UN Climate Report Warns of Closing Window to Limit Global Warming

September 9, 2023

A new report from UN Climate emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change, stating that the window of opportunity to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels is rapidly closing. The report, part of the Global Stocktake (GST) mandated by the Paris Agreement, highlights that while some progress has been made, countries are far from achieving the necessary targets to meet this goal.

The report estimates that, even with current climate actions, global greenhouse gas emissions in 2030 will be approximately 24 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide-equivalent higher than needed to keep the 1.5-degree target viable. The report underscores deficits in mitigation, adaptation, finance, technology, and capacity building efforts. The findings will inform the upcoming annual climate change meeting in Dubai.

What percentage reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions is required by 2030 to maintain the 1.5-degree Celsius target, according to the report?

The report indicates that reductions of approximately 43, 60, and 84 percent in global greenhouse gas emissions below the 2019 level are required by 2030, 2035, and 2050, respectively, to meet the 1.5-degree Celsius target.

What key areas of climate action does the report identify as lacking progress?

The report points out deficits in various aspects of climate action, including mitigation, adaptation, finance, technology, and capacity building.

What challenges have G20 countries faced in reaching consensus on climate change-related issues?

G20 countries have struggled to agree on climate change-related paragraphs in their joint communique, similar to the difficulties faced in the broader international climate conference involving over 190 countries. Decisions in these conferences must be reached by consensus, making agreement on climate action a significant challenge.

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