Climate change is no longer a theoretical concept or a subject of scientific research. It’s a harsh reality that’s impacting countries worldwide. We’re witnessing extreme weather events like droughts, floods, storms, and heavy rainfall.
Human activities and greenhouse gas emissions are primarily responsible for climate change. After carbon dioxide, methane is the most significant contributor. Methane concentrations in the atmosphere have been rising rapidly, with the Global Carbon Project reporting a 20% increase in methane emissions over the past two decades. This surge is primarily attributed to coal mining, oil and gas production, and consumption. Additionally, livestock and decaying organic matter are significant sources of methane.
Human-induced climate change has altered the atmosphere and oceans. 2023 was the hottest year on record, and this trend continued into the first half of 2024.
According to United in Science, global greenhouse gas emissions increased by 1.2% from 2021 to 2022, equivalent to 57.4 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
When the Paris Agreement was adopted, it was estimated that greenhouse gas emissions would be 16% lower by 2030 compared to 2015. However, the good news is that it has only increased by 3% so far. But more needs to be done to curb greenhouse gas emissions. If the global temperature increase is to be kept within 2 degrees Celsius or 1.5 degrees Celsius (compared to the pre-industrial era) and current policies remain in place, greenhouse gas emissions will need to be reduced by 28% and 42% by 2030.
According to current policies and NDCs, it is estimated that the global temperature increase can be kept within a maximum of 3 degrees Celsius this century. However, if conditional NDCs and net-zero pledges are met, the temperature increase can be kept within 2 degrees Celsius. There is only a 14% chance of keeping the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Currently, the average surface temperature of the Earth is 15 degrees Celsius.
United in Science says there is an 80% chance that the temperature will increase by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius (compared to the pre-industrial era) in any one year in the next 5 years. And these 5 years are considered from 2024 to 2028. Moreover, 1 out of 6 countries in the world lacks national adaptation plans and funding. Therefore, United in Science has opined that adaptation and mitigation plans are essential.
ActionAid, an international charity, says that over $650 billion in subsidies are given to fossil fuel companies annually. These subsidies are encouraging greenhouse gas emissions. Developed countries are promoting these subsidies. For example, Britain subsidizes the fossil fuel sector with $7.3 billion annually.
In this reality, the 29th Conference of the Parties is about to begin in Azerbaijan in November. Heads of state and policymakers from various countries around the world will be present. One of the main topics of discussion this time is the climate fund.
However, more importance should be given to taking steps to prevent the causes of climate change rather than focusing on funds. Countries with high carbon and methane emissions should be held accountable.
