Climate Action Set To Weather Volatile Times

Even as climate action weathers potentially disruptive uncertainties, including wars, geopolitical tensions, and elections in the world's biggest democracies, the global sustainability agenda promises to stay on track through 2024

- Prabodha Acharya, Anuna Banerjee

Against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, raging wars, economic shifts and a heightened global focus on climate action, the world will embark on a difficult journey towards sustainable development in 2024. Throughout the year, several trends are expected to shape the sustainability landscape, from limiting temperature rise to fostering cleaner economies.

The role of politics in shaping and implementing effective measures for climate action cannot be overstated. Political decisions influence the policies, regulations, and international collaborations necessary to combat climate change. As we navigate the complexities of climate change, political leadership remains instrumental in driving meaningful and impactful climate action on a global scale. 

India and the US, the world’s largest democracies and biggest emitters, are under the global spotlight because the outcomes of their impending national elections will significantly influence the global climate agenda. 

Yet, the scenario in China paints a somewhat more optimistic outlook for the climate discourse. Despite a modest economic recovery from COVID-19, China has not embarked on major infrastructure expansions as seen after previous economic shocks. 

Notably, there has been a surge in investment in manufacturing capacity for low-carbon technologies like solar, electric vehicles, and batteries, creating a significant interest group in China that could influence its climate policies domestically and internationally.