(Net) Zero to 1.5 ºC

5 years ago we’ve made history together enshrined in the Paris Agreement. But world leaders are failing to uphold their commitments that will keep our planet from catastrophic climate change.

Real climate leadership to limit warming to 1.5°C means no funding for fossil fuels, and keeping them in the ground. We need bold and true commitments, not business as usual. 

In 2020, we have seen communities globally struggle from the dual crises of COVID-19 and climate change. 2021 must be a time of healing. We need a just recovery that puts the health of people and the planet first. 

Due to the pandemic, the United Nation’s 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) will be postponed till November 2021. From now to the COP26, join 350 Asia in calling some of the world’s dirtiest and most powerful banks and governments to stop funding the climate crisis.

Net zero pledges are the first steps to help reach our climate goals but these countries must walk their talk. Announcing a climate emergency must be followed up by concrete, well-managed plans to phase out fossil fuels and invest in a fast and just transition to a renewable energy future.

If not, the plans for net zero will fall apart closer to their deadlines. By then, it would be too late to limit any temperature rise to 1.5°C.

Stronger Ambition, Not False Solutions

Net zero goals don’t mean anything, if they bank on false unproven technologies (such as Japan’s pledge) or broken promises of emission reduction. Coal moratorium pledges that allow the industry to infringe upon human rights are empty symbols, if the countries do not submit ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for climate justice.

We must shed false solutions in favor of indigenous knowledge and respect the rights of communities. We need stronger climate leadership, from banks, governments and financial institutions, who will cut ties with the fossil fuels industry.