A report published on Tuesday by the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change says the European Union must urgently intensify and better coordinate its preparations for escalating climate-related risks.

“Weather- and climate-related extreme events are already causing severe losses across Europe,” said Ottmar Edenhofer, chair of the advisory board.

“Extreme heat alone has resulted in tens of thousands of premature deaths in recent years.”

Mr Edenhofer said that in addition to environmental damage, climate-related disasters were causing substantial economic losses, averaging around 45 billion euros (53.3 billion) annually.

He said the Copenhagen-based body warned that risks are likely to intensify, noting that Europe is warming at roughly twice the global average rate.

It added that the impacts are already being felt across all regions of the bloc.

While reducing greenhouse gas emissions remains essential, the board stressed that adapting to climate change is equally critical.

Among its recommendations, the advisory board called for mandatory and harmonised climate risk assessments across EU institutions and member states.

It also urged the adoption of a clear “vision for a climate-resilient EU by 2050,” increased mobilisation of public and private investment, and the integration of climate risks into all areas of policymaking.

The report further advised that the EU should prepare for a range of future scenarios and establish continuous monitoring and evaluation of adaptation measures to strengthen long-term resilience. (dpa/NAN)