A year in review 2024 – the tapestry of sustainability
The past 12 months have been pivotal in terms of environmental milestones, with a strong influence from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) that shape global environmental policy. Here's a closer look at some of the most memorable environmental moments from 2024:
Landmark Deal to Fund Conservation: One of the highlights was the historic financial agreements to support global conservation efforts. This included increased commitments to fund biodiversity projects and efforts to halt deforestation. Governments, organizations, and the private sector have stepped up with investments, contributing to the protection of ecosystems that are essential for both wildlife and humanity’s long-term survival.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Warnings: On the flip side, alarming news about greenhouse gas emissions painted a grim picture. Despite efforts in some regions to reduce emissions, global CO2 levels have continued to rise, largely driven by increased industrial activities, energy consumption, and deforestation. The situation has intensified concerns about meeting climate goals and the urgent need for transformative action.
Rollercoaster Year for the Planet: Throughout 2024, the world has witnessed extreme weather events, such as intense heatwaves, floods, and wildfires, underscoring the urgency of tackling climate change. In addition, biodiversity loss, coupled with the intensifying impacts of climate change, has highlighted the need for coordinated global action.
In summary, 2024 served as both a year of hope, with significant strides made in funding and conservation efforts, and a stark reminder of the continuing environmental challenges that require global cooperation and innovation.
A timeline of events
February
Hundreds of migratory species in peril: Nearly half of the migratory species listed in a key UN treaty are in decline.
Torrent of trash inundating the planet
The launch of a new global monitoring system in 2024 has provided an unprecedented view into the environmentally destructive world of sand dredging.
UN Environment Assembly brought countries together for the sixth session to conserve and protect our planet.
March
Countries unite in order to curtail emissions from the building sector
April
The United Nations initiated a campaign aimed at enhancing sustainability within the minerals supply chain.
May
A new financial initiative was established to promote conservation activities.
Judicial authorities mandate measures to address greenhouse gas emissions.
June
The planet commemorates World Environment Day.
July
Anticipating the ecological challenges that lie ahead:
UNEP's Navigating New Horizons outlines eight significant global transformations, one of which is the rise of digital technologies, that profoundly affect the collective environment.
August
Swimmers are making their way back to the Seine River in Paris.
The Seine River will serve as the venue for various swimming competitions during the Summer Olympics in Paris, representing the first occasion in a hundred years that this historically polluted river has been made officially accessible for swimming.
September
Countries are increasingly facing the escalating danger posed by superbugs:
During the United Nations General Assembly held in New York, nations committed to reducing the fatalities associated with antimicrobial resistance, a condition that is responsible for nearly 5 million deaths each year.
October
The world is progressing towards severe warming conditions.
The Emissions Gap Report 2024 published by UNEP indicates that the planet is on track for a potentially disastrous increase in temperature ranging from 2.6°C to 3.1°C within this century. To maintain the most ambitious objectives of the Paris Agreement, it is essential that greenhouse gas emissions are reduced by over 40 percent by the year 2030.
November
The report advocates for substantial investments in climate adaptation.
In the context of extreme temperatures, severe droughts, and unprecedented flooding, the UNEP’s Adaptation Gap Report 2024 urges nations to significantly increase their financial commitments towards climate change adaptation efforts.
December
Countries reach consensus on addressing plastic pollution.
In discussions held in the Republic of Korea, nations are progressing towards the establishment of a legally binding agreement aimed at eliminating plastic pollution, particularly in marine ecosystems. Delegates from over 170 countries have reached a consensus on a document referred to as the Chair’s Text, which will act as the foundation for further negotiations scheduled for 2025.
