Could UNFCCC COP 29 be the Watershed For Finding a Solution to Reduce Emissions Equitably? A Pathway to a Level Playing Field for Reaching Net Zero
1.0 In 2023, the U.N. Secretary-General, António Guterres identified the “Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities” [CBDR-RC Principle] as a key driver for achieving net zero deadlines - subject to a significant condition: “Every country must be part of the solution. Demanding others move first only ensures humanity comes last”.
2.0
Existing issues
that have limited the adoption of the CPDR-RC Principle over time are identified
e.g., conflicts over inequality and competitive
advantage; the wide disparity in national contributions of global CO2
emissions between all countries.
3.0
The article outlines the framework for a level
playing field for reducing emissions, equitably, to reach net zero by 2050, based on the linkage
between the CPDR-RC Principle and the fair treatment Equity
guideline. The CPDR-RC Principle and Equity are both legally
binding obligations under the Paris Agreement.
4.0
A level playing field would enable all 195 UN Parties that have ratified the Paris Agreement Parties to share the responsibility for reducing
emissions, equitably, in accordance with their actual contribution to historic
global temperature rise.
KEY WORDS:
Paris Agreement;
COP 29; emissions; net zero; António Guterres; equity; CBDR-RC Principle; level
playing field; relevant and reliable science; IPCC Task Force National GHG
Inventories; illusory promise
Comments
Post a Comment