A recent study published in Nature Geoscience suggests that Earth may be heading towards its sixth mass extinction event. The research, led by Dr. Alexander Farnsworth from the University of Bristol, proposes that a supercontinent called Pangea Ultima will form in the future, leading to extreme temperatures and climate change. This could potentially wipe out life on Earth as we know it.
The study suggests that the formation of Pangea Ultima would create a "triple whammy" effect, consisting of the continentality effect, a hotter sun, and increased CO2 levels in the atmosphere. This would lead to temperatures between 40-50 degrees Celsius, making it difficult for most life forms to survive.
The study also highlights the importance of addressing the current climate crisis, which is already having devastating effects on human health and well-being. Dr. Eunice Lo, a co-author of the study, emphasizes that reaching net-zero emissions as soon as possible is crucial to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change.