As COP30 approaches in Belém, a clear reality is taking shape: global climate ambition is increasing, but not fast enough. To keep the 1.5 °C goal within reach, national climate commitments must rapidly evolve into on-the-ground action, backed by fair transitions, stronger financing, and international cooperation.
In recent months, nearly one-third of global emissions have come under new national climate plans aligned with long-term net-zero pathways expected between 2040 and 2060. Together, they point to an estimated 17% reduction in emissions by 2035 compared to 2019 levels. This is meaningful progress, yet still falls short of what is needed to avoid the most severe climate impacts. The global community must push harder and move faster.
Forests and renewable energy are emerging as critical pillars in this effort. Protecting and restoring forests, expanding solar energy, and reducing deforestation not only curb emissions but also safeguard biodiversity and strengthen local economies. Many countries are setting quantitative targets to triple renewable capacity, advance low-emission hydrogen, and scale up carbon capture — marking momentum toward deeper decarbonization.
At the same time, climate policy is increasingly social. More governments are integrating gender equity, participation from civil society, and youth leadership into their climate strategies. There is also growing emphasis on ensuring a just transition, recognizing that decarbonization must be fair and inclusive, especially for communities linked to extractive sectors or vulnerable to climate impacts.
This ambition will require robust international cooperation. Most countries have identified external support as essential to achieve their goals, with financial needs estimated near USD 2 trillion — including significant investment in adaptation. This reflects the urgency of strengthening resilience across sectors such as agriculture, coastal protection, forests, and oceans.
COP30 is shaping up to be a moment of truth. Beyond reaffirming the Paris Agreement, it must demonstrate that global commitments can translate into tangible transformation. For Latin America — and especially Colombia — this is a strategic opportunity to accelerate the energy transition, scale nature-based solutions, expand forest conservation, and strengthen financing mechanisms such as carbon and biodiversity credits that deliver direct benefits to communities.
At Energía Limpia, we believe the road to Belém must be guided by cooperation, solidarity and grounded climate action. The science is clear — the risks of inaction are escalating, but so are the opportunities of a climate-smart economy. The task now is to move from ambition to execution.
The decade ahead will define our shared future.
