Nations will struggle to meet net zero emissions goals

Subject

Progress towards net zero emissions.

Significance

The UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned on August 9 that land misuse was contributing to CO2 emissions. Research published subsequently by Cambridge University and the University of Southern California calculates that without climate change mitigation, global GDP per capita will be 7.2% lower by 2100. Net zero targets imply major economic transformation and societal change within a short period. Despite more countries adopting targets, the number remains low relative to the global effort needed to meet the 2015 Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Many are not on track to meet the targets.

Impacts

• Future-dated bans on internal engine combustion sales are likely to be made legally binding and possibly brought forward.
• Technologies such as carbon capture and storage, renewable hydrogen and renewable heat are likely to attract state support.
• Electrification of transport and heating will increase power demand; accelerated deployment of renewable energy sources will help.