Environment facts It is estimated that at the current rate of deforestation, some two to eight precent of the Earth's species will disappear over the next 25 years.* The level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is now 30% above the pre-industrial level.* Globally, energy use is responsible for about 65% of greenhouse gas emissions. Providing sustainable energy will simultaneously reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce poverty. Climate change models predict sea levels will rise between 15 and 95 cm by the year 2100, with a 'best' estimate of 50 cm. Consequently flooding and coastal erosion will worsen. * From United Nations Environment Programme website http://www.uneptie.org/ Contents Case Studies Background Australian response to the environment in development The global agenda Other useful resources More links   © Commonwealth of Australia