Climate remains today an extraordinarily complex area of scientific study. The risks to society and ecosystems from increases in CO₂ emissions could prove to be significant — so despite the areas of uncertainty that do exist, it is prudent to develop and implement strategies that address the risks, keeping in mind the central importance of energy to the economies of the world. —Exxon

The scientific evidence is now overwhelming: climate change is a serious global threat, and it demands an urgent global response.... Our actions now and over the coming decades could create risks of major disruption to economic and social activity, on a scale similar to those associated with the great wars and the economic depression of the first half of the 20th century. And it will be difficult or impossible to reverse these changes. So prompt and strong action is clearly warranted.