G20 calls for accelerated action, need to keep 1.5°C within reach

Announcing its climate change agenda ahead of COP26, the G20 called for accelerated action on global net zero target (to be achieved by mid-century), the goals of the Paris agreement, the need for 'keeping 1.5°C within reach', enhancing NDCs (climate targets), checking methane emissions and inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.

The G20 declaration, however, made space for 'different approaches' and 'national circumstances', indicating the wrangling over climate change action between the developed and developing nations.

"We reaffirm our commitment to the full and effective implementation of the UNFCCC and of the Paris Agreement, taking action across mitigation, adaptation and finance during this critical decade, on the basis of the best available scientific knowledge, reflecting the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances," said the G20 declaration issued on Sunday.


"We remain committed to the Paris Agreement goal to hold the global average temperature increase well below 2°C and to pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, also as a means to enable the achievement of the 2030 Agenda," said the declaration.

The declaration recognised the 'impacts of climate change at 1.5°C are much lower than at 2°C' and said that keeping '1.5°C within reach' will require 'meaningful and effective actions and commitment by all countries'.

Indian government sources said the identification of 'sustainable and responsible consumption and production' as a critical enabler for keeping the 1.5°C goal within reach was a big success for India, which has strongly been pitching its low-carbon lifestyle at climate forums. That apart, India pushed for and obtained commitment from G20 on improving livelihood for small and marginal farmers. Developing nations including India pitched for a more equitable vocabulary at the G20 ahead of the Rome summit, seeking more than enunciation of 'climate goals' and seeking action from developed nations.

The G20 agreed to end international public finance for new coal power generation abroad by 2021-end and mobilise funds to support low emission power development.