In April 2022, the Sixth Assessment Report of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) published its third report, conducted by Working Group III, on the mitigation of climate change. The report, the last one to be published by the three working groups before the final synthesis report is due by early 2023, provides an updated global assessment of climate change mitigation progress and pledges and examines the sources of global emissions. It explains recent developments in emission reduction and mitigation efforts, assessing the impact of national climate pledges in relation to long-term emissions goals.
At Ecolytics, we broke down three key points for businesses to take away from the report:
1. Average annual GHG emissions during 2010-2019 were higher than in any previous decade.
However, the rate of growth between 2010 and 2019 was lower than that between 2000 and 2009.
2. We have the solutions to reach net zero by 2050.
But we need to start taking action now!
3. Certain solutions are smarter investments.
Improving building efficiency and transport can help companies reduce more carbon for less money.
“We are at a crossroads. The decisions we make now can secure a liveable future. We have the tools and know-how required to limit warming,” said IPCC Chair Hoesung Lee. “I am encouraged by climate action being taken in many countries. There are policies, regulations and market instruments that are proving effective. If these are scaled up and applied more widely and equitably, they can support deep emissions reductions and stimulate innovation.”
).jpg)
