Net Zero Roadmap: A Global Pathway to Keep the 1.5 °C Goal in Reach

Net Zero Roadmap: A Global Pathway to Keep the 1.5°C Goal in Reach (2023 Update)

Overview

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released a 2023 update to its Net Zero Roadmap, focusing on the critical period between now and 2030. The report highlights the importance of reducing emissions quickly this decade to keep the 1.5°C goal within reach.

Key Findings

1. Global Context:

   • Member Countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom, along with the United States and the European Commission.
   • Association Countries: Argentina, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Morocco, Senegal, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, and Ukraine.

2. Recent Developments:

   • Positive Developments: Rapid progress in clean energy technologies like solar PV and electric vehicles, driven by significant policy efforts.
   • Negative Developments: Strong economic recovery post-COVID, leading to increased carbon-intensive activities and higher energy-related CO2 emissions in 2022.
   • Climate Urgency: July 2023 was the hottest month on record, and 2023 is expected to be the hottest year. Severe wildfires, droughts, floods, and storms underscore the urgency of climate action.

3. Pathway to Net Zero:

   • Achievability: While the global pathway to net zero by 2050 has narrowed, it remains achievable. Advanced economies are expected to reach net zero sooner to allow more time for emerging and developing economies.
   • Technological and Policy Solutions: Proven technologies and policies can reduce emissions quickly enough this decade to keep the 1.5°C goal in reach.

4. Collaborative Efforts:

   • Geopolitical Considerations: The report emphasizes the need for stronger cooperation rather than fragmentation to address climate change, which is indifferent to geopolitical rivalries and national boundaries.

Methodology

• Data and Analysis: The report draws on the latest data and analysis to provide a comprehensive roadmap.
• Core Team: Led by Laura Cozzi, Director for Sustainability, Technology, and Outlooks, and Timur Gül, Chief Energy Technology Officer. Key contributors include Araceli Fernández, Thomas Spencer, and others.

Conclusion

The IEA's Net Zero Roadmap provides a clear path forward for the global energy sector to achieve the 1.5°C goal. The findings underscore the importance of immediate and sustained action by all countries to mitigate climate change effectively.