‘Decisions at COP29 a clear signal the world is heading for disaster’

The decisions reached at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan last month, is a clear signal that the world is heading for disaster.

It has become crystal clear that the rich nations are not serious in tackling climate change, the biggest threat to humanity.

Despite desperate calls from less-developed nations, the rich have again shown their unwillingness to pay for the massive costs needed to rein in climate change. Though it has been estimated that the world needs at least US$1 trillion a year for mitigation, adaptation, and compensation for loss and damage, only US$300 billion was pledged.

It is almost certain that we are on the path to a catastrophic future. The irony of it all is that rich countries have no qualms about spending on conflicts.

Many are asking if the world is truly in good hands. This statement reflects concerns about the state of global governance, environmental degradation, societal inequalities, and economic instability.

There are ample reasons why this sentiment might resonate with many. Some have already become too obvious. The impacts of climate change – rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise – are intensifying.

Despite international agreements like the Paris Accord, global emissions remain dangerously high. Scientists say even the two-degree Celsius threshold will soon be breached.

Though the world recognises the root cause of global warming, the hesitancy to act has become abundantly clear. Biodiversity loss is another calamity that should concern the world.

Human activities, such as illegal deforestation, pollution, and overfishing, are driving species to extinction at an alarming rate, threatening ecosystems.

Add to this, the worsening global waste crisis. The improper disposal of plastic and e-waste continues to pollute land masses and oceans, underscoring a failure in implementing sustainable waste management systems.

There has been much talk about embracing the circular economy, but operationalising circularity has been challenging. There is still resistance to move away from the traditional ‘throw-away’ economy. Not much different from the hesitancy to phase out fossil fuels.

Economic inequality and the wealth gap remain unresolved. This is where a small percentage of the population controls a majority of global wealth, while billions live in poverty. This disparity has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Many nations, particularly in the Global South, are trapped in cycles of debt, limiting their ability to invest in sustainable development and social programmes. In many industries, especially in developing nations, workers face exploitation with minimal wages and unsafe conditions. Not much has changed.

Political instability and weak global cooperation exacerbate matters. Challenges like climate change and pandemics require a united action, but international institutions often struggle with enforcement and coordination due to competing national interests.

Democracies worldwide are under strain, with rising authoritarianism, suppression of dissent, and attacks on press freedom. There is no denying that wars, civil unrest, and geopolitical tensions disrupt lives, economies, and the environment. But the world has become addicted to conflicts.

While technological advances bring efficiency, they are not the panacea. They raise concerns about job losses and ethical use, for example artificial intelligence.

Massive data breaches and the misuse of personal information illustrate the lack of effective regulations. The digital divide also prevents many from accessing opportunities offered by modern technologies.

We saw how Covid-19 exposed global vulnerabilities in healthcare systems, supply chains, and governance. Rising mental health issues among youths and adults reflect societal pressures and the lack of adequate support systems. The proliferation of social media platforms often amplifies fake news and hate speech, eroding trust and social cohesion.

While the challenges are immense, the solutions have been elusive. But there are possibilities.

Building an abuse-free world requires holding governments, corporations, and individuals accountable for their actions. Decision-making should not preclude engaging youth and marginalised communities.

We need to get more serious by embracing the principles of a circular economy, renewable energy, and sustainable development, while not forgetting strengthening international institutions and cooperation.

The world may not currently be in good hands, but through awareness, activism, and innovative solutions, we can chart a better path forward.

The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the writer’s and do not necessarily represent that of Twentytwo13.

Main image: COP29 Azerbaijan.