Paris Agreement Targets Met

The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015 by 196 countries, aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The main goal is to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Five years later, how are we doing?

According to the United Nations, as of December 2020, 189 countries have submitted updated climate plans or nationally determined contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. These NDCs include mitigation targets, adaptation plans, and financial needs.

The Climate Action Tracker, an independent scientific analysis organization, regularly assesses the progress of countries towards meeting their Paris Agreement targets. Their latest update indicates that the world is not on track to meet the 2°C target, let alone the more ambitious 1.5°C target, which would require much deeper emissions cuts.

However, there are some positive developments. China, the world`s largest emitter, has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2060. Other major emitters, such as Japan and South Korea, have recently committed to net-zero emissions by 2050. The European Union has set a target of reducing emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels.

In addition, many countries are ramping up their efforts to transition to renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. The International Energy Agency predicts that renewable energy will account for 90% of the global electricity sector`s net additions by 2025.

However, there are also concerns that the COVID-19 pandemic may have slowed down progress towards meeting the Paris Agreement targets. The economic downturn caused by the pandemic has led to a decrease in emissions, but this is likely to be temporary. It is important to ensure that economic recovery efforts are aligned with climate goals.

In conclusion, while there is still a long way to go to meet the Paris Agreement targets, there are some positive developments and momentum towards a low-carbon economy. Continued efforts and collaboration on a global scale will be required to achieve the goal of limiting global warming to below 2°C.