OECD Report Highlights Stagnation in Global Climate Action Amid Rising Emissions

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has released its "Climate Action Monitor 2025," revealing a concerning slowdown in the implementation of climate policies worldwide. The report indicates that, despite existing commitments, greenhouse gas emissions have reached unprecedented levels, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced and accelerated climate action.

According to the report, in 2023, aggregate greenhouse gas emissions from 50 OECD and partner countries were approximately 2.5 gigatonnes of CO₂ equivalent—8% above the levels required to stay on track with their 2030 Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This gap widens further when compared to the trajectories needed to achieve long-term net-zero targets.

The OECD's Climate Actions and Policies Measurement Framework (CAPMF) reveals that the number and stringency of climate policies increased by only 1% in 2024, confirming a loss of momentum since 2022. This slowdown suggests that the gap between policy action and climate commitments is widening.

OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann emphasized the importance of intensified efforts, stating, "The benefits of climate action for our ecosystems, societies, and economies are significant, including greater resilience to climate risks. Realizing these benefits will require countries to step up efforts towards meeting their commitments and select an ambitious, appropriate policy mix reflecting their unique circumstances and climate objectives."

The report identifies sector-specific patterns contributing to the overall emissions gap:

• Electricity and Heat Production: These sectors remain the largest sources of emissions. While some OECD countries have achieved reductions in power generation emissions since 2015, overall progress is insufficient to meet climate targets.

• Transport: Emissions from the transport sector have not declined since 2015, indicating persistent challenges in reducing emissions from this area.

• Industry: Some reductions have been observed in industrial emissions within OECD countries; however, partner countries have experienced emission increases driven by strong economic growth and continued reliance on fossil fuels.

The report also underscores the intensification of climate-related hazards. In 2024, the world experienced unprecedented heatwaves, floods, and droughts, highlighting the escalating risks associated with climate change. Projections indicate that global average temperatures could rise significantly, with up to a 6°C difference between very low- and very high-emission scenarios, emphasizing the high costs of delayed action.

To address these challenges, the OECD recommends:

1. Increasing Ambition in 2035 NDCs: The upcoming submission of 2035 NDCs provides an opportunity to raise ambition and credibility, aiming to close the gap between current targets and pathways consistent with net-zero by mid-century.

2. Legal Enshrinement of Net-Zero Targets: Translating long-term targets into legislation is crucial to provide clear, credible signals for deep greenhouse gas emission reductions.

3. Improving International Coordination: Enhanced global cooperation is essential to scale up ambition, ensure convergence in efforts across countries, and prevent carbon leakage, thereby strengthening global mitigation outcomes.

The findings of the "Climate Action Monitor 2025" have profound social and societal implications. Communities worldwide are becoming more vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, including health risks, economic disruptions, and displacement due to extreme weather events. Delayed or insufficient climate action can lead to significant economic costs, including damage to infrastructure, reduced agricultural yields, and increased healthcare expenses. Moreover, the uneven implementation of climate policies may exacerbate existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalized and low-income populations.

The "Climate Action Monitor 2025" serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for countries to accelerate their climate policy implementation. Without enhanced ambition and coordinated action, the world risks failing to meet the Paris Agreement goals, leading to severe environmental, economic, and social consequences.