Hollow climate promise

Global emissions hit a record high, risking 3.1°C warming and jeopardizing climate stability, as nations falter.

When nations signed the Paris Agreement in 2015, they committed to holding global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, recognising that exceeding this threshold could lead to irreversible environmental, social and economic damage. Yet, according to the recent UN Emissions Gap Report, we are on a path toward a devastating 3.1°C of warming by the century's end. The consequences of this failure to act meaningfully on climate pledges threaten the foundation of global climate policy and the stability of ecosystems and human communities worldwide.

Global emissions reached an all-time high of 57.1 gigatonnes of CO? equivalent between 2022 and 2023, marking an increase of 1.3% over the previous year. These findings reflect both a staggering disconnect between current national commitments and the cuts required to meet the Paris targets. In fact, the report indicates that, even if all existing commitments are met, global warming will likely surpass 2.6-2.8°C by 2100 - far above the safe limit set by the Paris Agreement. Yet, G20 nations, responsible for the bulk of global emissions, are still far from meeting their targets. This failure stems from a lack of ambition coupled with political resistance. Another factor is insufficient funding for climate initiatives, especially in developing countries where resources for adaptation and mitigation are limited.

The upcoming COP29 summit in Azerbaijan offers a chance to strengthen global resolve, as nations prepare to review their emissions-cutting strategies. However, words alone will not lower emissions, nor will they safeguard vulnerable nations from climate destruction. What is required is a fundamental shift in policy, prioritising a just transition away from fossil fuels and enforceable commitments from all nations - especially the largest emitters. This moment demands unprecedented cooperation.