A stark reality unfolds as a recent United Nations report, titled ‘Broken Record,’ reveals that the world is hurtling towards a temperature rise of 2.5 to 2.9 degrees Celsius over the pre-industrial era. The report underscores the alarming failure of countries to curb emissions adequately.
This year alone, until October, witnessed 86 days with average temperatures surpassing 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Notably, September set a record as the hottest month, with global temperatures soaring 1.8 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Despite this, global greenhouse gas emissions increased by 1.2% from 2021 to 2022, reaching a new record of 57.4 Gigatonnes of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent.
The report, emphasizing the gravity of the situation, indicates that G20 nations saw a 1.2% rise in emissions in 2022, contrary to the imperative decline needed to meet Paris Agreement goals. To align with these objectives, predicted 2030 emissions must be slashed by 28-42%, compelling nations to intensify efforts in comparison to current policy scenarios.
The report asserts that both high-income and high-emitting countries, as well as low- and middle-income nations, must take unprecedented actions. High-income nations are urged to accelerate domestic emissions reductions, commit to achieving net-zero emissions swiftly, and extend financial and technical support to lower-income counterparts. Meanwhile, low- and middle-income countries are called upon to develop while transitioning away from fossil fuels.
The report delves into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), revealing a gap in emissions for a 2-degree Celsius goal and a 1.5-degree Celsius goal. Further delays in stringent global greenhouse gas reductions may necessitate increased reliance on carbon dioxide removal technologies.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgent need for change, stating that without intervention, emissions in 2030 could surpass the 1.5-degree limit by 22 Gigatonnes. The report exposes a dire emissions canyon, signaling a failure of leadership and a missed opportunity to address the climate crisis.
