The urgency surrounding climate change has intensified, with the latest UN report denoting alarming growth in greenhouse gas emissions from the world’s top emitters, particularly China and India. Emissions surged by 5.2% and 6.1% respectively in 2023, contributing to a global increase of 1.3%. This trajectory poses threats to the targets set by the Paris Agreement, particularly the critical thresholds of 1.5°C and 2°C.
The Emissions Gap Report
The Emissions Gap Report, released annually by the UN Environment Programme, puts stress on the disparity between current emission reduction commitments and the levels required to avert catastrophic climate change. To maintain the 1.5°C target, a staggering 42% reduction in emissions from 2019 levels is necessary by 2030. However, even in the most optimistic scenarios, current plans may only achieve a 10% reduction.
Investment in Climate Action
The report advocates for a substantial increase in investment aimed at reducing emissions. It estimates that at a cost of approximately US$200 per ton of CO2 equivalent, around 31 billion tonnes of CO2 could be mitigated by 2030. This figure exceeds the nearly 28 billion tonnes needed to stay on track for the 1.5°C goal, emphasising the financial feasibility of aggressive climate action.
Urgent Call for Action
The report calls for immediate and decisive action to reverse the upward trend in emissions. A reduction of at least 7.5% annually until 2035 is essential to keep the 1.5°C target viable. As nations prepare for the upcoming climate conference in Baku, discussions will centre on mobilising financial resources for more robust climate initiatives.
Political Inaction and Its Consequences
Political inertia remains a critical barrier to effective climate action. Activists warn that the continued reliance on fossil fuels exacerbates the climate crisis, pushing the planet closer to irreversible damage. The findings of the Emissions Gap Report serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of inaction, urging nations to adopt more ambitious climate policies.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the Emissions Gap Report in shaping global climate policy.
- What measures can countries take to bridge the emissions gap by 2030?
- Analyse the economic implications of investing in emissions reduction strategies.
- Evaluate the role of political will in achieving climate targets set by international agreements.
- How can nations effectively mobilise financial resources for climate action?
