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Opinion | A pat on our backs for the precious climate change victories of 2023
- Climate change now dominates discourse, more governments have net zero pledges, cleantech spending has surged, renewable energy is cheaper and EV technology is improving
- Acknowledging how far we’ve come is important to fortify ourselves for the much more that needs to be done
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In a world of escalating emissions and rampant natural disaster, cynicism and reproach hold sway in our climate conversations. But amid setbacks, there’s much to celebrate.
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The change-makers deserve recognition: the influence of climate activists, leaders and the younger generation has been monumental – and unthinkable not long ago.
At the start of 2024, let us acknowledge our climate victories so they may fortify us in overcoming the suffering that persists, and harness the momentum sparked.
First, the global discourse on climate change. A few years ago, only a handful truly cared. Today, surveys show that most people see climate change as a critical concern.
This evolution isn’t happenstance. Media platforms have elevated climate discussions and educational programmes are cultivating a more profound comprehension. In regions grappling with brutal climate effects, the learning curve has been steep. The once-sidelined issue is taking centre stage, not just in public forums but also in global politics.
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Governments are hopping on the net-zero bandwagon. Back in 2015, Bhutan was the lone wolf. Today, more than over 90 countries are in on the game, covering almost 80 per cent of emissions. The goal is to put a lid on rising temperatures. Remarkably, projections of temperature increases by the end of the century have improved, from an alarming 3.6-3.9 degrees Celsius to 2.7 degrees, according to a recent study.
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