On November 26, 2024, the G20 leaders gathered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to discuss pressing environmental issues and make commitments towards a more sustainable future. The meeting, hosted by Brazil as the current G20 presidency, brought together leaders from the world’s largest economies to address key challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and plastic pollution.
One of the major highlights of the meeting was the reaffirmation of the G20’s commitment to the goals of the Paris climate agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. These agreements aim to limit global warming and protect biodiversity by setting ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving at least 30% of the planet’s land and waters by 2030.
In addition, the G20 leaders called on all governments to ratify the 2023 high seas treaty and agree to a global treaty on plastic pollution this year. These actions are crucial in addressing the growing threat of plastic pollution in our oceans and protecting marine life.
Brazil, as the host country, provided a fitting venue for these environmental negotiations. With its vast Amazon rainforest, the Pantanal wetland, and a large ocean area, Brazil is a key player in global conservation efforts. The country is also taking significant steps towards a cleaner energy future, with 90% of its electricity coming from renewable sources.
The G20 Leaders’ Declaration also emphasized the importance of conserving marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Forest conservation and restoration were highlighted as crucial strategies for carbon sequestration and biodiversity protection. The declaration called on governments to implement sustainable forest management practices and restoration initiatives to reverse degradation and protect these vital ecosystems.
Overall, the G20 leaders’ meeting in Rio de Janeiro was a significant step towards addressing pressing environmental issues and promoting a more sustainable future. By reaffirming their commitments and calling for action, the G20 leaders have shown a united front in the fight against climate change, biodiversity loss, and plastic pollution. Let us hope that these promises turn into concrete actions and pave the way for a greener and healthier planet for future generations.