LOSS AND DAMAGE ESSENTIAL FOR CLIMATE ACTION IN NDCS

In 2024, the annual temperature anomaly reached levels exceeding the 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels for the first time. The two-year average for 2023-2024 also surpassed this threshold. While this development does not indicate a breach of the limits established by international agreements, it highlights a significant rise in global temperatures that modern humans have never experienced. Although 1.5°C may appear to be a small change, it is already triggering unprecedented climate-related hazards and impacts, particularly in developing countries, putting both people and ecosystems at increased risk. Current climate action plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), are not ambitious enough to limit global temperatures to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Existing policies, if maintained, could result in a rise of up to 3.1°C. This collective shortcoming exacerbates climate risks, leading to more frequent and intense climate change hazards and impacts. The responses so far have been insufficient, leaving both people and nature vulnerable to irreversible consequences. The acceleration of loss and damage is evident, reflecting the findings of various scientific reports, which highlight residual risks and limits to adaptation efforts, along with the ensuing losses. The forthcoming year of 2025 represents a critical opportunity for countries to strengthen their climate action in response to this escalating threat. Nations are expected to update their NDCs to be submitted to the relevant international framework by February 2025. This moment is crucial for ensuring that loss and damage are recognized as a fundamental element of these national plans. Addressing loss and damage is essential for reflecting humanity's progress in confronting the climate emergency. It is vital that NDCs include strategies to tackle loss and damage effectively. Building on previous policy guidelines, this updated document outlines four straightforward steps for countries and stakeholders to successfully integrate loss and damage into their NDCs.