UN says climate pledges fall far short as greenhouse gas levels hit records
publishers 76articles 104first reported 7 Oct, 01:19 UTCdeveloping since 7 Oct · 26 editions
Countries’ latest climate pledges would reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by only 6% from 2019 levels by 2035, far short of the roughly 60% cut scientists say is needed to limit warming to 1.5°C, according to a UN report released Tuesday.
The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change assessment examined 127 new nationally determined contributions representing 154 parties to the Paris Agreement and covering 71% of global emissions. Even if countries fully implement their plans, including measures dependent on conditions such as financing, emissions would fall by only 9% by 2035.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that emissions must decline 60% by 2035 for a reasonable chance of holding warming to 1.5°C, or 37% to keep warming below 2°C. The UN report said implementing current pledges alongside longer-term net-zero targets would put estimated warming at 1.7°C to 2.3°C by the end of the century.
A separate World Meteorological Organization report said atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide all reached record levels in 2025. The agency said the increases could drive further long-term warming and more extreme climate events, with effects persisting for centuries.
The reports were released ahead of COP31 climate talks in Turkey. UN climate chief Simon Stiell said the meeting’s emphasis on practical implementation could help address gaps in countries’ plans.
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