COP27 outcomes
The United Nations Climate Change Conference COP27 closed with a breakthrough agreement to provide “loss and damage” funding for vulnerable countries hit hard by climate-related disasters. It also emphasized the need to strengthen systematic observations and to achieve universal coverage of early warning systems – two of the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO’s) top priorities.
The cover decision, known as the Sharm el-Sheikh Implementation Plan, was adopted after prolonged negotiations. It reaffirms the commitment to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The cover decision also urges Parties to further integrate water into adaptation efforts, the first-time water has been referenced at a COP outcome document, emphasizing the critical role water plays in climate change adaptation.
Efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 °C will require “rapid, deep and sustained reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions of 43 per cent by 2030 relative to the 2019 level.” Parties are invited “to consider further actions to reduce by 2030 non carbon dioxide greenhouse gas emissions, including methane.” WMO’s Greenhouse Gas Bulletin reported record high levels of greenhouse gases, including the biggest year-to-year jump in methane concentrations since measurements began.
“Decision-makers at COP27 recognized the importance of the best available science for effective climate action and policymaking, This is at the heart of WMO’s mandate,” said WMO Secretary-General Prof. Petteri Taalas.
“WMO is gratified that the COP27 outcomes included recognition of the need for a robust global climate observing system, for systematic observations and for universal access to early warnings. WMO will continue to provide cutting-edge science to support mitigation – including through a global greenhouse gas monitoring infrastructure – and adaptation – through better early warnings,” said Prof. Taalas.
Mr Guterres announced a USD 3.1 billion plan to ensure everyone on the planet is protected by early warning systems within the next five years.
This is being spearheaded by WMO and partners. In order to achieve this, it is imperative to close gaps in the climate observing system, including through support provided by the Systematic Observations Financing Facility. This was recognized in the Sharm el Sheikh Implementation Plan.
More information from the WMO