zero ” emissions, meaning they will only release
as much carbon dioxide and other gases as can
be absorbed by natural or technological means.
But scientists say some of the targets are too far
off and aren’t backed by clear plans that would
ensure that the Paris climate accord’s goal of
capping global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius
(2.7 Fahrenheit) can be achieved.
“The drive to net zero must become the new
normal for everyone, everywhere, for every
country, every company, city, financial institution,
as well as the key sectors such as aviation,
shipping, industry and agriculture,” Guterres told
diplomats during a virtual gathering. “At the
same time, all commitments to net zero must
be underpinned by clear and credible plans to
achieve them. Words are not enough.”
After making good on his campaign pledge to
rejoin the Paris accord, U.S. President Joe Biden
is expected to present his administration’s
strategy for cutting carbon emissions by 2030 at
the November summit.
“The United States is putting the climate
crisis at the center of our foreign policy and
our diplomacy,” the U.S. envoy to the United
Nations, Richard M. Mills, said. “The United States
considers it a serious threat to our national
security and to global security.”
But Mills made clear that the U.S. expects others
to join in the fight. The Glasgow summit “will
only succeed if the biggest emitters lay out
detailed roadmaps in advance, how they will
achieve net zero emissions by 2050,” he said — a
clear reference to China and others.
Guterres urged major industrialized countries
to phase out their use of coal — a big source of
Image: Denis Balibouse
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