from my research was far more horrifying…there's no adaptation options for nuclear war.'
In his new book, Lynas argues that 'about 4,000 nuclear weapons are poised for a first strike across the northern hemisphere,' indicating the imminent danger.
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