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UN urges nations to submit overdue climate plans ahead of COP30

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By illuminem briefings

· 3 min read


illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The United Nations has called on countries to urgently submit their overdue Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), six months after the official February deadline
These updated climate action plans — central to the Paris Agreement — outline national strategies to reduce emissions by 2035 and are critical ahead of the COP30 summit in Brazil this November
UN climate chief Simon Stiell emphasized that plans submitted by the end of September will be included in the upcoming UN review report

🔭 The context: NDCs are mandatory under the Paris Agreement, designed to enhance global climate ambition every five years
Despite this, many countries, including major emitters like the EU, have not submitted updates
The EU’s delay stems from internal disagreements over its 2040 climate target, with France and Poland pushing for broader political input
This has stalled progress and may impact the EU’s ability to present a unified position at COP30

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The timely submission of ambitious NDCs is vital for aligning global efforts with the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C target
Delays risk undermining trust, limiting investment in clean technologies, and weakening climate diplomacy
Robust national plans could unlock economic benefits through the clean energy transition, while late or weak commitments may exacerbate climate risks and adaptation costs.

⏭️ What's next: Countries have until the end of September to submit updated NDCs for inclusion in the UN’s pre-COP30 report
The UN General Assembly on 24 September offers a high-level platform for leaders to present their new commitments
The EU must resolve internal disputes promptly to maintain credibility and leadership in climate negotiations
Final NDC submissions will directly shape the tone and outcomes of COP30 negotiations in November

💬 One quote: "These national climate plans are much more than words on paper; they are... the cornerstone of humanity's fight against the global climate crisis." – Simon Stiell, UN Climate Chief

📈 One stat: Over six months after the February deadline, a majority of countries, including the EU, have still not submitted their 2035 climate plans, undermining global progress

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