A commitment to climate sustainability is now a priority for major global economies, such as major emitters China, The United States, The European Union e India Who play the main role. These countries are almost responsible for it. 60% of CO2 emissions are investing significant resources in projects and programs globally to achieve the goal of “net zero”a goal that includes reducing emissions to a level that balances emissions into the atmosphere. These efforts, while important, are still not enough to stop global warming, but they represent an important step toward global systemic change.
Climate commitment was at the center of the second day of the States General of the Green Economy, organized by the National Council of the Green Economy. The meeting, consisting of 66 business organizations, was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (Mase) and under the auspices of the European Commission and the Ministry of Business and Italy (Mimi). This year’s edition focused on international issues, particularly the climate strategies and policies implemented by Europe, the United States, China and India, four of the main pillars of the global climate policy panorama. There are players.
The European Union’s commitment to combating climate change: progress and future objectives
The European Union has thereby emphasized its climate policy. Green Deal European ambitious plan that includes regulatory measures and regulatory tools designed to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. These initiatives are beginning to bear fruit, with solid progress indicating a return to the right path towards decarbonisation. In fact, during 2023, the EU managed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 31% compared to 1990 levels, which is a significant step towards meeting the climate objectives.
Particularly relevant was the resumption of the decarbonisation process after a temporary pause in 2022, a year that recorded a slowdown due to exceptional events, such as the energy crisis linked to the war in Ukraine. Between 2022 and 2023, greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced by around 200 million tonnes, a positive sign that the policies implemented are having a real impact on the environment. If the EU continues on this path, it will reach its interim target of reducing emissions by at least 55% by 2030, as set out in the Fit for 55 package.
Furthermore, with European Climate Lawthe Union has set a binding goal of climate neutrality by 2050, committing to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions to zero, balancing emissions with carbon emissions. This ambitious goal will require more investment in innovation, green technology and integrated policies at the national and international levels. The path to climate neutrality will not be easy, but the first results are encouraging and confirm that the EU is on the right track to contribute to a more sustainable future for future generations.
China and the Energy Transition: Between Challenges and Commitments to a Sustainable Future
China, the world’s largest emitter of CO2, has seen its emissions rise significantly in recent years, reaching a 39 percent increase. Nevertheless, the country remains firmly committed. Energy transfer for several factors.
First, the enormous impact of the climate crisis on China’s vast territory is forcing the government to take concrete measures to mitigate climate change. China’s growing technological and manufacturing capabilities are also helping to facilitate this transition. China has chosen to focus on global leadership in decarbonization technologies, recognizing that this choice not only helps reduce emissions, but also provides significant economic opportunities.
In 2022, China has demonstrated remarkable achievements in this regard. The country has sold 60 percent. Electric cars Globally, 50% Wind Power Plants And 45 percent of them Solar Photovoltaic. These achievements highlight China’s ability to become a global leader in green technologies and take advantage of the opportunities presented by the energy transition.
However, despite these developments, China remains the world’s largest consumer. Carbonis responsible for about 70% of its total emissions. This represents a significant challenge for the country, which must balance the need to reduce emissions with its dependence on coal as an energy source.
China is facing a determined energy transition due to environmental, technological and economic factors. Achievements in electric cars and renewable energy demonstrate the country’s potential to become a global leader in decarbonization technologies. However, dependence on coal represents a major challenge that China must address to achieve its emissions reduction goals and contribute to the fight against climate change.
Key drivers of energy transition in China:
- Effects of climate crisis: The impact of climate change on a vast area of China is forcing the government to take concrete measures to mitigate climate change.
- Technical and production capabilities.China’s growing technological and manufacturing capabilities are playing a major role in facilitating the energy transition.
- Global leadership in decarbonization technologies: China has chosen to focus on global leadership in decarbonization technologies, recognizing that this choice offers significant economic opportunities.
- Advances in Green Technologies: In 2022, China sold 60% of the world’s electric cars, 50% of its wind power plants, and 45% of its solar photovoltaic plants.
- Dependence on coal: Despite growth, China remains the world’s largest coal consumer, accounting for about 70% of its total emissions.
These factors highlight both the opportunities and challenges China faces in its energy transition. The country’s commitment to advancing decarbonization and its growing role as a global leader in green technologies are positive signs, but its dependence on coal represents a significant challenge to achieving climate goals. Must be resolved.
The United States and the Climate Challenge: Ambitious Policies and Green Goals
The United States, the world’s second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases but first per capita, plans to cut emissions by 14.5 percent in 2022. This result was achieved thanks to a series of measures and policies to promote stronger and faster greenhouse gas emissions. The Biden administration has mobilized at an unprecedented level. Government support To achieve these objectives, with an ambitious target of achieving 100%. Green electricity By 2035
Steps taken by major cities and states:
- New York: New York City plans to ban fossil fuels in all new buildings by 2027. This initiative represents an important step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector by promoting the use of renewable energy sources.
- California: California requires new buildings to be wired for all electric operation. The legislation aims to facilitate the transition to a low carbon economy by encouraging the use of energy efficient technologies.
- Washington: Washington state requires new buildings to be equipped with heat pumps. Heat pumps are devices that transfer heat from one source to another, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional heating systems.
The Biden administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to fighting climate change. Through a series of policies and investments, the government is promoting the transition to a more sustainable economy. This includes supporting renewable energy, encouraging green technology and promoting sustainable practices in the industrial, transport and construction sectors.
Now, US climate policy will be scrutinized by the new administration. It will be critical that the new government continues to support and implement the necessary measures to achieve the emission reduction targets. Continuity of climate policy is essential to ensure that the efforts made to date are not in vain and that the United States can maintain its role as a global leader in the fight against climate change.
India faces the climate challenge: a delicate balance
India has the same total emissions level as the European Union, but has three times the population. This means that India’s per capita emissions are still low, less than half of the global average and about a quarter of China’s. Yet, India is the most populous country in the world and one of the countries most affected by the climate crisis. Extreme weather events, such as heat waves, floods and storms, are becoming increasingly frequent and intense, putting pressure on local infrastructure and communities.
At Cop26 in Glasgow, the Indian government announced its intention to become one. A net zero emitter Only until 2070. This ambitious target requires a number of measures and policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development. To achieve this, India has implemented several key strategies.
One of the major strategies adopted by India is to increase production. Renewable energy. The country is investing heavily in solar, wind and hydroelectric technologies to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This not only helps in reducing emissions but also creates new economic opportunities and jobs in the renewable energy sector.
India is also promoting the development of low carbon technologies. This includes innovation in energy efficiency, electric transportation and carbon capture and storage technologies. Investments in these technologies are essential to reduce the environmental impact of industrial activities and transport.
To support these ambitious initiatives, the Government of India has planned. Double investment in clean energy By 2030, over $60 billion in 2022. This significant increase in investment is needed to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and achieve climate goals.
