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As the world grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, new findings from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) emphasize the urgent need for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C by the end of the century. According to the latest report from the IPCC’s Working Group III on ‘Mitigation of Climate Change,’ a 43% reduction in emissions by 2030—relative to 2019 levels—is essential to keep this goal within reach, with a 50% likelihood of success by 2100.

The findings come at a time when global temperatures continue to rise, causing extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and other environmental crises. The IPCC’s report, cited in a recent United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) document, outlines the critical need for urgent action across the globe. The report also notes that, despite some progress, the current level of global greenhouse gas emissions is still on track to exceed the 1.5°C threshold unless substantial efforts are made by 2030.

India’s Role and Commitment at COP 29

India’s commitment to combating climate change was reinforced at the 29th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 29) to the UNFCCC, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024. The inter-ministerial delegation from India participated in discussions on the critical climate change agenda, with a focus on the Paris Agreement’s goals and the support developing nations need to meet their climate targets. A key topic was the financial support and technology transfer that developed nations are expected to provide to help developing countries like India enhance their climate action.

At COP 29, India reiterated the importance of fair and equitable climate action, recognizing that countries are at different stages of development and face unique challenges. The global community acknowledged that enhanced support for developing countries is crucial to achieving higher ambition in addressing climate change.

India’s commitment aligns with the broader global objective of reducing emissions and transitioning to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy. The country is working towards its own targets outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), aiming to contribute to global efforts while balancing its developmental needs.