“2025 Climate Outlook: Readers Demand More Action on Emissions, Climate Change, and Nature Protection”

Climate Home News readers are calling for governments and corporations to take more action to cut emissions, prepare for climate change, and protect nature in the upcoming year. With climate destruction escalating, subscribers to the newsletter have expressed a desire for increased ambition in addressing climate change and greater transparency in climate action efforts.

1. Governments must make bigger commitments to cut emissions – and stick to them
   Under the 2015 Paris climate agreement, all governments are required to submit a climate plan, known as a nationally determined contribution (NDC), to the United Nations every five years. The upcoming third round of these plans, due in 2025, will likely include more ambitious emissions reduction targets for 2035 on top of existing 2030 goals. However, current NDCs, even if fully implemented, are projected to lead to a catastrophic 2.6C of global warming, according to the United Nations. Climate Home readers emphasize the need for challenging yet realistic NDCs that align with actionable policies to limit global warming to 1.5C or 2C above pre-industrial levels.

2. Governments must prepare for worsening climate change impacts
   The World Meteorological Organization has indicated that 2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record, with climate change exacerbating disasters worldwide. Readers express concerns about drought, wildfires, and extreme weather events in 2025, highlighting the urgency of adapting to climate change. The UN’s loss and damage fund aims to provide support to climate victims, with plans to begin distributing funds by the end of 2025.

3. Nature conservation should pick up pace
   The alarming rate of species extinction, exacerbated by climate change, underscores the need for accelerated nature conservation efforts. While COP16 made progress in empowering indigenous communities, financing for nature protection remains a critical issue. Discussions on a UN treaty to address plastic pollution will continue in 2025, reflecting readers’ concerns about preserving biodiversity on land and in oceans.

4. We need less misinformation, accounting tricks, and jargon
   Readers are wary of misinformation on climate change, particularly in light of political figures like Donald Trump spreading inaccurate claims. The UN’s initiative to combat climate misinformation through a dedicated fund for research and public awareness campaigns is a step towards addressing this challenge. Concerns about governments using accounting tricks to inflate climate action achievements and the need for clearer communication on climate issues are also highlighted by readers.

5. The roll-out of green technology must quicken
   Advancements in green technology, such as solar panels and electric vehicles, are crucial for decarbonizing the world. Readers emphasize the importance of accelerating the deployment of green solutions like heat pumps, micro-grids, and sustainable city design to curb emissions growth. While progress has been made, achieving peak emissions in 2025 remains uncertain but possible with concerted efforts.

In conclusion, the voices of Climate Home News readers underscore the urgency for bold climate action, transparent policies, and innovative solutions to address the escalating climate crisis. Governments and corporations are urged to prioritize emissions reductions, climate adaptation, nature conservation, combating misinformation, and accelerating the transition to green technology in 2025 and beyond.