How Bolder Targets, Treaties, and Talks Will Steer a Defining Year for Climate
As we embark on one of the most pivotal years for our planet, nations across the globe are poised to redefine climate commitments. This year promises significant benchmarks as developed and developing nations alike strive to uphold climate pledges amidst challenging geopolitical backdrops.
Key Climate Developments in 2025
With temperatures remaining alarmingly high, 2025 is positioned to rank among the top three hottest years recorded. As nations navigate the repercussions of this climatic turbulence, here are the pivotal developments and issues set to shape climate policy:
Return of the US to Climate Diplomacy
On 20 January, the inauguration of Donald Trump for a second term signals potential hurdles in climate diplomacy. Despite intentions to retract the United States from the Paris Agreement, renewable energy investment fueled by the Inflation Reduction Act offers a silver lining. Local and state governments, alongside private sectors, continue to champion decarbonization and green initiatives.
February’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)
February marks the deadline for countries to submit updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Current commitments project global warming towards a 2.5C to 2.9C increase, emphasizing the urgency for more ambitious targets. Focused on renewable energy, these plans aim at narrowing the emissions gap and fostering a sustainable future.
Continuing Biodiversity Talks
Rome is set to host the resumption of Cop16 biodiversity discussions. Objectives include channeling $200 billion annually toward biodiversity by 2030 and strategies to protect 30% of the Earth’s ecosystems. Financing mechanisms from affluent nations to protect biodiversity in developing countries stand as a contentious yet critical agenda.
Mid-Year Environmental Undertakings
The UN Ocean Conference
France and Costa Rica will co-host the third UN Ocean Conference, targeting the advancement of marine conservation under the UN’s “Life Below Water” sustainable goal. Specialist panels will tackle diverse issues, including fishery management and deep-sea ecosystem restoration, setting fresh targets for marine protection.
Plastic Treaty Negotiations
The world’s plastic crisis remains unresolved as nations reconvene for Global Plastics Treaty negotiations. While controversy endures over production limits and product bans, advocates insist on the necessity of a legally binding treaty to combat plastic pollution, with only 10% of plastic ever produced having been recycled.
Launch of MicroCarb Satellite
Europe celebrates the launch of MicroCarb, its inaugural carbon-mapping satellite. This joint UK-French initiative will monitor carbon absorption across forests, oceans, and urban regions, being instrumental in advancing Paris Agreement compliance. Precise data on CO2 emissions influences policies for sustainable urban development.
November’s COP30 Climate Summit
The spotlight in November turns to Brazil, hosting the COP30 climate summit in Belem. As home to a significant fraction of the Amazon rainforest, Brazil champions global climate discourse. Discussions will converge on emissions reduction, climate finance for developing nations, and exiting reliance on fossil fuels.
European Union’s Deforestation Rules
Come December, stringent EU deforestation regulations mandate proof of sustainability from large companies trading commodities like cocoa and palm oil. This measure targets environmental accountability and strives to limit the EU’s ecological footprint with enforceable penalties for non-compliance and a grace period for smaller enterprises.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
This year presents a defining moment for climate policy, as international efforts seek to align short-term actions with long-term sustainability goals. While challenges persist, particularly within major geopolitical contexts, collaborative frameworks and innovation remain essential to steering our planet towards a resilient and sustainable future.
Stay updated with these developments and more impactful climate news through RFI, advocating informed action and proactive environmental stewardship.
Source: https://www.rfi.fr/en/environment/20250119-how-bolder-targets-treaties-and-talks-will-steer-a-defining-year-for-climate