How Climate Change Affects Animals, Animal Charity Evaluators

Earth was hotter than ever in 2023—about 1.45ºC (2.61ºF) warmer than the pre-industrial average. The year also broke records for ocean heat, greenhouse gas levels, sea level rise, glacier retreat, and Antarctic sea ice loss.¹ What do these alarming climate change indicators imply for animals’ lives and wellbeing? Here, we’ll explore the impacts of climate change on the world’s animals, considering the negative outcomes faced by species and the urgent need for action to safeguard their future.