Here is a summary of the article with potential solutions and recommendations for developed countries:
Gaps and Shortcomings in NDCs
The National Determinatives (NDCs) submitted by developed countries like the UK, UAE, and Brazil are criticized for being non-compliant with climate targets.
- The UK's 2035 target is impressive but lacks comprehensive plans for how it will achieve emissions reductions in priority sectors.
- The UAE's NDC sets a target of reducing emissions by 47% by 2035 but lacks ambition to phase out fossil fuels and stop their expansion.
- Brazil's plan is criticized as reasonable but insufficient.
Developing Countries' Needs
Developing countries face significant growth needs, which can be exacerbated in the short term. They need financing and support infrastructure development.
Recommendations for Developed Countries
To avoid overshooting 1.5°C and meet climate goals:
- Increase ambition: All NDCs should aim to reduce global emissions by at least 45% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
- Sectoral energy transition targets: Incorporate sectoral energy transition targets into NDCs, including plans for full power sector decarbonization by 2035.
- Immediate action on coal: Commit to ending new coal approvals immediately and phase out coal production by 2030.
- Fossil fuel licensing freeze: Freeze fossil fuel licensing and accelerate the exploration and development of new oil and gas resources.
- Phasing out fossil fuels: Implement a plan to phase out all fossil fuels by mid-century, with a focus on ending fossil fuel consumption entirely.
- Clean energy transitions: Enlarge and deepen clean energy investments through increased taxes, subsidies, and direct funding programs.
- Global financing framework: Establish a global financing framework that provides support for developing countries' climate goals.
Key Actions
- Reaffirm the energy package agreed at COP28 last year and commit to delivering sectoral energy transition targets set out in it.
- Develop comprehensive plans for achieving emissions reductions across sectors, with clear milestones and verification mechanisms.
- Establish a global phase-out process for fossil fuels, starting with coal first and moving towards oil and gas second.
- Double down on finance, research, and development of clean technologies to accelerate climate progress.
Global Cooperation
Developed countries must recognize their historical responsibility in driving the transition to a low-carbon economy. This includes providing leadership, financing, and technology transfer for developing countries.
Let us review these recommendations at least twice and make sure everyone agrees before going forward with a final version of our response