Scientists say the most extreme climate change predictions used in earlier global studies are now becoming less likely, although the world is still heading toward dangerous levels of warming.
A new set of climate projections suggests that cleaner energy growth has reduced the chances of the worst warming outcomes once feared by researchers.
At the same time, scientists warned that the world is also falling short of the most hopeful targets under the Paris Agreement.
Researchers said the planet is now expected to warm by around 3°C by the end of the century if current policies continue.
Earlier climate models had projected possible warming above 4°C, but experts say the rapid expansion of renewable energy such as solar and wind power has lowered those risks.
However, scientists stressed that global emissions remain high and are still driving severe climate impacts, including heatwaves, floods, droughts and rising sea levels.
According to researchers, the Earth is already about 1.3°C warmer than pre-industrial levels.
Climate experts warned that even small increases in temperature could worsen water shortages, biodiversity loss and extreme weather around the world.
Scientists also cautioned that natural climate feedbacks, including carbon releases from oceans and melting permafrost, could further accelerate warming in the future.
