The Paris Agreement on climate change was signed in 2015 by 195 countries. It set out a plan to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with a goal of limiting it to 1.5 degrees. One of the key elements of the Paris Agreement is a regular global stocktake, which is due to take place in 2023.
What is the global stocktake?
The global stocktake is a process in which all countries come together to review the progress they have made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change. It is designed to be a transparent, science-based assessment of where countries stand in relation to the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The global stocktake will also provide an opportunity for countries to update their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which are the pledges countries made under the Paris Agreement to reduce their emissions. Countries are expected to revise and strengthen their NDCs every five years, with the global stocktake providing the framework for this process.
Why is the global stocktake important?
The global stocktake is important because it will help to ensure that the Paris Agreement remains on track. It will enable countries to assess their progress and identify areas where more action is needed. It will also enable countries to share information about best practices and innovative solutions.
Another key aspect of the global stocktake is that it will help to build trust between countries. The Paris Agreement is built on the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, which means that countries with a greater historical responsibility for emissions are expected to take more action. The global stocktake will provide a forum for countries to discuss how to balance this principle with the need for action from all countries.
What will happen at the global stocktake?
The global stocktake will involve a number of different elements. One key aspect will be the assessment of progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement. This will involve a review of the latest scientific findings on climate change and an analysis of the emissions reductions and adaptation measures taken by countries.
Another important element of the global stocktake will be the review of NDCs. Countries will be expected to submit updated NDCs before the stocktake, which will be reviewed and analyzed by other countries.
The global stocktake will also provide an opportunity for countries to share information on initiatives and programs that have been successful in reducing emissions and adapting to climate change. This will help to build momentum for further action and provide a platform for countries to learn from each other.
Conclusion
The global stocktake is a critical component of the Paris Agreement. It will provide an opportunity for countries to assess their progress and identify areas where more action is needed. It will also enable countries to share information, build trust, and learn from each other. As we approach the next global stocktake in 2023, it is important that all countries continue to work together to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and ensure a safe and sustainable future for all.
