Several countries came forth with new climate plans and announcements at today's UN High-Level Event on Climate Action. These lay out emissions targets through 2035 — a critical waypoint on the path to net zero by mid-century.
Yet while many countries have leveled up their ambition compared to previous climate commitments, the targets announced to date fall far short of what’s needed to stay within critical warming thresholds.
Following is an excerpt from a statement by WRI President & CEO Ani Dasgupta:
“We cannot sugarcoat it: These new climate plans do not put us anywhere near on track for a safe future. The lack of ambition from most major emitters so far, barring a few, underscores the immense political challenge countries face of transforming their entire economy. Yet vulnerable countries continue to step up with bold climate leadership.
“By 2035, the world needs to cut 31.2 gigatons of emissions to stay on track for 1.5 degrees C, or 20.2 Gt for 2 degrees C. The NDCs and announcements so far would reduce that by just 2 gigatons — only 6% of what’s needed for 1.5 degrees C and 10% for 2 degrees C.
“The stakes could not be higher... By COP30, all countries must present a clear response and double down on solutions within our grasp to cut emissions and build adequate resilience.”
