Nature for Climate | Environment Assembly

The world is warming faster than at any point in recorded history. The global average temperature is now 1.1°C higher than at the beginning of last century. If that heating continues unchecked, it could have devastating humanitarian, ecological and economic impacts, causing food shortages, megafires, raising sea levels and sparking extreme weather.

Unless global greenhouse gas emissions fall by 7.6 per cent each year between 2020 and 2030, the world will miss the opportunity to get on track towards the 1.5°C temperature goal of the Paris Agreement.

Restoring and protecting nature on land and in the ocean is one of the greatest strategies for tackling climate change. Forests, wetlands, and other ecosystems act as buffers against extreme weather, protecting houses, crops, water supplies and vital infrastructure. Conserving and restoring these life nurturing ecosystems will help maintain planetary stability as we rebuild our societies and our economies after this COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2020 Emissions Gap Report found that a green pandemic recovery could cut up to 25 per cent off predicted 2030 greenhouse gas emissions and bring the world closer to meeting the 2°C goal of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.

Reinforced environmental standards, policies and laws that prevent further emissions are crucial. For example, in 2020, 15 African countries announced strict new rules for vehicle emissions and fuel efficiency. Countries also need to end subsidies for fossil fuels and invest in low-emissions technology, renewable energy and zero-carbon infrastructure.

Wherever possible, emergency fiscal measures to prevent a global recession should align with the overarching Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris climate change agreement.