COP29: Joint Press Release on 1.5°C-Aligned Ambition in NDCs Toward Net Zero

The United Kingdom, Brazil and the United Arab Emirates have announced 2035 NDC targets that set a high bar for ambition. The GZERO countries of Bhutan, Madagascar, Panama and Suriname have already achieved net zero greenhouse gas emissions. 

Canada, Chile, the European Union, Georgia, Mexico, Norway and Switzerland aim to submit next NDCs that are: 

• Consistent with the IPCC emissions trajectories and the global stocktake call for deep, rapid, and sustained reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in line with 1.5°C;
• Absolute, economy-wide reduction targets covering all greenhouse gases, sectors, and categories; and
• Aligned with steep and credible emissions reductions toward their respective mid-century net zero goals, consistent with a linear or steeper trajectory. 

Together, we recognize the urgency of action to address the climate crisis and the critical role of major emitters in putting the world on a 1.5°C pathway. We are committed to delivering on the goals of the Paris Agreement and keeping 1.5°C within reach and recognize the significant economic imperatives and opportunities of strong climate action. 

We strive to implement bold actions aimed to achieve our next NDC targets and respond to the 2023 global stocktake decision, including the calls to action in paragraphs 28 and 33. 

We encourage countries to set and/or accelerate their net zero greenhouse gas emissions goals. We call on others to join this effort. 

“GZERO Nations have set the standard for what true climate leadership looks like. We stand as living proof that net-zero emissions are attainable, even for nations with limited resources. We call on the rest of the world to rise to the occasion, match our ambition, and embrace transformational changes to keep 1.5°C within reach. Climate leadership knows no borders, and the time for bold action is now.” 

- Joint Statement from Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay of Bhutan; President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, President Jose Raul Mulino of Panama, President Chan Santokhi of Suriname 

“The Paris Agreement is working and keeping 1.5C within reach is both an environmental imperative and an economic opportunity. That’s why I join global partners to call for climate ambition as we commit to putting forward ambitious 2035 climate plans. Canada understands its responsibility and looks forward to securing an ambitious and hopeful outcome that delivers for the people and the planet at COP29.” 

- the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“President Claudia Sheinbaum has been very clear about Mexico’s renewed commitment to ambitious climate action as a foundational condition for social justice and shared prosperity. The next round of NDCs is not just our last chance to keep 1.5C within reach, but the greatest opportunity of this century to trigger the structural transformation of our development model for people and planet. Mexico is ready to lead by example.” 

- Mexico Minister Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources Alicia Bárcena