‘All human life will be wiped out in 20 years’ says professor set to talk in York

An American professor who believes that irreversible climate change will end all human life on the planet by the 2030s is to speak in York.

Guy McPherson is professor emeritus of natural resources and ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Arizona.

He says that global warming is already out of control and accelerating – and will lead to mass extinction, including that of humanity, within a generation.

Currently on a European tour – Abrupt climate change and pursuing a life of excellence – his only date in the north of England is at the Priory Street Centre in York on Thursday (April 9).

John Cossham, the organiser of the York event, said Prof McPherson will explain some of the latest research on the increasing number of climatic feedback mechanisms that are coming into play.

Then there will be a question and answer session and discussion.

What Prof McPherson believes

In his 2013 book, Going Dark Prof McPherson wrote that he previously believed “complete collapse of the world’s industrial economy” would reduce global warming and “allow our species to persist a few more generations”.

But there is a positive element to his talk in York. John Cossham said Prof McPherson’s vision of ‘living a life of excellence’ “incorporates much that’s good about being human, about our potential to enrich each others lives, to enjoy what’s wonderful about being alive”.

John added:

John said he recognised that people will be troubled by the idea scientists have evidence that humanity may be made extinct within their lifetimes.

“We have made plans to offer support directly after the talk, and in a separate meeting one week afterwards,” he said.