The Paris Agreement: A Decade of Progress and Challenges

Ten years after the adoption of the Paris Agreement at COP21, the world continues to confront significant climate challenges. Despite the pledge to limit global warming to well below 2°C and keep the 1.5°C target achievable, emissions and temperatures are rising alarmingly.

Impact and Progress of the Paris Agreement

• Before the Agreement, global warming was projected to reach 4°C-5°C by century's end. Now, it's adjusted to 2°C-3°C due to collective actions.
• The Agreement emphasizes fairness, justice, and international solidarity, recognizing diverse national circumstances.
• Globally, the economic transition to low-carbon energy is underway, with renewable energies like wind and solar leading growth and job creation.

Technological Advancements and International Cooperation

• Electric vehicle sales now represent nearly 20% of new car sales worldwide, driven by advances in battery technology.
• The International Solar Alliance (ISA), launched by India and France, showcases international cooperation in promoting solar energy.

India's Leadership in Climate Action

• India achieved 50% of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources ahead of the 2030 target.
• The nation aims for a low-carbon pathway and net-zero emissions by 2070.

Priorities for Future Climate Action

• Increase global ambition to reduce carbon emissions significantly.
• Ensure a just and inclusive transition with vulnerable communities at its core.
• Protect natural carbon sinks like forests, mangroves, and oceans.
• Empower non-state actors to translate ambition into real-world impacts.
• Support scientific research and combat climate disinformation.

The Paris Agreement's transformation path is deemed unstoppable due to the necessity of adaptation, irreversible industrial investments, sustainable local policies, and the resilience of multilateralism.

Benoît Faraco, France’s Special Envoy for Climate Negotiations, emphasizes the continued importance of coordinated global efforts to address climate change.