Many models of climate-driven extinctions are criticised for being theoretical, but new hard data lends them weight.

Predictions that climate change alone could lead to the extinction of more than one-fifth of plant and animal species before the end of the century have often come under fire, and not just from climate-change deniers. Some biologists are sceptical because the predictions are largely based on theoretical models.

Claims that a cold snap disproves climate change are dangerous nonsense, says Michael Le Page.

What's going to happen over the next decade? New Scientist looks at the latest forecasts - and how reliable they are.