Global Emission Cuts Fall Short of Paris Goals

Brief Context

Context The United Nations Synthesis Report has found that global emission reduction efforts are falling short of the targets set under the Paris Agreement (2015). Concerns raised by the Report The report is based on countries updated nationally determined contributions (NDC), which are promises to cut fossil fuel emissions or plant forests (to capture carbon dioxide) until 2035. The report is based on submissions from 64 out of 190 countries.

Source Content

Syllabus: GS3/ Environment

Context

• The United Nations Synthesis Report has found that global emission reduction efforts are falling short of the targets set under the Paris Agreement (2015). 

Concerns raised by the Report 

• The report is based on countries’ updated nationally determined contributions (NDC), which are promises to cut fossil fuel emissions or plant forests (to capture carbon dioxide) until 2035.
  • The report is based on submissions from 64 out of 190 countries. India is yet to submit its updated NDC, with its last submission made in August 2022.
• The Countries are on track to reduce emissions by only 17% of 2019 levels by 2035, far below the levels required to keep global warming within 1.5°C or even 2°C by the end of the century.
• However, to keep global temperature rise below 2°C and 1.5°C, countries must cut emissions by 37% and 57% of 2019 levels respectively by 2035.
• The Global Tipping Points Report 2025, highlights that the world is reaching its first climate tipping point, the widespread mortality of warm-water coral reefs.

Challenges in GHG Emission Reduction 

• Global Challenges: 
  • Industrial Resistance: European industries continue to lobby for relaxed emission norms.
  • Carbon Credit Dependence: Overreliance on foreign carbon credits risks shifting the burden of decarbonisation to developing nations.
  • Slow Transport Transition: The EU faces persistent emissions from the road transport sector due to the slow adoption of clean mobility technologies.
• India’s Heavy Dependence on Coal: Coal still fuels ~75% of Indian emissions.  Also, the steel industry is growing fast and still depends heavily on coal, which adds to the pollution problem.
• Climate Targets Need to Be Stronger: India has set climate goals (NDCs), but experts say they are not strong enough to limit global warming to 1.5°C. 
• Policy Gaps Remain: India is setting up a carbon market (where companies can trade the right to emit carbon), but it is still optional and not fully working yet. 

Way Ahead

• Enhance Global Ambition: Major emitters, especially G20 nations, must strengthen their NDCs ahead of COP30 to align with scientific pathways.
• Accelerate Renewable Transition: Expanding solar, wind, green hydrogen, and CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage) capacity should be prioritised.
• Strengthen Adaptation Measures: Build resilient infrastructure, improve disaster preparedness, and promote nature-based solutions.
• Mobilise Climate Finance: Developed nations must deliver on their $100 billion annual commitment and expand concessional finance for mitigation and adaptation.
• Encourage Behavioural Change: Promote sustainable lifestyles through initiatives such as Mission LiFE, focusing on reduced consumption and waste.

Concluding remarks

• The UN report serves as a wake-up call ahead of COP 30, urging countries to enhance their NDCs, mobilize climate finance, and accelerate adaptation efforts. 
• Without substantial progress, the Paris Agreement’s goals of 1.5°C and 2°C will remain out of reach, putting global ecosystems and communities at grave risk.

Source: TH