What's happened
Ten years after the Paris climate summit, renewable energy growth has accelerated, emissions have plateaued in major economies, and decoupling of economic growth from carbon emissions is widespread. However, geopolitical tensions and energy security concerns are hindering global climate efforts, especially in Asia and North America.
What's behind the headline?
The last decade reveals a complex climate landscape. While renewable energy has shattered records and decoupling is now common among major economies, geopolitical and economic priorities often undermine climate commitments. Asian nations like Indonesia and China are balancing energy security with climate ambitions, often favoring fossil fuels due to cost and supply concerns. The UK’s recent policy shifts demonstrate a recognition of the urgency, but Canada's support for new oil projects highlights the persistent divide between climate goals and economic interests. The decoupling trend suggests that economic growth no longer necessarily equates to higher emissions, but the pace of change remains uneven. The global climate trajectory now hinges on whether these decoupling trends can accelerate and whether geopolitical tensions can be managed to prioritize climate action over energy security. The next decade will determine if the progress of the last ten years can be sustained and expanded to meet the 1.5°C target, or if geopolitical and economic pressures will derail efforts.
What the papers say
The Guardian’s Fiona Harvey highlights the mixed progress since Paris, noting renewable energy growth and emissions stabilization in China and India, but also pointing out setbacks like China's coal expansion and US political tensions. Jonathan Watts emphasizes the decoupling trend, showing how many countries are growing economically while reducing emissions, yet warns that more urgent action is needed. The Japan Times reports on Asia’s energy security concerns, with Indonesia canceling coal projects and China maintaining record mine output, illustrating the tension between economic growth and climate commitments. Oliver Milman discusses the US backlash against data centers, linking rising electricity costs and climate impacts, and highlighting the political opposition to AI-driven infrastructure expansion, which threatens future emissions growth. These contrasting perspectives underscore the uneven and politically complex path toward global climate stabilization.
How we got here
The Paris Agreement of 2015 set a global target to limit warming below 2°C, prompting countries to boost renewable energy and decouple economic growth from emissions. Despite setbacks like US withdrawal under Trump, progress has been made with emissions plateauing in China and decoupling trends accelerating worldwide, driven by policy and technological advances.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are Asian Countries Prioritizing Fossil Fuels Over Climate Goals?
Asian nations like Indonesia, India, and China are focusing heavily on fossil fuel development despite global efforts to combat climate change. This shift raises questions about their energy policies, economic growth, and environmental commitments. How do these priorities compare with those of Western countries like the UK and Canada? And what does this mean for the future of global climate efforts? Below, we explore the reasons behind Asia's energy choices and their potential impacts.
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Why Are Countries Taking Different Approaches to Climate and Energy?
Around the world, nations are diverging sharply in their energy policies. While some push ahead with climate commitments, others prioritize energy security and economic growth. This page explores why these differences exist, what they mean for global climate efforts, and whether a balance can be achieved. Curious about how countries like the UK, Canada, and Asian nations are navigating this complex landscape? Keep reading to find out.
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What Are the Key Stories Shaping Today's News?
Staying updated with the latest headlines can be overwhelming, but understanding the main stories helps you grasp what's really happening around the world. From regional conflicts to energy shifts and political incidents, these stories are shaping global conversations. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about today's top news to keep you informed and engaged.
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Decade of Climate Change: What Has Changed Since Paris?
Ten years after the landmark Paris climate summit, many questions remain about how much progress we've made in tackling climate change. From renewable energy growth to geopolitical hurdles, this page explores the key developments and ongoing challenges. Curious about how emissions have changed, what regions are most affected, and what the future holds? Keep reading for answers to these pressing questions and more.
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How Does Climate Change Threaten Native Species and What Can We Do?
Climate change is impacting native species worldwide, threatening their survival and genetic diversity. From habitat loss to disease, many factors are at play. But can conservation efforts help? And what role do reintroduction projects and community initiatives play in building climate resilience? Explore these questions and more to understand how we can protect our natural heritage in a warming world.
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What’s Next for Global Energy and Climate After Decades of Change?
The world has seen significant shifts in energy and climate policies over the past decade. Renewable energy has grown rapidly, emissions have stabilized in many major economies, and countries are increasingly decoupling economic growth from carbon emissions. But challenges remain, from geopolitical tensions to energy security concerns. Curious about what the future holds for global energy and climate efforts? Below, we explore key trends, obstacles, and what might come next in this complex landscape.
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How Are Climate Change and Biodiversity Connected?
Climate change and biodiversity loss are deeply intertwined issues affecting our planet. Rising temperatures, habitat destruction, and changing weather patterns threaten countless species worldwide, while healthy ecosystems play a crucial role in mitigating climate change. Understanding this connection is vital for effective conservation and climate action. Below, we explore key questions about how climate change impacts biodiversity and what can be done to protect our natural world.
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