From Trump’s denial to COP30 in Brazil: Is 2025 a turning point for climate action?

Environment Desk, Jan 29 (EFE).– The year 2025 could turn pivotal for global climate action as key events and challenges loom large.

This year will mark a decade since the historic Paris Agreement, with countries expected to present more ambitious plans to reduce emissions amid a rapidly closing window to avert climate catastrophe.

The urgency is underscored by recent environmental disasters, such as the devastating California wildfires fueled by strong winds and the deadly floods in Valencia, Spain, which claimed over 200 lives.

These events are part of a broader trend: 2024 saw every month except July exceed the critical threshold of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, a dangerous milestone scientists warn could have catastrophic consequences if not addressed immediately.

Adding to the complexity is the return of Donald Trump to the US presidency. Trump, who previously withdrew the US from the Paris Agreement, has vowed to roll back environmental policies, raising concerns about global climate efforts.

Against this backdrop, 2025 will host several critical events aimed at addressing the climate emergency.

Here are the key milestones to watch:

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)
Countries are required to submit updated NDCs by February 2025, outlining their plans to combat climate change. These commitments, which must be renewed every five years under the Paris Agreement, are crucial for limiting global warming and ensuring a safer future.

COP16 on Biodiversity
The United Nations Conference on Biodiversity (COP16), postponed from November 2024 in Cali, Colombia, will resume in February 2025 in Rome, Italy. The conference aims to establish a global financing mechanism for biodiversity and review progress toward protecting 30% of the planet’s biodiversity by 2030.

UN Ocean Conference
In June 2025, Nice, , will host the United Nations Conference on Oceans under the theme “Accelerate action and engage all stakeholders to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.” The event will focus on preserving marine ecosystems, which cover over 70% of the planet and play a vital role as carbon sinks and biodiversity reservoirs.

New York Climate Week
Scheduled for September 2025, this summit will bring together global leaders from governments, businesses, and civil society to showcase climate action and drive progress.

COP30 in the Amazon
For the first time, the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) will be held in the Amazon region, in Belém, Brazil. This symbolic location highlights the importance of protecting the world’s largest tropical rainforest. The summit aims to secure more ambitious climate commitments, address financing for developing countries, and promote inclusive measures that recognize the rights of indigenous peoples.

UN Environment Assembly
In December 2025, Nairobi, Kenya, will host the United Nations Assembly on the Environment, focusing on “Promoting Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet.” Topics will include the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, pollution, and environmental justice.

As the world races against time to address the climate emergency, 2025 could prove to be a decisive year in shaping the future of global climate action. EFE

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