UNFCCC Report Warns of Insufficient Climate Action Ahead of COP30

On October 28, 2025, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) released a report analyzing the latest climate pledges submitted by countries under the Paris Agreement. The report indicates that if these pledges are fully implemented, global greenhouse gas emissions are projected to decrease by approximately 10% by 2035 compared to 2019 levels. However, this reduction is significantly below the 60% decrease required to limit global warming to 1.5°C and mitigate severe climate impacts.

The analysis is based on 64 updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted between January 2024 and September 2025, representing about one-third of signatory nations. Notably, major emitters such as China and the European Union have yet to submit their new targets, which could influence future assessments.

This shortfall underscores the urgency for enhanced climate action ahead of the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Brazil. The report serves as both a measure of progress and a stark warning, highlighting the need for a credible response to the climate ambition gap.

UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell emphasized the need for accelerated action, stating, "The foundations are laid, the direction is set, we now have a serious need for speed."

The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, is a legally binding international treaty on climate change. Its goal is to limit global warming to well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C, compared to pre-industrial levels. To achieve this, countries submit NDCs outlining their plans to reduce emissions and adapt to climate impacts. These contributions are to be updated every five years, with increasing ambition over time.

The UNFCCC's 2025 report serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need for enhanced global climate action. With the current pledges falling significantly short of the necessary reductions, the upcoming COP30 summit presents a pivotal opportunity for nations to commit to more ambitious targets and collectively work towards limiting global warming to 1.5°C.