Latin America's Climate Pledges Under Scrutiny at COP24
Latin America and the Caribbean, despite contributing relatively little to greenhouse gas emissions, face significant climate change impacts. As the 2020 deadline for drastic emission cuts approaches, countries are reviewing Paris Agreement measures at COP24. Brazil, the region's top emitter, aims for a 37% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, while Mexico plans a 25% cut in combined GHG and black carbon emissions. However, experts rate Mexico's commitment as insufficient.
The transportation sector in Latin America is a major contributor to CO2 emissions, responsible for over one-third. Argentina's new goals include limiting emissions to a 35% increase by 2030, excluding LULUCF, and a conditional target of 369 MtCO2e/a. Meanwhile, Costa Rica stands out with an absolute and unconditional 25% reduction target in CO2 emissions by 2030. Mexico's President López Obrador aims to increase electricity generation capacity to reduce CO2 emissions indirectly, but specific targets are unclear.
Brazil's deforestation, a significant source of CO2 emissions, has begun increasing again, threatening its 37% reduction goal in CO2 emissions by 2030. The energy sector accounts for 42% of the region's total CO2 emissions. The 24th Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP24) seeks to review and strengthen these commitments to stay below 1.5°C and mitigate the worst impacts of climate change.
Latin American countries must enhance their climate commitments to protect their highly vulnerable regions. COP24 offers a crucial opportunity to review and strengthen these pledges, with Brazil and Mexico under scrutiny. The transportation and energy sectors, significant emitters of CO2, must be addressed urgently to meet the 2020 deadline and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
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