To avoid catastrophic consequences for humanity due to climate change, in 2015 almost all the countries of the world signed the Paris Agreement committing to limit long-term global temperature rise to 1.5°C (well below 2°C) above pre-industrial levels.
These commitments remain largely unfulfilled. Global average temperatures have risen about 1.3°C since pre-industrial times, with 2024 marking temporary exceedances of 1.5°C. If the recent warming rate of 0.26°C per decade persists, we could surpass 3°C by 2100—more than double Paris targets.
Many world leaders now prioritize net zero CO2 emissions by 2050, a goal once aligned with 1.5°C limits but increasingly insufficient due to delays. Scientists Warning Europe urges net zero by 2030 to stay on track.
In the event this proves unattainable, the climate crisis will worsen. Permafrost thaw in the Arctic, accelerated by warming, releases methane—a potent greenhouse gas with 28 times CO2’s warming potential over 100 years (84 times over 20 years). This feedback loop could amplify temperatures further.
Major emitters must act decisively. China accounts for about 26% of global CO2 emissions, followed by the US (13%), India (7%), EU (8%), Russia (5%), and Japan (3%). Oil and gas producers (e.g., OPEC nations) contribute around 13%, while other developing countries like Brazil, Indonesia, South Africa, Mexico, and Iran add roughly 10%.
By 2065, about 55% of global emitters may achieve net zero, including China (2060 target), EU (2050), UK (2050), Brazil (2050), Indonesia (2060), South Africa (2050), Mexico (2050), and Iran (2050). The remaining 45%, led by the US, Japan, South Korea, and Canada (~33% of emissions), target 2050 but face delays—urgent action by 2030 is critical.
To avert disaster, we must not only slash emissions but remove existing CO2 from the atmosphere. The IPCC warns of a carbon budget limit for 1.5°C, requiring removal of up to 1,000 GtCO2 by 2100. Returning to safe 350 ppm levels (from current 420 ppm) demands about 550 Gt removal initially, plus more to offset future emissions—totaling 1,500 Gt (or about 190 ppm) of CO2 (as recommended by Dave King) if trends continue.
SOS-Planet advocates for immediate, science-based action: policy reforms, investment in energy transition and renewable energy, and global cooperation to secure a livable planet for all. Join us in demanding accountability from leaders and supporting carbon offsetting and removal solutions. Together, we can rewrite humanity’s future.
If you wish to know more about the reasons that led us to promote the SOS Planet initiative, we invite you to read our article published in HuffPost.