World leaders promise to end deforestation; Phasing out coal; India eyes net-zero; Funding announced to protect nature.
Between the 31st of October and the 12th of November, delegates from the EU and 196 countries came together to discuss and combat climate change. But what happened?
In this month’s roundup, we pull together the key news surrounding the COP26 summit.
World Leaders pledge to cut methane and end deforestation
The Irish Times (02/11/2021)
In the first major deal of the COP26 summit, the third day of talks saw world leaders promise an end to deforestation by 2030.
Committing a combined £14bn in funding, over 100 leaders signed the deal in the hopes of reversing deforestation.
Halting deforestation is important to prevent the effects of climate change as forests absorb a large amount of CO2.
Part of the £14bn funding aims to rectify the impacts of deforestation, including restoring lands and supporting indigenous communities.
Some of the funding will also go towards tackling wildfires.
End of Coal in Sight at COP26
UK COP26 (04/11/2021)
More than 20 countries have agreed to phase out their use of coal.
Among the signatories were Vietnam and Chile, but missing were the US and China.
In a further commitment, the US and 24 other countries agreed to end international support for the fossil fuel industry.
As the largest climate change contributor, coal has a significant impact on climate change.
India to hit net-zero climate target ‘by 2070’
RTE (01/11/2021)
Narendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister, eyes a net-zero India by 2070.
Although a longer timeframe than other countries, the 2070 timeline is a feasible target for India to achieve, says experts.
Modi also defended his timeline by emphasising how India houses 17% of the global population yet is only responsible for 5% of the world’s emissions.
He also proposed global action to implement sustainable lifestyles.
As it stands, 70% of India’s power is coal-generated.
Funding for protecting nature and shift to sustainable farming
Irish Times (06/11/2021)
45 countries agree to protect nature and create sustainable agriculture and food processes.
Made on Nature and Land-Use Day, the commitment promises urgent action to achieve sustainable farming and protect nature.
With agriculture and land use causing around a quarter of the global greenhouse gas emissions, the commitment recognises the need to create a sustainable system.
