This year is an important one for global climate action. Under the Paris Agreement, countries are expected to submit updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) with targets for 2035. These updates provide an opportunity to realign national efforts with the level of ambition necessary to meet agreed climate goals. Yet, the emission reduction pledges for 2030 remain insufficient. Significant gaps persist between commitments, national actions and the emission reductions needed to place the world on a track to meet Paris Agreement objectives.
According to the OECD Climate Actions and Policies Measurement Framework, global climate action expanded by just 1% in 2024 – confirming a slowdown in progress observed since 2021. This loss of momentum can no longer be attributed solely to disruptions from the COVID‑19 pandemic or economic shocks. It reflects deeper structural barriers to implementation and pressures on climate commitments in many countries. Persistent disparities in action across countries risk heightening competitiveness concerns and carbon leakage, ultimately undermining the overall progress of global mitigation efforts.
Building on the OECD’s multidisciplinary expertise, the International Programme for Action on Climate supports countries in strengthening climate action through comparable, harmonised data and evidence‑based policy analysis. The Climate Action Monitor draws on these data to assess progress, identify good practices and help governments design and implement more effective strategies to accelerate alignment with the Paris Agreement goals.
By strengthening implementation, improving policy coherence and deepening international co-operation, we can raise the ambition in global climate action and restore momentum in achieving faster, more effective progress towards emissions reduction. The OECD will continue to support its members and partners in translating robust data and analysis into effective climate policy action.
Mathias Cormann
OECD Secretary-General