The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) once again sounds the alarm. In its latest report, the international organization draws an alarming observation: countries’ current commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions will not be enough to avoid a climate catastrophe.
Climate goals that are moving dangerously further away
The report is unequivocal. The current trajectory of international commitments leads us straight towards a global temperature increase of 2.6°C this century. A figure which far exceeds the objectives set by the Paris Agreement, which aimed to limit warming to 1.5°C, or at worst to 2°C.
This difference of a few degrees might seem small, but the consequences would be disastrous. Experts warn that this level of warming would lead to an increase in extreme weather events, putting the lives of millions of people at risk.
Solutions exist, but time is running out
The report is not entirely pessimistic. UNEP experts emphasize that it is still technically possible to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. However, this requires much more ambitious and immediate actions.
Renewable energies represent an important part of the solution. Increased deployment of photovoltaic technologies and wind power could contribute to 27% of the emissions reductions needed by 2030, and up to 38% in 2035. Forest protection could represent around 20% of the reduction potential.
The crucial role of large emitters
The G20 countries, and particularly its largest emitters, must take their responsibilities. A recent study reveals that only 57 companies are responsible for 80% of global carbon dioxide emissions. A figure which underlines the urgency of coordinated action at the international level.
COP30, a decisive meeting
All eyes are now turning towards COP30, which will be held in Brazil next year. UN member countries will have to present their new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). These commitments will have to be significantly more ambitious than the previous ones to hope to keep warming below 2°C.
A call for collective action
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, emphasizes the importance of each fraction of a degree avoided. Every tenth of a degree represents lives saved, economies preserved, damage avoided and biodiversity conserved.
International collaboration, government commitments and financial contributions will be essential to get back on the right trajectory. The message is clear: without immediate and coordinated action, the consequences of climate change will quickly spiral out of control.
- Global temperature could rise by 2.6°C by end of century
- Renewable energy could reduce emissions by 38% by 2035
- 57 companies are responsible for 80% of global CO2 emissions
