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Until now, the common goal has been to keep warming to less than two degrees above pre-industrial levels.

So why is there sudden momentum for this more ambitious target? And what is the real world difference between 1.5  and 2 degrees?

The 1.5 degree goal has been the focus of a long-term push by small island states and least-developed African nations – the most vulnerable countries to climate change due to their geography and economic position.

A recent review by the UN climate body found that when temperatures do rise above 1.5 degrees, polar regions, high mountains, tropics and low-lying coastal regions will be most in the gun. In Africa, the ability to grow food will be hit, particularly for the sub-Sahara..

What needs to be done to get there?

This is the problem: the 2 degree goal is hard enough. The scientific models show 1.5 degrees is almost impossible.

Global emissions remainhigh, and the world has already warmed by one degree since industrial times. Glen Peters, a senior researcher with Oslo-based organisation CEIRCO, says at current rate of emissions the world will have produced enough carbon dioxide by 2020 to lock in 1.5 degrees warming.

And even if sharp cuts to emissions are made, there is a kicker. Temperatures would almost certainly first go over the threshold, meaning technology to draw carbon from the atmosphere will be needed to help cool the planet and bring it under 1.5 degrees……

If there are two targets in any Paris agreement, would having 1.5 degrees mean anything?

Its inclusion in the text would ensure the more ambitious target is considered alongside two degrees in any official reviews or assessments by the UN. And coupled with strong measures to encourage countries to cut emissions faster, those in favour say it could drive greater climate ambition.

For vulnerable countries, it could help them set a legal threshold to trigger a form of compensation – called loss and damage – to help them recover from climate change driven natural disasters. Loss and damage is another of the moving elements at the Paris talks.

Ultimately is 1.5 degrees scientifically realistic?

Let’s give the final word to Peters, who suggests: “Take a cold shower”. http://www.smh.com.au/environment/un-climate-conference/paris-un-climate-conference-2015-is-it-possible-to-keep-global-warming-below-15-degrees-20151209-gljtzu.html#ixzz3u4Qn6qB6