UN warns of 3.1°C Global Warming by century’s end, urges action ahead of COP29

A United Nations report warns that the world is on track for a 3.1°C rise in global temperatures by the end of the century if countries stick to current environmental policies. To limit global warming to 1.5°C, emissions need to fall by 42% by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. For a 2°C rise, emissions must reduce by 28%. The report, titled “The Emissions Gap Report 2024: No More Hot Air…Please!” highlights the urgent need for stronger action before COP29, the global climate summit, to be held in Azerbaijan.

Limited progress from national emission targets

While many countries have pledged to reduce emissions through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), these commitments are insufficient. Even if fully implemented, current targets would only lower emissions by 10% by 2030, leading to around 2.6°C of warming. The report calls for drastic reductions, noting that global emissions have reached a record high in 2023 at 57.1 gigatons of carbon dioxide.

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G20 nations, responsible for 77% of global emissions, have not done enough to reduce their greenhouse gas outputs. Countries like the U.S. and China have much higher per capita emissions compared to nations like India and those in Africa. However, the report emphasizes that it’s still possible to close the emissions gap through the expansion of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, along with efforts to protect forests. These actions could significantly reduce emissions and help meet global climate targets.