The current wave of national net zero targets could reduce the projected global average temperature increase to 2.0–2.4°C by 2100. Net zero targets, if fully implemented, could bring the Paris Agreement temperature goal within reach.
A total of 131 countries are discussing, have announced, or have adopted net zero targets, covering 72% of global emissions. The targets could substantially lower projected temperature increase compared to currently implemented policies (2.9–3.2 °C) or pledges submitted to the Paris Agreement (2.4–2.9 °C).
While being a good sign these good intentions must now immediately propagate into short-term action to put countries on a path towards meeting their net zero emission ambitions. Existing policies and targets driving short-term action are currently not consistent with the announced net zero targets.
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