UN climate chief urges nations to file crucial climate plans after missed deadlines

On February 10, 2025, nearly 200 nations faced a deadline set by the United Nations to submit their plans aimed at reducing emissions of heat-trapping gases. This deadline is crucial as it marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of climate action, especially following the 2015 Paris climate agreement, which emphasized global efforts to limit temperature rise. However, as of the deadline, only a small fraction—merely a dozen of the 195 nations—have completed and submitted their national strategies for emission reductions, accounting for just 16.2% of global carbon dioxide emissions. Most of this contribution is attributed to the United States, which recently reverted to a previous administration's climate policies. This lack of timely submissions has raised concerns among climate experts about the efficacy and urgency of current international climate efforts. Climate Secretary Simon Stiell reassured that over 170 nations are actively working on their plans, emphasizing the importance of developing comprehensive strategies rather than rushing to meet deadlines. Stiell stated, "Taking a bit more time to ensure these plans are first-rate makes sense," suggesting that quality should be prioritized over mere compliance. Meanwhile, advocates like Champa Patel from the nonprofit Climate Group expressed alarm over the slow progress, underlining that the world cannot afford continued inaction amidst escalating climate crises. The Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), as these climate plans are officially known, are essential components of the global climate agreement. The current trajectory, showing a rise of 1.3 degrees Celsius since the late 1800s, indicates that the planet may warm an additional 1.8 degrees Celsius. This warming trend is increasingly linked to dire weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and wildfires, which result in substantial loss of life and economic repercussions. Experts have underscored the necessity for these plans to encompass the entire economy, in accordance with a 2023 agreement, rather than focusing solely on the energy sector. Analysis from Climate Action Tracker further complicates the picture. Their assessments found that four of the six NDCs they’ve reviewed so far were rated as "almost sufficient" for keeping warming under two degrees Celsius, while Switzerland’s efforts were deemed insufficient, indicating compatibility with approximately three degrees of warming. In contrast, the United Kingdom’s plan was rated as compatible with limiting warming to 1.5 degrees. Brazil's climate strategy aims for a 59% to 67% reduction in emissions by 2035 compared to 2005 levels, emphasizing climate justice and anti-deforestation initiatives. Despite these efforts, assessments reveal a clear message: current contributions are insufficient to avert climate catastrophe. As the new deadline in September draws closer, the United Nations will compile all submitted plans to gauge the collective impact on future temperature rise and emissions reduction. With nations like the European Union and China expected to finalize their plans by mid-year, the onus remains on major emitters, including India, to systematically outline their targets after observing the commitments of other leading countries. The next steps in the climate action journey will undoubtedly hinge on the upcoming submissions and their proposed pledges, spotlighting the ongoing global commitment to combat climate change.