As the COP30 summit approaches, the United Nations has revealed that only 64 countries have submitted new carbon-cutting plans, despite an expectation for all nations to do so. This represents approximately 30% of global emissions. The combined pledges from these nations are insufficient to maintain the world’s temperature increase below the critical threshold of 1.5°C, a pivotal goal in climate change efforts.
Although some progress is noted in carbon emissions reduction over the next decade, predictions indicate that these reductions will not meet the necessary levels to prevent surpassing the 1.5°C limit. The UN’s findings underscore the significant challenges that world leaders face at the upcoming gathering in Belém, Brazil. Approaching a decade since the Paris Agreement, which mandated countries to deliver updated climate plans every five years, many nations have missed the deadline.
The report highlights upcoming commitments from major contributors such as China and the EU, made during Climate Week in New York. However, forecasts suggest that a global carbon dioxide emission decline of only about 10% by 2035 is expected. Experts indicate this level of reduction falls short of the 57% decline needed to stabilize temperatures below the critical threshold.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged the inevitability of temporarily exceeding the 1.5°C limit in the coming years. Despite these challenges, there is potential for newer pledges to emerge as nations convene for COP30, with experts suggesting that countries such as India and Indonesia might announce significant plans. Existing analyses indicate that global emissions may begin to decline in the near future, representing a crucial turning point in climate action efforts.
The implications of these developments raise questions regarding the effectiveness and urgency of international climate commitments, especially in the context of the pressing need for more aggressive action to combat climate change.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czdrv8m5v4lo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss