China has criticised the United for 'backpedalling' on its policies regarding climate change after US President Joe Biden chided Xi Jinping for missing the COP26 summit.

The country's chief climate negotiator in Glasgow, Xie Zhenhua slammed Biden's predecessor Donald Trump for pulling out the United States out of the Paris Agreement and said it was time to "work harder and catch up".

China's permanent ambassador to the United Nations, Zhang Jun condemned the ''empty slogans'' used by the US for tackling global warming.

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''China has been earnestly supporting #ClimateAction. We are not the one who withdrew from the Paris Agreement. The US however has back-pedalled its climate policies many times. Instead of blame-shifting, what it should do now is to shoulder responsibility and take concrete actions,'' he added.

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In addressing <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateChange?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateChange</a>, what we need is firm commitment and continued actions. 
 
What we don’t need: 
 
-Empty slogans 
-Ever-changing policies 
-Luxury motorcades and entourage 
-Irresponsibly exposing numerous people to infection
— Zhang Jun (@ChinaAmbUN) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinaAmbUN/status/1455681481343442944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Speaking at his closing press conference at the COP26 Summit, Biden expressed disappointment over with Chinese actions on climate in Rome, and also the lack of willingness for Chinese President Xi Jinping to show up at either the G20 or COP26 summit.&nbsp;

China had alleged that Xi sent a written statement for the summit instead of giving an address by video conference after the organisers did not provide a link.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-slams-russia-china-for-missing-cop26-426258">US President Joe Biden slams Russia, China for missing COP26</a>

Beijing has vowed to reach an emissions peak by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2060, among other ambitions.

In his written address, Jinping said ''I hope all parties will take stronger actions to jointly tackle the climate challenge and protect the planet, the shared home for us all.''

Xi Jinping is in self-isolation and has not left China in the last 20 months. He has not attended any global event during this time period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-making-rapid-progress-in-development-of-silos-missiles-that-could-launch-nuclear-weapons-report-426276" hreflang="en">China making rapid progress in development of silos missiles: Report</a>

The 68-year-old had last visited Myanmar in the middle of January, 2020.

Beijing has rejected Washington's efforts to separate climate from wider conflicts between the two sides, with senior diplomat Wang Yi telling U.S. climate envoy John Kerry in September that there was still a "desert" threatening the "oasis" of climate cooperation.

One particular point of contention for China has been the US imposition of sanctions on Chinese companies, including solar equipment suppliers, with links to the Xinjiang region.

China rejects Western allegations of human rights abuses in the region.

China has criticised the United for 'backpedalling' on its policies regarding climate change after US President Joe Biden chided Xi Jinping for missing the COP26 summit.

China has criticised the United for 'backpedalling' on its policies regarding climate change after US President Joe Biden chided Xi Jinping for missing the COP26 summit. The country's chief climate negotiator in Glasgow, Xie Zhenhua slammed Biden's predecessor Donald Trump for pulling out the United States out of the Paris Agreement and said it was time to "work harder and catch up". China's permanent ambassador to the United Nations, Zhang Jun condemned the ''empty slogans'' used by the US for tackling global warming. ''China has been earnestly supporting #ClimateAction. We are not the one who withdrew from the Paris Agreement. The US however has back-pedalled its climate policies many times. Instead of blame-shifting, what it should do now is to shoulder responsibility and take concrete actions,'' he added. In addressing #ClimateChange, what we need is firm commitment and continued actions. What we don’t need: -Empty slogans -Ever-changing policies -Luxury motorcades and entourage -Irresponsibly exposing numerous people to infection — Zhang Jun (@ChinaAmbUN) November 2, 2021 × Speaking at his closing press conference at the COP26 Summit, Biden expressed disappointment over with Chinese actions on climate in Rome, and also the lack of willingness for Chinese President Xi Jinping to show up at either the G20 or COP26 summit. China had alleged that Xi sent a written statement for the summit instead of giving an address by video conference after the organisers did not provide a link. Also read | US President Joe Biden slams Russia, China for missing COP26 Beijing has vowed to reach an emissions peak by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2060, among other ambitions. In his written address, Jinping said ''I hope all parties will take stronger actions to jointly tackle the climate challenge and protect the planet, the shared home for us all.'' Xi Jinping is in self-isolation and has not left China in the last 20 months. He has not attended any global event during this time period. Also read | China making rapid progress in development of silos missiles: Report The 68-year-old had last visited Myanmar in the middle of January, 2020. Beijing has rejected Washington's efforts to separate climate from wider conflicts between the two sides, with senior diplomat Wang Yi telling U.S. climate envoy John Kerry in September that there was still a "desert" threatening the "oasis" of climate cooperation. One particular point of contention for China has been the US imposition of sanctions on Chinese companies, including solar equipment suppliers, with links to the Xinjiang region. China rejects Western allegations of human rights abuses in the region.

China lambasts US for 'backpedalling' on climate policies after Biden chided Jinping

While addressing COP26 Climate Summit in Glasgow President Joe Biden said that the US is ready to be a leader again in the fight against climate change. Biden also apologised for former US President Donald Trump's climate actions.

US ready to lead world in climate fight, says Biden at COP26 summit

Kremlin spokesman has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the COP26 Climate Change Summit in Glasgow, UK.

Putin skips COP26 climate summit, cites COVID outbreak as key cause

Historic climate talks involving more than 120 world leaders are underway in Glasglow, UK. The conference came just days after the historic G20 summit in Rome, Italy. The COP26 summit is being touted as humanity's last chance to achieve the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 Degrees Celsius.

COP26 Summit: World leaders unite in call for urgent action against climate crisis

While delivering the national address as a ‘representative’ of developing nations, Indian PM Narendra Modi outlined a five-point plan to fight the devastating effects of global warming and climate change. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India will reach net-zero carbon emission by 2070.

India to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, says PM Modi at COP26 summit

Climate change caused overwhelmingly by human activity is the primary source of the unprecedented forest fires regularly ravaging the western United States, according to a study published Monday.

Fires destroyed an average of 13,500 square kilometres (5,200 square miles) per year in the American west between 2001 and 2018 -- twice as much as between 1984-2000.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eco-hypocrite-leaders-businessmen-arrive-in-fuel-guzzling-private-jets-at-cop26-425903" hreflang="en">'Eco-hypocrite': Leaders, businessmen arrive in fuel-guzzling private jets at COP26</a>

"It's happened so much faster than we previously anticipated," Rong Fu, who led the study published by the US National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), told the Los Angeles Times.

In order to understand what contributed to such a significant deterioration of conditions in such a short time, a team of American researchers led by Fu analyzed various factors at work in the "vapor pressure deficit" (VPD), which indicates how dry the air is.

The VPD represents the difference between the amount of water actually present in the atmosphere and the maximum that the atmosphere could hold. The greater the deficit, the more water is drawn into the air from soil and plants, drying them out and creating conditions that are increasingly conducive to fires.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-climate-summit-world-leaders-pledge-to-end-deforestation-by-2030-425988">COP26 climate summit: World leaders pledge to end deforestation by 2030</a>

Scientists have determined that the increase in wildfires in the western United States is closely linked to this deficit during the warm season. Between May and September, the number of days with a high VPD increased 94 per cent between 2001 and 2008 compared to the previous period, the study said.

According to Fu and her colleagues' calculations, "natural" atmospheric variations were only responsible for an average 32 per cent increase in VPD. The remaining 68 per cent of the increase in atmospheric water deficit over the past 20 years is due to global warming, which is largely caused by human activities.

"Prior to 2000, we can explain this fire weather pretty well just using weather patterns," said Fu, a climatologist at the University of California UCLA. "But now we can only explain 30 percent of what we see with fire weather."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/by-2030-climate-change-may-trigger-24-dip-in-global-corn-yields-says-study-426059">By 2030, climate change may trigger 24% dip in global corn yields, says study</a>

Some models show anthropogenic, or human-originated, warming could explain up to 88 per cent of the anomalies seen in the VPD, the study found.

In August 2020, when California suffered the largest fire ever recorded in the region -- the August Complex Fire, which alone burned nearly 4,200 square kilometres (1,600 square miles) &nbsp;-- so-called anthropogenic warming was responsible for about 50 per cent of the "unprecedented high" moisture deficit, the study said.

According to climate experts, due to greenhouse gases generated by human activity, primarily fossil fuel use, the planet has already warmed about 1.1 degrees Celsius since the pre-industrial era.

Most of the warming has occurred in the last 50 years.

Climate change caused overwhelmingly by human activity is the primary source of the unprecedented forest fires regularly ravaging the western United States, according to a study published Monday.

Climate change caused overwhelmingly by human activity is the primary source of the unprecedented forest fires regularly ravaging the western United States, according to a study published Monday. Fires destroyed an average of 13,500 square kilometres (5,200 square miles) per year in the American west between 2001 and 2018 -- twice as much as between 1984-2000. Also Read | 'Eco-hypocrite': Leaders, businessmen arrive in fuel-guzzling private jets at COP26 "It's happened so much faster than we previously anticipated," Rong Fu, who led the study published by the US National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), told the Los Angeles Times. In order to understand what contributed to such a significant deterioration of conditions in such a short time, a team of American researchers led by Fu analyzed various factors at work in the "vapor pressure deficit" (VPD), which indicates how dry the air is. The VPD represents the difference between the amount of water actually present in the atmosphere and the maximum that the atmosphere could hold. The greater the deficit, the more water is drawn into the air from soil and plants, drying them out and creating conditions that are increasingly conducive to fires. Also Read | COP26 climate summit: World leaders pledge to end deforestation by 2030 Scientists have determined that the increase in wildfires in the western United States is closely linked to this deficit during the warm season. Between May and September, the number of days with a high VPD increased 94 per cent between 2001 and 2008 compared to the previous period, the study said. According to Fu and her colleagues' calculations, "natural" atmospheric variations were only responsible for an average 32 per cent increase in VPD. The remaining 68 per cent of the increase in atmospheric water deficit over the past 20 years is due to global warming, which is largely caused by human activities. "Prior to 2000, we can explain this fire weather pretty well just using weather patterns," said Fu, a climatologist at the University of California UCLA. "But now we can only explain 30 percent of what we see with fire weather." Also Read | By 2030, climate change may trigger 24% dip in global corn yields, says study Some models show anthropogenic, or human-originated, warming could explain up to 88 per cent of the anomalies seen in the VPD, the study found. In August 2020, when California suffered the largest fire ever recorded in the region -- the August Complex Fire, which alone burned nearly 4,200 square kilometres (1,600 square miles) -- so-called anthropogenic warming was responsible for about 50 per cent of the "unprecedented high" moisture deficit, the study said. According to climate experts, due to greenhouse gases generated by human activity, primarily fossil fuel use, the planet has already warmed about 1.1 degrees Celsius since the pre-industrial era. Most of the warming has occurred in the last 50 years.

Climate change main cause of fires in US west: Study

World leaders are facing calls for urgent action to limit dangerous temperature rises as they gather for a historic COP26 Climate summit in Glasglow, UK.

COP26 Summit in Glasglow: World leaders face urgent call to tackle climate crisis

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the climate change is a huge threat and the past few decades have proven that nobody has remained untouched by it.

Climate change is a massive threat to the world, says Indian PM Modi at COP26 Summit

Global corn yields, among other staple produces, may sink by nearly a quarter or 24 per cent by 2030 due to the climate change rapidly flipping weather patterns around the world, said a new study by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). &nbsp;&nbsp;

The wheat yields, at the same time, can grow by&nbsp;17 per cent. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-as-joe-biden-seems-to-fall-asleep-at-the-cop26-twitter-takes-aim-at-him-426031" hreflang="en">Watch: As Joe Biden seems to fall asleep at the COP26, Twitter takes aim at him</a>

Published in the journal ‘Nature Food’, the study was a collaborative effort from groups, such as NASA and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA). &nbsp;

Rising temperatures and shifts in rainfall and human-made greenhouse gas emissions have already begun to cause effects&nbsp;and will make it harder to grow corn, found researchers. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-climate-summit-world-leaders-pledge-to-end-deforestation-by-2030-425988" hreflang="en">COP26 climate summit: World leaders pledge to end deforestation by 2030</a>

They also found that the production cuts are also occurring sooner than expected as compared to past studies, said a Bloomberg report. &nbsp;

In a statement, lead author Jonas Jaegermeyr said, “Even under optimistic climate change scenarios, where societies enact ambitious efforts to limit global temperature rise, global agriculture is facing a new climate reality…And with the interconnectedness of the global food system, impacts in even one region’s breadbasket will be felt worldwide.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Global corn yields, among other staple produces, may sink by nearly a quarter or 24 per cent by 2030 due to the climate change rapidly flipping weather patterns around the world, said a new study by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Global corn yields, among other staple produces, may sink by nearly a quarter or 24 per cent by 2030 due to the climate change rapidly flipping weather patterns around the world, said a new study by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The wheat yields, at the same time, can grow by 17 per cent. Also Read | Watch: As Joe Biden seems to fall asleep at the COP26, Twitter takes aim at him Published in the journal ‘Nature Food’, the study was a collaborative effort from groups, such as NASA and the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA). Rising temperatures and shifts in rainfall and human-made greenhouse gas emissions have already begun to cause effects and will make it harder to grow corn, found researchers. Also Read | COP26 climate summit: World leaders pledge to end deforestation by 2030 They also found that the production cuts are also occurring sooner than expected as compared to past studies, said a Bloomberg report. In a statement, lead author Jonas Jaegermeyr said, “Even under optimistic climate change scenarios, where societies enact ambitious efforts to limit global temperature rise, global agriculture is facing a new climate reality…And with the interconnectedness of the global food system, impacts in even one region’s breadbasket will be felt worldwide.” (With inputs from agencies)

By 2030, climate change may trigger 24% dip in global corn yields, says study

More than 100 world leaders have promised to end and reverse deforestation by 2030, in the COP26 climate summit's first major deal.

COP26 Summit: World leaders promise to reverse deforestation by 2030

Speaking in a video message, Queen Elizabeth has told world leaders at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow that now is the 'time for action' on climate change and urged to show 'true statesmanship'.

Queen Elizabeth addresses world leaders at COP26 climate summit, urges 'true statesmanship'

As the COP26 begins in Glasgow, the spotlight is now being focused on climate change more than ever. From politicians to scientists to children, many have spoken out against the climate crisis, urging the world to act.&nbsp;

To help limit global warming, scientists recommend quick and drastic changes to society, including less meat consumption, less travel by aeroplane as well as fewer internal combustion engine cars.

Studies have shown that reducing meat consumption can greatly decrease our carbon footprint, and a Vegan diet just might be the single-best way to save this planet.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-countries-must-invest-in-tech-and-innovation-to-combat-global-food-crisis-395533">Why countries must invest in tech and innovation to combat global food crisis</a>

Researchers from the Universities of Oxford and Minnesota published a study in 2019 that identified foods that are not only good for our bodies but also good for the environment.

According to the study, foods like whole-grain cereals, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts are associated with improved health and have a very low impact on the environment. Unprocessed and processed red meat, however, have negative environmental impacts. Furthermore, these are also consistently associated with the highest levels of heart disease risk.

While other animal-based products such as milk and dairy products have a smaller, more moderate impact on the climate and a lesser impact on disease risk than meat, its contribution to climate change via deforestation for animal grazing is still monumental.&nbsp;

Globally, meat and dairy products are responsible for 60 per cent of agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, yet they only provide only about 18 per cent of calories and 37 per cent of protein.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-taste-the-future-with-lab-grown-chicken-food-revolution-393558">Israelis taste the future with lab-grown chicken 'food revolution'</a>

Considering the fact that meat is not only bad for the environment, but also for your body, is it worth switching to a vegan diet? Can we do it?&nbsp;

A lot of people find it difficult to give up meat because of the taste. But what if there were another option? A cruelty-free and healthier option?&nbsp;

Now, there exists something called mock-meat. There is a plant-based version available on the market. There are also some ongoing research projects investigating how to grow it in labs. &nbsp;

Concerns about environmental and ethical issues surrounding the meat industry have increased interest in vegetable alternatives and the potential for lab-grown products. Scientists and environmentalists see clean meat as a potential breakthrough in the fight against climate change.

Market research firm Global Information estimates that cell-based meat's market share could rise from $1.64 million to $2.79 billion by 2030.

Companies such as Aleph Farms and Memphis Meats are trying to produce beef and poultry by nurturing animal cells in a petri dish and then in large bioreactors that resemble beer-brewing vats.

Also read |&nbsp;Gravitas: Lab-grown meat debuts at Singapore diner

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-lab-grown-meat-debuts-at-singapore-diner-351909/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Researchers at Japan's Osaka University are using 3D printers to create a sustainable alternative to wagyu beef, and they believe the move will help address food shortages in the future.

A Dutch start-up called Meatable may soon also offer for its eco-conscious consumers a solution to giving up meat; pork grown in a lab without harming animals or harming the environment.

As the COP26 begins in Glasgow, the spotlight is now being focused on climate change more than ever. From politicians to scientists to children, many have spoken out against the climate crisis, urging the world to act.

As the COP26 begins in Glasgow, the spotlight is now being focused on climate change more than ever. From politicians to scientists to children, many have spoken out against the climate crisis, urging the world to act. To help limit global warming, scientists recommend quick and drastic changes to society, including less meat consumption, less travel by aeroplane as well as fewer internal combustion engine cars. Studies have shown that reducing meat consumption can greatly decrease our carbon footprint, and a Vegan diet just might be the single-best way to save this planet. Also read | Why countries must invest in tech and innovation to combat global food crisis Researchers from the Universities of Oxford and Minnesota published a study in 2019 that identified foods that are not only good for our bodies but also good for the environment. According to the study, foods like whole-grain cereals, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts are associated with improved health and have a very low impact on the environment. Unprocessed and processed red meat, however, have negative environmental impacts. Furthermore, these are also consistently associated with the highest levels of heart disease risk. While other animal-based products such as milk and dairy products have a smaller, more moderate impact on the climate and a lesser impact on disease risk than meat, its contribution to climate change via deforestation for animal grazing is still monumental. Globally, meat and dairy products are responsible for 60 per cent of agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, yet they only provide only about 18 per cent of calories and 37 per cent of protein. Also read | Israelis taste the future with lab-grown chicken 'food revolution' Considering the fact that meat is not only bad for the environment, but also for your body, is it worth switching to a vegan diet? Can we do it? A lot of people find it difficult to give up meat because of the taste. But what if there were another option? A cruelty-free and healthier option? Now, there exists something called mock-meat. There is a plant-based version available on the market. There are also some ongoing research projects investigating how to grow it in labs. Concerns about environmental and ethical issues surrounding the meat industry have increased interest in vegetable alternatives and the potential for lab-grown products. Scientists and environmentalists see clean meat as a potential breakthrough in the fight against climate change. Market research firm Global Information estimates that cell-based meat's market share could rise from $1.64 million to $2.79 billion by 2030. Companies such as Aleph Farms and Memphis Meats are trying to produce beef and poultry by nurturing animal cells in a petri dish and then in large bioreactors that resemble beer-brewing vats. Also read | Gravitas: Lab-grown meat debuts at Singapore diner Researchers at Japan's Osaka University are using 3D printers to create a sustainable alternative to wagyu beef, and they believe the move will help address food shortages in the future. A Dutch start-up called Meatable may soon also offer for its eco-conscious consumers a solution to giving up meat; pork grown in a lab without harming animals or harming the environment.

World Vegan Day: Are you willing to switch to lab-grown meat to combat climate-change?

President Joe Biden while addressing the UN climate change summit also known as COP26 said that the US will be able to meet&nbsp;the emissions target set at the climate summit in April.

"Glasgow must be the kick-off of decades and decades of our shared ambition," the US president told the leaders present at the summit while adding, "This is a decisive stage in which we can prove ourselves."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eco-hypocrite-leaders-businessmen-arrive-in-fuel-guzzling-private-jets-at-cop26-425903">Also Read:&nbsp;Leaders, businessmen arrive in fuel-guzzling private jets at COP26</a>

The US president said his administration is ready to help developing countries accelerate their clean energy transition.

"US will be able to meet ambitious target I set in the Leaders' Summit on Climate back in April of reducing US emissions by 50-52 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030," Biden informed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cop26-why-the-world-is-worried-about-china-and-co2-levels-425836">Also Read:&nbsp;Why the world is worried about China and CO2 levels</a>

"We will demonstrate to the world that the US is not only back at the table but, hopefully, lead by the power of our example," Biden added.

"I know it has not been a case, that is why my administration is working overtime to show our climate commitments in actions, not words," he said.

Earlier in the day, UK PM Boris Johnson had warned world leaders that "anger and the impatience of the world will be uncontainable" if the world failed to meet climate objectives.

"If the leaders fluff our lines or miss our cue generations as-yet-unborn will not forgive us", the British prime minister said.

(With inputs from Agencies)

President Joe Biden while addressing the UN climate change summit also known as COP26 said that the US will be able to meet the emissions target set at the climate summit in April.

President Joe Biden while addressing the UN climate change summit also known as COP26 said that the US will be able to meet the emissions target set at the climate summit in April. "Glasgow must be the kick-off of decades and decades of our shared ambition," the US president told the leaders present at the summit while adding, "This is a decisive stage in which we can prove ourselves." Also Read: Leaders, businessmen arrive in fuel-guzzling private jets at COP26 The US president said his administration is ready to help developing countries accelerate their clean energy transition. "US will be able to meet ambitious target I set in the Leaders' Summit on Climate back in April of reducing US emissions by 50-52 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030," Biden informed. Also Read: Why the world is worried about China and CO2 levels "We will demonstrate to the world that the US is not only back at the table but, hopefully, lead by the power of our example," Biden added. "I know it has not been a case, that is why my administration is working overtime to show our climate commitments in actions, not words," he said. Earlier in the day, UK PM Boris Johnson had warned world leaders that "anger and the impatience of the world will be uncontainable" if the world failed to meet climate objectives. "If the leaders fluff our lines or miss our cue generations as-yet-unborn will not forgive us", the British prime minister said. (With inputs from Agencies)

US will reduce emissions by 50-52% below 2005 levels by 2030, says Biden at COP26

The COP26 climate summit is underway in Glasglow. Nearly 120 countries are seeking consensus on rules to cut emissions, mechanisms to adapt to climate events, and compensation for nations for loss, damage.

Global leaders to reiterate pledge on climate in Glasglow

In the midst of the world's fight against climate change and the UN's climate change summit, also known as&nbsp;COP26, beginning in Glasgow, several delegates arrived in private planes which spewed tonnes of CO2.

In their quest to save the planet from greenhouse gases, the top brass travelling to Scotland for COP26 will generate a staggering amount of emissions by using their private planes for the trip, reports claimed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cop26-why-the-world-is-worried-about-china-and-co2-levels-425836" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/trending/cop26-why-the-world-is-worried-about-china-and-co2-levels-425836&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi8muKeqvfzAhVVXHwKHR9PCiQQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ta-yuELA4tuj2woAqKnfv" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cop26-why-the-world-is-worried-about-china-and-co2-levels-425836" target="_blank">COP26: Why the world is worried about China and CO2 levels</a>

According to reports, more than 400 private planes carrying business leaders and politicians to this week's conference will spew out 13,000 tons of CO2. Ironically, these bigwigs and their private jets' emissions will exceed the average annual emissions of roughly 1,600 Scots.

From Japan to the United States, to Israel to even the United Kingdom itself, world leaders and heads of state will be among those taking private jets.&nbsp;

Earlier today, US President Joe Biden arrived aboard Air Force One. The trip follows the president's trip from Washington to Rome for the G20 summit this weekend. Global leaders pledged "meaningful and effective" climate action at the G20 summit, but offered little information about how they will limit global temperatures from rising more than 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-can-get-real-on-coal-cars-cash-and-trees-uk-pm-johnson-warns-world-leaders-at-cop26-425888">We can get real on coal, cars, cash and trees, UK PM Johnson warns world leaders at COP26</a>

In the Vatican&nbsp;on Friday, while on his way to meet the Pope, Joe Biden deployed a massive motorcade, 85 gas-guzzling cars long parade to be exact. Today, according to reports, he had a similarly long entourage on his way from the airport to the summit venue.

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Here comes Biden at the Vatican to meet with the Pope ahead of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a> . His personal vehicle convoy puts your carbon footprint into the shade for the next 20 years, such is the hypocrisy of this Willy Waving fiasco! <a href="https://t.co/cnCAO1jJFv">pic.twitter.com/cnCAO1jJFv</a>
— PonteJack (@somersetlevel) <a href="https://twitter.com/somersetlevel/status/1454159632105185290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Critics on the internet have blasted Biden and others for their exorbitant displays. A number of the participants at COP26 have been called out for claiming to fight climate change while not reducing their enormous carbon footprints.

"Every world leader or dignitary that arrives to @COP26 by private jet is an eco-hypocrite. Fact." writes Nigel Farage, former politician, Leader of the UK Independence Party in a Twitter post.

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Every world leader or dignitary that arrives to <a href="https://twitter.com/COP26?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@COP26</a> by private jet is an eco-hypocrite. Fact.
— Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nigel_Farage/status/1454801203657908224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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For their use of private jets to travel to Rome and Scotland, Prince Charles, the UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, are also among the leaders to have come under criticism. Earlier too, in June, Johnson raised eyebrows when instead of taking the train from London, he flew to Cornwall for the G7 summit.

Some other big names that are facing criticism include Jeff Bezos,&nbsp;Prince Albert of Monaco, and German chancellor Angela Merkel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-country-could-be-underwater-by-the-end-of-the-century-425829">This country could be underwater by the end of the century</a>

Netizens around the world have taken to Twitter to call out these "climate leaders." Check out some of the tweets:&nbsp;

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Hypocrite airways? Jeff Bezos's £48m Gulf Stream leads parade of 400 private jets into COP26 including Prince Albert of Monaco, scores of royals and dozens of 'green' CEOs- as huge traffic jam forces empty planes to fly 30 miles to park <a href="https://t.co/m0Kege65DH">pic.twitter.com/m0Kege65DH</a>
— Space-reporter-news (@Spacereportern1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Spacereportern1/status/1455147036894957575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Jet fuel powered Police aircraft circles Glasgow all morning whilst a private jet from Athens lands during the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a> conference. I’m sure this is helping <a href="https://t.co/MQXLEiqh6m">pic.twitter.com/MQXLEiqh6m</a>
— shuggy hugman (@hughegarty) <a href="https://twitter.com/hughegarty/status/1455148310713577473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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400 private jets into <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a> COP26. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hypocrisy_galore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hypocrisy_galore</a>! 
 
If there is a climate change 1 minute before midnight disaster conference there is every chance that private jets will lead the parade. <a href="https://t.co/VDYPOIjvPC">pic.twitter.com/VDYPOIjvPC</a>
— Iqbal Latif (@ilatif) <a href="https://twitter.com/ilatif/status/1455146065628381189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Private Jet to Glasgow to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoP26</a> 
Private Jet to Glasgow to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoP26</a> 
Private Jet to Glasgow to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoP26</a> 
Private Jet to Glasgow to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoP26</a> 
Private Jet to Glasgow to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoP26</a> 
Private Jet to Glasgow to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoP26</a> 
Private Jet to Glasgow to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoP26</a> 
Private Jet to Glasgow to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoP26</a> 
ok..... <a href="https://t.co/Odq8K8Pc2Y">pic.twitter.com/Odq8K8Pc2Y</a>
— SweenFrank (@SweenFrank) <a href="https://twitter.com/SweenFrank/status/1455093945248145414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a> we're addicted to fossil fools alright they're all running the world into ruin!! How many private jets and helicopters were used to transport all these world leaders to Glasgow, technology is a wonderful thing this day and age, try using it!! <a href="https://t.co/plut8glvaY">pic.twitter.com/plut8glvaY</a>
— stuart hughes (@StuartHughes_) <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartHughes_/status/1455157240143532040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The spreader event where the celebrities arrive by private jets to talk to us about climate change. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a> <a href="https://t.co/QGyhz0kEYa">pic.twitter.com/QGyhz0kEYa</a>
— Tracey T (@ttnaturalhealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/ttnaturalhealth/status/1455094390418980867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Why is it always WE, when the one saying it doesnt believe things should apply to them? 
 
Flown the past few days to Italy, then Italy to Scotland by private jet for cop26. 
 
Needs to change the way WE do things? 🤔 <a href="https://t.co/c8g6qVxqM4">pic.twitter.com/c8g6qVxqM4</a>
— Drewski 💙 (@M1DNS) <a href="https://twitter.com/M1DNS/status/1455077165775589378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a> world “leaders” etc arriving in private jets large motor cage’s the worlds biggest polluters aren’t there and their lecturing us... <a href="https://t.co/E3LPNnSKiK">pic.twitter.com/E3LPNnSKiK</a>
— Tony Sharpe 🍺🎤🦢🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🤘🏻 (@CelticWarrior_3) <a href="https://twitter.com/CelticWarrior_3/status/1455119685670821894?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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They are laughing at you. The 400 private jets used by world ‘leaders’ to get to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COP26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COP26</a> pumped out 13,000 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere, yet they want you to stop eating meat, to stop going on holiday, to buy a new electric car, &amp; to spend thousands of pounds on new boilers. <a href="https://t.co/Phj1wpQvKJ">pic.twitter.com/Phj1wpQvKJ</a>
— Matthew Firth (@MatthewPFirth) <a href="https://twitter.com/MatthewPFirth/status/1455161739801239558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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UN Climate Change Conference Glasgow COP26 
 
Zero carbon? 
The travel arrangements of world leaders and their entourage are a sick joke. 
 
No covid jabs? No problem. 
Worldwide pandemic? Don't be silly. 
 
The utter hypocrisy of it all.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateHoax?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateHoax</a> <a href="https://t.co/gp5Tt19Y2J">https://t.co/gp5Tt19Y2J</a> <a href="https://t.co/NSloawqso2">pic.twitter.com/NSloawqso2</a>
— ♰Pureblood Fifi J (@fifi_j) <a href="https://twitter.com/fifi_j/status/1454149998745108487?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A Lund University study found that private jet travel emits about 40 times more CO2 per passenger than commercial air travel.

According to the non-profit group Finch's Transport and Environment, air emissions from private planes are soaring, contributing to the fact that around half of global aviation emissions come from 1 per cent&nbsp;of the world's population.

Watch |&nbsp;COP26 Summit in Glasglow: Will the world succeed in averting climate disaster?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop26-summit-in-glasglow-will-the-world-succeed-in-averting-climate-disaster-425812/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the midst of the world's fight against climate change and the UN's climate change summit, also known as COP26, beginning in Glasgow, several delegates arrived in private planes which spewed tonnes of CO2.

In the midst of the world's fight against climate change and the UN's climate change summit, also known as COP26, beginning in Glasgow, several delegates arrived in private planes which spewed tonnes of CO2. In their quest to save the planet from greenhouse gases, the top brass travelling to Scotland for COP26 will generate a staggering amount of emissions by using their private planes for the trip, reports claimed. Also read | COP26: Why the world is worried about China and CO2 levels According to reports, more than 400 private planes carrying business leaders and politicians to this week's conference will spew out 13,000 tons of CO2. Ironically, these bigwigs and their private jets' emissions will exceed the average annual emissions of roughly 1,600 Scots. From Japan to the United States, to Israel to even the United Kingdom itself, world leaders and heads of state will be among those taking private jets. Earlier today, US President Joe Biden arrived aboard Air Force One. The trip follows the president's trip from Washington to Rome for the G20 summit this weekend. Global leaders pledged "meaningful and effective" climate action at the G20 summit, but offered little information about how they will limit global temperatures from rising more than 1.5 degrees Celsius. Also read | We can get real on coal, cars, cash and trees, UK PM Johnson warns world leaders at COP26 In the Vatican on Friday, while on his way to meet the Pope, Joe Biden deployed a massive motorcade, 85 gas-guzzling cars long parade to be exact. Today, according to reports, he had a similarly long entourage on his way from the airport to the summit venue. Here comes Biden at the Vatican to meet with the Pope ahead of #COP26 . His personal vehicle convoy puts your carbon footprint into the shade for the next 20 years, such is the hypocrisy of this Willy Waving fiasco! pic.twitter.com/cnCAO1jJFv — PonteJack (@somersetlevel) October 29, 2021 × Critics on the internet have blasted Biden and others for their exorbitant displays. A number of the participants at COP26 have been called out for claiming to fight climate change while not reducing their enormous carbon footprints. "Every world leader or dignitary that arrives to @COP26 by private jet is an eco-hypocrite. Fact." writes Nigel Farage, former politician, Leader of the UK Independence Party in a Twitter post. Every world leader or dignitary that arrives to @COP26 by private jet is an eco-hypocrite. Fact. — Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) October 31, 2021 × For their use of private jets to travel to Rome and Scotland, Prince Charles, the UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, are also among the leaders to have come under criticism. Earlier too, in June, Johnson raised eyebrows when instead of taking the train from London, he flew to Cornwall for the G7 summit. Some other big names that are facing criticism include Jeff Bezos, Prince Albert of Monaco, and German chancellor Angela Merkel. Also read | This country could be underwater by the end of the century Netizens around the world have taken to Twitter to call out these "climate leaders." Check out some of the tweets: Hypocrite airways? Jeff Bezos's £48m Gulf Stream leads parade of 400 private jets into COP26 including Prince Albert of Monaco, scores of royals and dozens of 'green' CEOs- as huge traffic jam forces empty planes to fly 30 miles to park pic.twitter.com/m0Kege65DH — Space-reporter-news (@Spacereportern1) November 1, 2021 × Jet fuel powered Police aircraft circles Glasgow all morning whilst a private jet from Athens lands during the #COP26 conference. I’m sure this is helping pic.twitter.com/MQXLEiqh6m — shuggy hugman (@hughegarty) November 1, 2021 × 400 private jets into #COP26 COP26. #Hypocrisy_galore! If there is a climate change 1 minute before midnight disaster conference there is every chance that private jets will lead the parade. pic.twitter.com/VDYPOIjvPC — Iqbal Latif (@ilatif) November 1, 2021 × Private Jet to Glasgow to #CoP26 Private Jet to Glasgow to #CoP26 Private Jet to Glasgow to #CoP26 Private Jet to Glasgow to #CoP26 Private Jet to Glasgow to #CoP26 Private Jet to Glasgow to #CoP26 Private Jet to Glasgow to #CoP26 Private Jet to Glasgow to #CoP26 ok..... pic.twitter.com/Odq8K8Pc2Y — SweenFrank (@SweenFrank) November 1, 2021 × #COP26 we're addicted to fossil fools alright they're all running the world into ruin!! How many private jets and helicopters were used to transport all these world leaders to Glasgow, technology is a wonderful thing this day and age, try using it!! pic.twitter.com/plut8glvaY — stuart hughes (@StuartHughes_) November 1, 2021 × The spreader event where the celebrities arrive by private jets to talk to us about climate change. #COP26 pic.twitter.com/QGyhz0kEYa — Tracey T (@ttnaturalhealth) November 1, 2021 × Why is it always WE, when the one saying it doesnt believe things should apply to them? Flown the past few days to Italy, then Italy to Scotland by private jet for cop26. Needs to change the way WE do things? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/c8g6qVxqM4 — Drewski 💙 (@M1DNS) November 1, 2021 × #COP26 world “leaders” etc arriving in private jets large motor cage’s the worlds biggest polluters aren’t there and their lecturing us... pic.twitter.com/E3LPNnSKiK — Tony Sharpe 🍺🎤🦢🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🤘🏻 (@CelticWarrior_3) November 1, 2021 × They are laughing at you. The 400 private jets used by world ‘leaders’ to get to #COP26 pumped out 13,000 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere, yet they want you to stop eating meat, to stop going on holiday, to buy a new electric car, & to spend thousands of pounds on new boilers. pic.twitter.com/Phj1wpQvKJ — Matthew Firth (@MatthewPFirth) November 1, 2021 × UN Climate Change Conference Glasgow COP26 Zero carbon? The travel arrangements of world leaders and their entourage are a sick joke. No covid jabs? No problem. Worldwide pandemic? Don't be silly. The utter hypocrisy of it all.#ClimateHoax https://t.co/gp5Tt19Y2J pic.twitter.com/NSloawqso2 — ♰Pureblood Fifi J (@fifi_j) October 29, 2021 × A Lund University study found that private jet travel emits about 40 times more CO2 per passenger than commercial air travel. According to the non-profit group Finch's Transport and Environment, air emissions from private planes are soaring, contributing to the fact that around half of global aviation emissions come from 1 per cent of the world's population. Watch | COP26 Summit in Glasglow: Will the world succeed in averting climate disaster?

'Eco-hypocrite': Leaders, businessmen arrive in fuel-guzzling private jets at COP26

The Maldives, an archipelago of low-lying islands in the Indian Ocean, faces a triple existential crisis brought about by climate change.

The rising sea levels are&nbsp;threatening to submerge some islands of the archipelago and scientists predict that this disaster could occur within the next decade.

Another threat to the under-pressure islands is the abrupt change in seasonal weather patterns.&nbsp;The frequency and intensity of monsoons and tropical storms have increased. It has accelerated the pace of coastal erosion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/which-countries-and-blocs-are-major-players-at-the-glasgow-climate-summit-424619">Which countries and blocs are major players at the Glasgow climate summit?</a>

The resulting shrinkage of islands is pretty dramatic.&nbsp;

However, the loss of atoll coral is perhaps one of the most pressing emergencies.&nbsp;As the sea temperatures rise, coral reefs are dying and this has devastating effects both on land and at sea.

Not only are coral reefs an essential part of the entire marine ecosystem, but they protect the island's coastline as well.

Azim Musthag, a marine scientist with the Small Island Research Group in Male, the capital of the Maldives, has been monitoring the island archipelago's coral reefs. He reports that his findings are troubling;&nbsp;most of the coral reefs are dead or aren't recovering quickly enough which&nbsp;is bad for a nation like the Maldives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/developed-nations-enjoyed-fruits-of-energy-must-reduce-their-emissions-india-425696" hreflang="en">Developed nations enjoyed fruits of energy, must reduce their emissions: India</a>

He says that the coral reef is the basis of life in the Maldives. As a country in the middle of the Indian Ocean, without other sources of nutrients around, the reef supports nearly all of Maldives's marine life.

Musthag emphasized that it is time to act, adding that there is a need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, or better yet bring them below zero.&nbsp;Investing in or restoring blue-carbon ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass meadows, and natural forests is now a necessity.

He added that the time for action is less, and something needs to be done fast. He believes that the major countries and players are doing little about it, or aren't moving as fast&nbsp;as they need to.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-glasgow-fails-the-whole-thing-fails-uk-pm-johnson-warns-on-cop26-425669" hreflang="en">'If Glasgow fails, the whole thing fails': UK PM Johnson warns on COP26</a>

Climate change is increasing sea levels, and data for the Maldives indicates an increase of three to four millimetres over the past year alone.&nbsp;This means that in a decade's time, these low-lying islands could be buried completely underwater.

Watch |&nbsp;Maldives might end in 2100, government urges rich nations to meet emissions target

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-might-end-in-2100-government-urges-rich-nations-to-meet-emissions-target-422716/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Dr Abdulla Naseer, Minister of State for Environment, is concerned that people may have to move to another island.

The Maldivian government may have to take extreme measures like forceful evacuation if a solution is not found soon.

For years, climate change has been hailed as a threat to the Maldives. Now, increasing pressure is looming over the islands. Already for too long now, the warning signs have been ignored.&nbsp;

The Maldives, an archipelago of low-lying islands in the Indian Ocean, faces a triple existential crisis brought about by climate change. The rising sea levels are threatening to submerge some islands of the archipelago and scientists predict that this disaster could occur within the next decade.

The Maldives, an archipelago of low-lying islands in the Indian Ocean, faces a triple existential crisis brought about by climate change. The rising sea levels are threatening to submerge some islands of the archipelago and scientists predict that this disaster could occur within the next decade. Another threat to the under-pressure islands is the abrupt change in seasonal weather patterns. The frequency and intensity of monsoons and tropical storms have increased. It has accelerated the pace of coastal erosion. Also read | Which countries and blocs are major players at the Glasgow climate summit? The resulting shrinkage of islands is pretty dramatic. However, the loss of atoll coral is perhaps one of the most pressing emergencies. As the sea temperatures rise, coral reefs are dying and this has devastating effects both on land and at sea. Not only are coral reefs an essential part of the entire marine ecosystem, but they protect the island's coastline as well. Azim Musthag, a marine scientist with the Small Island Research Group in Male, the capital of the Maldives, has been monitoring the island archipelago's coral reefs. He reports that his findings are troubling; most of the coral reefs are dead or aren't recovering quickly enough which is bad for a nation like the Maldives. Also read | Developed nations enjoyed fruits of energy, must reduce their emissions: India He says that the coral reef is the basis of life in the Maldives. As a country in the middle of the Indian Ocean, without other sources of nutrients around, the reef supports nearly all of Maldives's marine life. Musthag emphasized that it is time to act, adding that there is a need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, or better yet bring them below zero. Investing in or restoring blue-carbon ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass meadows, and natural forests is now a necessity. He added that the time for action is less, and something needs to be done fast. He believes that the major countries and players are doing little about it, or aren't moving as fast as they need to. Also read | 'If Glasgow fails, the whole thing fails': UK PM Johnson warns on COP26 Climate change is increasing sea levels, and data for the Maldives indicates an increase of three to four millimetres over the past year alone. This means that in a decade's time, these low-lying islands could be buried completely underwater. Watch | Maldives might end in 2100, government urges rich nations to meet emissions target Dr Abdulla Naseer, Minister of State for Environment, is concerned that people may have to move to another island. The Maldivian government may have to take extreme measures like forceful evacuation if a solution is not found soon. For years, climate change has been hailed as a threat to the Maldives. Now, increasing pressure is looming over the islands. Already for too long now, the warning signs have been ignored.

This country could be underwater by the end of the century

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday urged world leaders attending the UN climate change conference in Glasgow to commit to cutting carbon emissions, warning efforts to halt runaway global warming will fail if they do not.

"If Glasgow fails, then the whole thing fails," he told a news conference after a meeting of G20 leaders in Rome, where they agreed a target to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

COP26 president Alok Sharma opened the two-week summit in Scotland's biggest city earlier on Sunday, saying the talks were the "last, best hope" to keep that target alive.

Johnson echoed that ultimatum, even after the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement, which saw countries agree to cap global warming to "well below" 2C above pre-industrial levels, and 1.5C if possible.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/when-will-we-see-some-action-on-the-talks-by-world-leaders-at-the-g20-summit-425643">WATCH |</a>

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"If we don't act now, the Paris Agreement will be looked at in the future not as the moment humanity opened its eyes to the problem but the moment it flinched and turned away," he told reporters.

Johnson, whose government has outlined plans to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, welcomed moves to reduce pollution from countries including Saudi Arabia, Russia and the United States.

But he said that, and a G20 commitment to reduce reliance on coal in the coming years, were "but drops in a rapidly warming ocean".

An increasing number of countries had outlined carbon reduction plans in the run-up to the summit, he said, but it was still not enough.

"If we are going to prevent COP26 from being a failure, then that must change," he added, warning that without further action, the Paris Agreement would be "just a piece of paper".&nbsp;

Johnson, known for his political optimism, put the onus on his fellow leaders to make "real progress".

Asked specifically about the chances of success at the summit, he said: "Six out of 10. It's nip and tuck. It's touch and go. We could do it or we could fail by the middle of November.

"We've inched forward (at the G20). We've put ourselves in a reasonable position for COP in Glasgow but it's going to be very difficult in the next few days."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday urged world leaders attending the UN climate change conference in Glasgow to commit to cutting carbon emissions, warning efforts to halt runaway global warming will fail if they do not.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday urged world leaders attending the UN climate change conference in Glasgow to commit to cutting carbon emissions, warning efforts to halt runaway global warming will fail if they do not. "If Glasgow fails, then the whole thing fails," he told a news conference after a meeting of G20 leaders in Rome, where they agreed a target to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. COP26 president Alok Sharma opened the two-week summit in Scotland's biggest city earlier on Sunday, saying the talks were the "last, best hope" to keep that target alive. Johnson echoed that ultimatum, even after the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement, which saw countries agree to cap global warming to "well below" 2C above pre-industrial levels, and 1.5C if possible. WATCH | "If we don't act now, the Paris Agreement will be looked at in the future not as the moment humanity opened its eyes to the problem but the moment it flinched and turned away," he told reporters. Johnson, whose government has outlined plans to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, welcomed moves to reduce pollution from countries including Saudi Arabia, Russia and the United States. But he said that, and a G20 commitment to reduce reliance on coal in the coming years, were "but drops in a rapidly warming ocean". An increasing number of countries had outlined carbon reduction plans in the run-up to the summit, he said, but it was still not enough. "If we are going to prevent COP26 from being a failure, then that must change," he added, warning that without further action, the Paris Agreement would be "just a piece of paper". Johnson, known for his political optimism, put the onus on his fellow leaders to make "real progress". Asked specifically about the chances of success at the summit, he said: "Six out of 10. It's nip and tuck. It's touch and go. We could do it or we could fail by the middle of November. "We've inched forward (at the G20). We've put ourselves in a reasonable position for COP in Glasgow but it's going to be very difficult in the next few days."

'If Glasgow fails, the whole thing fails': UK PM Johnson warns on COP26

Hundreds of activists rallied in Glasgow to urge world leaders to act on climate change. Joining them was Swedish teen green icon Greta Thunberg.

COP26 Summit: Climate activists seek action from governments

As the world leaders gather in Glasgow to talk about climate change and pledge to bring positive changes, Taliban did not want to be left out. <o:p></o:p>

When leaders from around the world were pledging, Taliban too released a statement urging nations to come together and help fight climate change, especially in Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p>

"Afghanistan has a fragile climate. There is need for tremendous work,"&nbsp;Suhail Shaheen, IEA Permanent Representative-desig. to UN, said in a tweet.

<o:p></o:p>

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Afghanistan has a fragile climate. There is need for tremendous work. Some climate change projects which have already been approved and were funded by Green Climate Fund, 
UNDP, Afghan Aid, should fully resume work. This, on the one hand, will help change the climate
— Suhail Shaheen. محمد سهیل شاهین (@suhailshaheen1) <a href="https://twitter.com/suhailshaheen1/status/1454765037688655872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He also urged several climate-related organisations to resume their climate change projects to ensure that locals do not suffer in the incoming harsh winter and for the next years ahead.<o:p></o:p>

"Some climate change projects which have already been approved and were funded by Green Climate Fund, UNDP, Afghan Aid, should fully resume work. This, on the one hand, will help change the climate for the better and on the other hand, will provide job opportunities for people. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is committed to providing security and safe environment for work of NGOs and charity organizations," his tweet added.<o:p></o:p>

Taliban’s statement has come at a time when world leaders have gathered in Rome to discuss ways of tackling climate crisis which is affecting several industries and health of people all around the world. "The fight against climate change is the defining challenge of our times," Italian Prime Minister&nbsp;Mario Draghi&nbsp;said in Rome as he urged other leaders to come together and act now or "pay a much higher price later and risk failing".&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Leaders have now moved to Glasgow where they will be participating in the &nbsp;2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), which is scheduled to take place between October 31 and November 12.<o:p></o:p>

"Let’s be clear - there is a serious risk that Glasgow will not deliver," UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told leaders of the Group of 20 (G20) rich nations last week. "Even if recent pledges were clear and credible — and there are serious questions about some of them — we are still careening towards climate catastrophe."<o:p></o:p>

Nobody has yet commented on Taliban’s request to work on climate. UK Prime Minister has, meanwhile, pledged to give £50 million to help the women and girls stuck in the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. "The UK will give £50m to that end, and I urge the G20 to prioritise the rights of women and girls in all our international development efforts," he tweeted.<o:p></o:p>

As the world leaders gather in Glasgow to talk about climate change and pledge to bring positive changes, Taliban did not want to be left out. When leaders from around the world were pledging, Taliban too released a statement urging nations to come together and help fight climate change, especially in Afghanistan.

As the world leaders gather in Glasgow to talk about climate change and pledge to bring positive changes, Taliban did not want to be left out. When leaders from around the world were pledging, Taliban too released a statement urging nations to come together and help fight climate change, especially in Afghanistan. "Afghanistan has a fragile climate. There is need for tremendous work," Suhail Shaheen, IEA Permanent Representative-desig. to UN, said in a tweet. 1/2 Afghanistan has a fragile climate. There is need for tremendous work. Some climate change projects which have already been approved and were funded by Green Climate Fund, UNDP, Afghan Aid, should fully resume work. This, on the one hand, will help change the climate — Suhail Shaheen. محمد سهیل شاهین (@suhailshaheen1) October 31, 2021 × He also urged several climate-related organisations to resume their climate change projects to ensure that locals do not suffer in the incoming harsh winter and for the next years ahead. "Some climate change projects which have already been approved and were funded by Green Climate Fund, UNDP, Afghan Aid, should fully resume work. This, on the one hand, will help change the climate for the better and on the other hand, will provide job opportunities for people. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is committed to providing security and safe environment for work of NGOs and charity organizations," his tweet added. Taliban’s statement has come at a time when world leaders have gathered in Rome to discuss ways of tackling climate crisis which is affecting several industries and health of people all around the world. "The fight against climate change is the defining challenge of our times," Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi said in Rome as he urged other leaders to come together and act now or "pay a much higher price later and risk failing". Leaders have now moved to Glasgow where they will be participating in the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), which is scheduled to take place between October 31 and November 12. "Let’s be clear - there is a serious risk that Glasgow will not deliver," UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told leaders of the Group of 20 (G20) rich nations last week. "Even if recent pledges were clear and credible — and there are serious questions about some of them — we are still careening towards climate catastrophe." Nobody has yet commented on Taliban’s request to work on climate. UK Prime Minister has, meanwhile, pledged to give £50 million to help the women and girls stuck in the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. "The UK will give £50m to that end, and I urge the G20 to prioritise the rights of women and girls in all our international development efforts," he tweeted.

Ahead of COP26, Taliban urges world to help fight climate change

Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi urged&nbsp;world leaders to listen to warnings coming from the scientific community on climate change at the&nbsp;G-20 summit in Rome.&nbsp;

"The fight against climate change is the defining challenge of our times," Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi said as leaders from major economies met in Rome.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ahead-of-cop26-summit-us-president-bidens-85-vehicle-motorcade-raises-emissions-concerns-425520">Watch: President Biden's 85-vehicle motorcade raises emissions' concerns</a>

The Italian prime minister said either "we act now" or "pay a much higher price later and risk failing".&nbsp;The G20 summit is seen as a major stepping stone ahead of the UN climate summit in Glasgow also known as COP26.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi, world leaders visit iconic Trevi fountain

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/g20-summit-pm-modi-world-leaders-visit-iconic-trevi-fountain-425534/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The countries are working towards a joint final communique before closing the summit with curbs&nbsp;on emission&nbsp;being seen as a key target.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-world-makes-new-bid-to-avert-climate-disaster-425496">Also Read:&nbsp;COP26: World makes new bid to avert climate disaster</a>

The summit is under pressure to pledge support to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as officials continue to negotiate a deal.

"Let's not forget that in Paris, in 2015, nothing was decided in advance," Macron said.&nbsp;Newswire AFP quoting sources had said world leaders had agreed to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, the official declaration is expected later on Sunday.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin had announced earlier that they won't be attending the COP26 summit, although they are expected to join through a video link. &nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi urged world leaders to listen to warnings coming from the scientific community on climate change at the G-20 summit in Rome. "The fight against climate change is the defining challenge of our times," Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi said as leaders from major economies met in Rome.

Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi urged world leaders to listen to warnings coming from the scientific community on climate change at the G-20 summit in Rome. "The fight against climate change is the defining challenge of our times," Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi said as leaders from major economies met in Rome. Watch: President Biden's 85-vehicle motorcade raises emissions' concerns The Italian prime minister said either "we act now" or "pay a much higher price later and risk failing". The G20 summit is seen as a major stepping stone ahead of the UN climate summit in Glasgow also known as COP26. Watch: PM Modi, world leaders visit iconic Trevi fountain The countries are working towards a joint final communique before closing the summit with curbs on emission being seen as a key target. Also Read: COP26: World makes new bid to avert climate disaster The summit is under pressure to pledge support to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as officials continue to negotiate a deal. "Let's not forget that in Paris, in 2015, nothing was decided in advance," Macron said. Newswire AFP quoting sources had said world leaders had agreed to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, the official declaration is expected later on Sunday. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin had announced earlier that they won't be attending the COP26 summit, although they are expected to join through a video link. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Pay much higher price later': Italian PM Draghi warns world leaders on climate change

New Zealand set itself an ambitious new emissions reduction target Sunday, with a pledge to halve its net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

The new target, announced as world leaders gather in Glasgow for the critical COP26 summit on climate change, is substantially higher than the previous goal of a 30 per cent reduction set as part of the 2015 Paris agreement.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-aims-of-net-zero-greenhouse-gas-emissions-by-2060-423376">Saudi Arabia aims of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060</a>

New Zealand's enhanced contribution to the global fight on climate change "represents our fair share, and is in line with what's needed if we are to avoid the worst impacts of global warming," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said.

Emissions are currently about the same as they were in 2005 and Climate Change Minister James Shaw described the next decade as "make or break" for the planet.

"To stand a chance of limiting global warming to 1.5C, the science shows we now have about eight years left to almost halve global greenhouse gas emissions," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

"That's eight years for countries to make the necessary plans, put in place policies, implement them, and ultimately deliver the cuts."&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plastics-to-overtake-coals-greenhouse-gas-emissions-by-2030-says-study-422975">US: Plastics to overtake coal’s greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, says study</a>

Under a complex system for determining the contribution to fighting climate change, the cuts will include arrangements helping other countries reduce their emissions, drawing criticism from the opposition National Party.

"National supports using global carbon markets to achieve our targets, but there is no sense in setting a target that over-reaches and simply signs New Zealand up to a huge bill as we buy units from overseas," the party's climate change spokesman Stuart Smith said.

New Zealand set itself an ambitious new emissions reduction target Sunday, with a pledge to halve its net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The new target, announced as world leaders gather in Glasgow for the critical COP26 summit on climate change, is substantially higher than the previous goal of a 30 per cent reduction set as part of the 2015 Paris agreement.

New Zealand set itself an ambitious new emissions reduction target Sunday, with a pledge to halve its net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The new target, announced as world leaders gather in Glasgow for the critical COP26 summit on climate change, is substantially higher than the previous goal of a 30 per cent reduction set as part of the 2015 Paris agreement. Also Read | Saudi Arabia aims of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060 New Zealand's enhanced contribution to the global fight on climate change "represents our fair share, and is in line with what's needed if we are to avoid the worst impacts of global warming," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. Emissions are currently about the same as they were in 2005 and Climate Change Minister James Shaw described the next decade as "make or break" for the planet. "To stand a chance of limiting global warming to 1.5C, the science shows we now have about eight years left to almost halve global greenhouse gas emissions," he said in a statement. "That's eight years for countries to make the necessary plans, put in place policies, implement them, and ultimately deliver the cuts." Also Read | US: Plastics to overtake coal’s greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, says study Under a complex system for determining the contribution to fighting climate change, the cuts will include arrangements helping other countries reduce their emissions, drawing criticism from the opposition National Party. "National supports using global carbon markets to achieve our targets, but there is no sense in setting a target that over-reaches and simply signs New Zealand up to a huge bill as we buy units from overseas," the party's climate change spokesman Stuart Smith said.

Ahead of COP26, New Zealand announces to halve net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other world leaders are all set to participate in G-20 Summit’s second session on climate change today. Meanwhile, the first session of the G20 Rome Summit kicked off on Saturday as world leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi gathered to discuss the global economy and health.

G20 Summit: Indian PM Narendra Modi all set to attend 2nd session

Protesters stage protest in several parts of the globe to lobby against the use of fossil fuels in the run-up to the start of the UN climate summit in the Scottish city of Glasgow. The protesters are demanding that the global financial system stop investing in the use of fossil fuels.

COP26 summit: Protests across globe ahead of climate summit

The US president, who has vowed to tackle a climate crisis he has described as an “existential threat” to civilization, will head crucial climate talks in Scotland. Biden is facing criticism from climate activists who claim Biden’s actions have yet to match his words.

COP26 Summit: What happened to Joe Biden's promises?

The 13 days long COP26 Summit will kick-start from October 31. The summit in Glasgow, which is being co-chaired by UK and Italy, will see participation by heads of state and governments from over 120 nations.

COP26 to start from October 31, over 120 nations to participate

In pics: Climate activists demand action ahead of COP26 summit

On November 1, leaders from around the world will gather at Glasgow for the biggest climate summit ever and the stakes could not be higher.&nbsp;Here’s a really simple guide about everything you need to know about the climate crisis.&nbsp;

1. What is climate change?

Climate is the weather of a certain area over a long period of time. But when it starts changing over time, it’s called climate change. This could be a difference in how much rain a place usually gets. Or the region could become drier. Storms can become more frequent and deadlier.&nbsp;

Climate Change is also a change in Earth’s climate: a change in its temperature. While weather can change in a matter of hours, climate takes hundreds or even millions of years to change.&nbsp;

2. Is the world getting warmer?

Yes. Scientists say the world is now 1.2 degrees Celcius warmer that it was in the 19th century. And we humans are to blame for it. This rise in the planet’s temperature is due to human activity of using oil, gas and coal for various purposes.&nbsp;Collectively, they are called fossil fuels. And when they burn, they release greenhouse gases (GHG), mainly carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. These gases trap the sun’s heat inside the earth’s atmosphere, causing the temperature of the planet to rise.&nbsp;

3. Why is this dangerous?

As Earth gets hotter and hotter, it affects your regular weather programming. So the world will experience more extreme climate events. Here are a few examples:&nbsp;

<ol>
	<li>longer, hotter heatwaves&nbsp;</li>
	<li>More persistent droughts&nbsp;</li>
	<li>More wildfires&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Extreme rainfall events like flooding, storms&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

A hotter planet will also lead to rising sea levels due to melting ice. Rising sea level threatens to put island nations, coastal cities under water, displacing millions of people. Animals will find it harder to get food and water where they live. Scientists believe at least 550 species could be lost this century if action is not taken.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<img alt="Here are 10 questions to understand climate change" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a1e88f9-9acd-4509-a8b8-df4f1cb936d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/drought%202.png" />

&nbsp;

4. What needs to be done?

We need to slow down the increase of our planet’s temperature. Preferably to 1.5 C by the year 2100. Think of the planet as coming down with a fever. The hotter it gets, the worse it is.&nbsp;

5. What is COP26? And how is it relevant?&nbsp;

COP26 stands for the Conference Of the Parties. It’s the annual conference of 197 countries who are part of the UN convention on Climate Change.&nbsp;This time, world leaders are coming together in Glasgow to bring out a more concrete plan to limit global warming, working on promises and goals set out in 2015, in what is known as the&nbsp;Paris Agreement.&nbsp;

The likely targets will be to agree on a plan to limit the rise in temperature to 1.5 C, new goals from countries to reduce carbon emissions by 2030, and $100 billion to be given to poorer nations to fight climate change.

6. What is the Paris Agreement?&nbsp;

The 2015 Paris Agreement was a landmark moment because it was there for the first time that almost all the world’s countries agreed to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

It was agreed that efforts would be undertaken to limit global temperatures rise to 1.5 C and a promise to achieve&nbsp;net zero emissions&nbsp;between 2050 - 2100. Each country had to set their own emission-reduction targets and review it every five years.&nbsp;

7. Have countries acted on their pledges?

There remains a substantial gap between what governments have promised to do, and the actions they have taken.&nbsp;

The US, the world’s biggest polluter, has promised to cut emissions of GHG by 50 -52% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels. China and Saudi Arabia have set targets to be carbon-neutral by 2060, but experts say this is meaningless unless action is taken now.&nbsp;

So far only Canada, Denmark, the EU, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, South Korea, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, and the UK have signed net-zero commitments into law.&nbsp;

India, the world’s third biggest emitter of GHG after China, has declined from announcing a net zero target. In 2015, India committed to cutting the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33%-35% by 2030 from 2005 levels.

Only 2 countries, Suriname and Bhutan, have already achieved net zero emissions.

In all, over 120 countries have set some form of net-zero targets.&nbsp;

8. A brief segue: What is a net zero emissions target?

Think of it as a scale. On one hand, we have greenhouse gases that are not good for the planet and we have natural process (trees) which can offset them. So there needs to be a balance between GHG emissions produced and GHG taken out of the atmosphere.&nbsp;

’Net zero emissions’ means not producing more greenhouse gases than the environment can offset. But once we stop emitting GHG from fossil fuels, we still need to deal with the emissions that we have already put in the atmosphere over the years. The world has decades of past harm to repair.&nbsp;

9. What is the solution?

First, forget the existence of fossil fuels. The International Energy Agency says that there can be no new coal, oil or gas projects if the world wants to meet their net zero emission targets by 2050.

Fossil fuels are the largest source of GHG emissions.

Shifting to renewable energy is key. Solar, wind and renewable hydrogen do not emit GHG and it is clean, reliable and will become affordable with time. Read about what more you can personally do to combat climate change&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/fighting-climate-change-what-can-you-do-to-help-423750">here</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/fighting-climate-change-what-can-you-do-to-help-423750">.</a>

10. Is it too late?

It is still possible to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. But it will require rapid, far- reaching transformations across every sector- from power, architecture, transport and agriculture. A target is only as good as the policies undermining it.&nbsp;

After decades of governments dragging their feet on tackling climate change, they have found themselves with a crisis that they cannot put off any longer. And with scientists waving red flags in our faces, it is time for governments to act.&nbsp;

On November 1, leaders from around the world will gather at Glasgow for the biggest climate summit ever and the stakes could not be higher. Here’s a really simple guide about everything you need to know about the climate crisis.

On November 1, leaders from around the world will gather at Glasgow for the biggest climate summit ever and the stakes could not be higher. Here’s a really simple guide about everything you need to know about the climate crisis. 1. What is climate change? Climate is the weather of a certain area over a long period of time. But when it starts changing over time, it’s called climate change. This could be a difference in how much rain a place usually gets. Or the region could become drier. Storms can become more frequent and deadlier. Climate Change is also a change in Earth’s climate: a change in its temperature. While weather can change in a matter of hours, climate takes hundreds or even millions of years to change. 2. Is the world getting warmer? Yes. Scientists say the world is now 1.2 degrees Celcius warmer that it was in the 19th century. And we humans are to blame for it. This rise in the planet’s temperature is due to human activity of using oil, gas and coal for various purposes. Collectively, they are called fossil fuels. And when they burn, they release greenhouse gases (GHG), mainly carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. These gases trap the sun’s heat inside the earth’s atmosphere, causing the temperature of the planet to rise. 3. Why is this dangerous? As Earth gets hotter and hotter, it affects your regular weather programming. So the world will experience more extreme climate events. Here are a few examples: longer, hotter heatwaves More persistent droughts More wildfires Extreme rainfall events like flooding, storms A hotter planet will also lead to rising sea levels due to melting ice. Rising sea level threatens to put island nations, coastal cities under water, displacing millions of people. Animals will find it harder to get food and water where they live. Scientists believe at least 550 species could be lost this century if action is not taken. 4. What needs to be done? We need to slow down the increase of our planet’s temperature. Preferably to 1.5 C by the year 2100. Think of the planet as coming down with a fever. The hotter it gets, the worse it is. 5. What is COP26? And how is it relevant? COP26 stands for the Conference Of the Parties. It’s the annual conference of 197 countries who are part of the UN convention on Climate Change. This time, world leaders are coming together in Glasgow to bring out a more concrete plan to limit global warming, working on promises and goals set out in 2015, in what is known as the Paris Agreement. The likely targets will be to agree on a plan to limit the rise in temperature to 1.5 C, new goals from countries to reduce carbon emissions by 2030, and $100 billion to be given to poorer nations to fight climate change. 6. What is the Paris Agreement? The 2015 Paris Agreement was a landmark moment because it was there for the first time that almost all the world’s countries agreed to cut greenhouse gas emissions. It was agreed that efforts would be undertaken to limit global temperatures rise to 1.5 C and a promise to achieve net zero emissions between 2050 - 2100. Each country had to set their own emission-reduction targets and review it every five years. 7. Have countries acted on their pledges? There remains a substantial gap between what governments have promised to do, and the actions they have taken. The US, the world’s biggest polluter, has promised to cut emissions of GHG by 50 -52% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels. China and Saudi Arabia have set targets to be carbon-neutral by 2060, but experts say this is meaningless unless action is taken now. So far only Canada, Denmark, the EU, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, South Korea, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, and the UK have signed net-zero commitments into law. India, the world’s third biggest emitter of GHG after China, has declined from announcing a net zero target. In 2015, India committed to cutting the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33%-35% by 2030 from 2005 levels. Only 2 countries, Suriname and Bhutan, have already achieved net zero emissions. In all, over 120 countries have set some form of net-zero targets. 8. A brief segue: What is a net zero emissions target? Think of it as a scale. On one hand, we have greenhouse gases that are not good for the planet and we have natural process (trees) which can offset them. So there needs to be a balance between GHG emissions produced and GHG taken out of the atmosphere. ’Net zero emissions’ means not producing more greenhouse gases than the environment can offset. But once we stop emitting GHG from fossil fuels, we still need to deal with the emissions that we have already put in the atmosphere over the years. The world has decades of past harm to repair. 9. What is the solution? First, forget the existence of fossil fuels. The International Energy Agency says that there can be no new coal, oil or gas projects if the world wants to meet their net zero emission targets by 2050. Fossil fuels are the largest source of GHG emissions. Shifting to renewable energy is key. Solar, wind and renewable hydrogen do not emit GHG and it is clean, reliable and will become affordable with time. Read about what more you can personally do to combat climate change here. 10. Is it too late? It is still possible to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. But it will require rapid, far- reaching transformations across every sector- from power, architecture, transport and agriculture. A target is only as good as the policies undermining it. After decades of governments dragging their feet on tackling climate change, they have found themselves with a crisis that they cannot put off any longer. And with scientists waving red flags in our faces, it is time for governments to act.

Ahead of COP26, here are 10 questions to understand climate change

Nepal&nbsp;has been going through one of the worst&nbsp;climate&nbsp;catastrophes in recent years. From the massive glacier melt in Himalayas to landslide in the hills and vigorous flood in Terai, the results of climate change are felt in Nepal every day.

Leading a delegation, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has left for Glasgow to attend the COP26. Deuba will attend the official opening ceremony of the conference on November 1 and will then deliver Nepal’s national statement at the summit.

Speaking to WION’s Nepal correspondent Saloni Murarka, British Ambassador to Nepal, Nicola Pollitt, spoke on what to expect out of the COP26 climate conference and how Nepal can expect of the conference. The envoy also assured that UK will help Nepal mitigate climate crisis.

Here are a few excerpts.

WION: What can Nepal expect out of COP26?&nbsp;

Nepal is a very vulnerable country in terms of climate change. There are three areas where Nepal can hope to benefit from COP26.

First, global commitment to reduce carbon emissions. It is really important for country like Nepal, where the warming of global temperature is having such clear and devastating affect. So, having to come together and reduce the carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050 is really important.&nbsp;

Secondly, equally important for Nepal is the commitment and agreement on what we call adaptation— for example, which are the changes the communities need to make at the local level to help them adapt to&nbsp;some of the disasters and the changes they are seeing as result of&nbsp;climate&nbsp;change. And having developed countries to support and commit and funding the changes that are needed in the adaptation work.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-deuba-to-lead-a-delegation-to-cop26-in-november-415939">Nepal PM Deuba to lead a delegation to COP26 in November</a>

Third area is financing, where developed countries are committed to find $100 billion of climate financing annually. It’s really important that both the commitments are met. Also, countries like Nepal can access that finance and find ways the help and support they need.&nbsp;

WION: Nepal is one of the poorest countries and vulnerable to climate change. How do you think Nepal can strike a bargain with developed countries in COP26?&nbsp;

At COPs, countries negotiate as groups and Nepal is part of Least Developed Countries Group, which is led by Bhutan. So, they will be able to get together with other countries and support each other to&nbsp;make their voices heard. That is why we really pleased that Prime Minister Deuba is leading a delegation there.&nbsp;

WION: Countries like Russia and China have decided to miss the conference. They will be joining virtually, but their absence is significant given their contribution to global emissions. Do you think this sends any message to the world community of their engagement?&nbsp;

We obviously wanted to get as many leaders as possible together face-to-face, and it’s been a bit of a challenge during the COVID pandemic. But we are expecting 130 world leaders to be there and that in itself is really important to have those leaders in a room making these commitments. It really shows you the urgency to tackle climate change.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-queen-finds-world-leaders-irritating-because-they-only-talk-and-dont-act-420982">COP26: Queen finds world leaders 'irritating' because they only 'talk' and don't 'act'</a>

WION: How is UK helping&nbsp;Nepal&nbsp;in fighting climate&nbsp;change?&nbsp;

We have been working with the Nepal government on climate change and environment sustainability for many years. We have contributed £350 million over the last five years to climate change programs. The support will continue in climate change programs over the coming period, too. The UK has doubled its overall climate financing globally to £11.6 billion over five years as well. So, to help Nepal in accessing that money is another important role that we can play.

WION: Do you think this year’s COP26 will be the potential turning point in the global fight against climate change?&nbsp;

I think we have to be optimistic. This is such a serious issue. We have to be optimistic about COP26 and leaders there as to what they will commit to and how will they achieve it. It’s very important that we continue both the support and highlighting the importance of implementing all the commitments. Because, without real action and real policy change on the ground, it is not going to be enough. So, it will be our job that when leaders return, we try to ensure that we execute the commitments on the ground.&nbsp;

Nepal has been going through one of the worst climate catastrophes in recent years. From the massive glacier melt in Himalayas to landslide in the hills and vigorous flood in Terai, the results of climate change are felt in Nepal every day.

Nepal has been going through one of the worst climate catastrophes in recent years. From the massive glacier melt in Himalayas to landslide in the hills and vigorous flood in Terai, the results of climate change are felt in Nepal every day. Leading a delegation, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has left for Glasgow to attend the COP26. Deuba will attend the official opening ceremony of the conference on November 1 and will then deliver Nepal’s national statement at the summit. Speaking to WION’s Nepal correspondent Saloni Murarka, British Ambassador to Nepal, Nicola Pollitt, spoke on what to expect out of the COP26 climate conference and how Nepal can expect of the conference. The envoy also assured that UK will help Nepal mitigate climate crisis. Here are a few excerpts. WION: What can Nepal expect out of COP26? Nepal is a very vulnerable country in terms of climate change. There are three areas where Nepal can hope to benefit from COP26. First, global commitment to reduce carbon emissions. It is really important for country like Nepal, where the warming of global temperature is having such clear and devastating affect. So, having to come together and reduce the carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050 is really important. Secondly, equally important for Nepal is the commitment and agreement on what we call adaptation— for example, which are the changes the communities need to make at the local level to help them adapt to some of the disasters and the changes they are seeing as result of climate change. And having developed countries to support and commit and funding the changes that are needed in the adaptation work. Also read | Nepal PM Deuba to lead a delegation to COP26 in November Third area is financing, where developed countries are committed to find $100 billion of climate financing annually. It’s really important that both the commitments are met. Also, countries like Nepal can access that finance and find ways the help and support they need. WION: Nepal is one of the poorest countries and vulnerable to climate change. How do you think Nepal can strike a bargain with developed countries in COP26? At COPs, countries negotiate as groups and Nepal is part of Least Developed Countries Group, which is led by Bhutan. So, they will be able to get together with other countries and support each other to make their voices heard. That is why we really pleased that Prime Minister Deuba is leading a delegation there. WION: Countries like Russia and China have decided to miss the conference. They will be joining virtually, but their absence is significant given their contribution to global emissions. Do you think this sends any message to the world community of their engagement? We obviously wanted to get as many leaders as possible together face-to-face, and it’s been a bit of a challenge during the COVID pandemic. But we are expecting 130 world leaders to be there and that in itself is really important to have those leaders in a room making these commitments. It really shows you the urgency to tackle climate change. Also read | COP26: Queen finds world leaders 'irritating' because they only 'talk' and don't 'act' WION: How is UK helping Nepal in fighting climate change? We have been working with the Nepal government on climate change and environment sustainability for many years. We have contributed £350 million over the last five years to climate change programs. The support will continue in climate change programs over the coming period, too. The UK has doubled its overall climate financing globally to £11.6 billion over five years as well. So, to help Nepal in accessing that money is another important role that we can play. WION: Do you think this year’s COP26 will be the potential turning point in the global fight against climate change? I think we have to be optimistic. This is such a serious issue. We have to be optimistic about COP26 and leaders there as to what they will commit to and how will they achieve it. It’s very important that we continue both the support and highlighting the importance of implementing all the commitments. Because, without real action and real policy change on the ground, it is not going to be enough. So, it will be our job that when leaders return, we try to ensure that we execute the commitments on the ground.

Nepal vulnerable to climate change, UK will support through climate financing, says British envoy

Today, here we will decode some climate jargon, you musty have definitely heard of the Greenhouse effect but the big question is why are we talking about it now!

What is the Greenhouse effect?

A new study has revealed that forests in 10 World Heritage sites emitted more carbon than they absorbed.

The report released by UNESCO, World Resources Institute (WRI), and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has made some shocking revelation about greenhouse gas emissions.

The carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted by the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, diesel, gasoline or petrol, kerosene, and natural gas is the main "greenhouse gas" responsible for warming the Earth's atmosphere.

But there are others such as methane, which is produced by cows and waste dumps, that are much more potent than CO2 but much shorter-lived in the atmosphere.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/which-countries-and-blocs-are-major-players-at-the-glasgow-climate-summit-424619" hreflang="en">Which countries and blocs are major players at the Glasgow climate summit?</a>

Forests in the UNESCO World Heritage covers approximately 69 million hectares, that is, twice the size of Germany.

They play a crucial role in regulating the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Between 2001 and 2020, they absorbed almost 190 million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year. This is equivalent to half the UK's annual emissions from fossil fuels.

However, World Heritage sites lost 3.5 million hectares of forest over the past 20 years This area is larger than Belgium.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poor-nations-to-spend-five-times-as-much-on-debt-as-they-do-against-climate-change-report-424554" hreflang="en">Poor nations to spend five times as much on debt as they do against climate change: Report</a>

''We now have the most detailed picture to date of the vital role that [these] forests play in mitigating climate change,'' said co-author of the report Tales Carvalho Resende.

The two most widespread threats to UNESCO World Heritage forests are climate change with associated severe weather and land-use pressures associated with various human activities.

With just over one degree Celsius warming so far after 150 years of burning fossil fuels, the world is experiencing a rapid-fire onslaught of weather disasters supercharged by climate change. &nbsp;

A new study has revealed that forests in 10 World Heritage sites emitted more carbon than they absorbed. The report released by UNESCO, World Resources Institute (WRI), and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has made some shocking revelation about greenhouse gas emissions.

A new study has revealed that forests in 10 World Heritage sites emitted more carbon than they absorbed. The report released by UNESCO, World Resources Institute (WRI), and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has made some shocking revelation about greenhouse gas emissions. The carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted by the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, diesel, gasoline or petrol, kerosene, and natural gas is the main "greenhouse gas" responsible for warming the Earth's atmosphere. But there are others such as methane, which is produced by cows and waste dumps, that are much more potent than CO2 but much shorter-lived in the atmosphere. Also see | Which countries and blocs are major players at the Glasgow climate summit? Forests in the UNESCO World Heritage covers approximately 69 million hectares, that is, twice the size of Germany. They play a crucial role in regulating the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Between 2001 and 2020, they absorbed almost 190 million tonnes of carbon dioxide every year. This is equivalent to half the UK's annual emissions from fossil fuels. However, World Heritage sites lost 3.5 million hectares of forest over the past 20 years This area is larger than Belgium. Also read | Poor nations to spend five times as much on debt as they do against climate change: Report ''We now have the most detailed picture to date of the vital role that [these] forests play in mitigating climate change,'' said co-author of the report Tales Carvalho Resende. The two most widespread threats to UNESCO World Heritage forests are climate change with associated severe weather and land-use pressures associated with various human activities. With just over one degree Celsius warming so far after 150 years of burning fossil fuels, the world is experiencing a rapid-fire onslaught of weather disasters supercharged by climate change.

Some forests are now emitting more carbon dioxide than Oxygen. Here is why

Adverse impact of climate change on nature is well-known but often when things are expressed in monetary terms, the enormity of the problem at hand is fully realised.

The latest report from the United Nations has said that climate-related hazards have cost developing and developed Asian economies billions of dollars.

The report said that such hazards cost China USD 238 billion. China was followed by India which had to bear the cost of USD 87 billion. Japan and South Korea were next with climate-related costs of USD 83 billion and USD 24 billion respectively.

The figures have been mentioned in UN's annual 'State of the Climate in Asia' report. The report also said that 2020 was the hottest year on record for Asia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-2020-asia-suffered-hottest-year-on-record-un-424202">In 2020, Asia suffered hottest year on record: UN</a>

Climate change does not just mean increase in global temperature. It also has effects on other natural phenomena like cyclones. Scientists say that climate change results in formation of higher intensity cyclones which in turn cause greater devastation.

Many weather and climate-related displacements in Asia are prolonged, with people unable to return home or integrate locally, the report said.

In 2020 floods and storms affected approximately 50 million people in Asia, resulting in more than 5,000 fatalities.

Asia's warmest year on record saw the mean temperature 1.39 degrees Celsius above the 1981–2010 average. 
The 38.0 C registered at Verkhoyansk in Russia is provisionally the highest known temperature anywhere north of the Arctic Circle.

Shrinking glaciers

There are approximately 100,000 square kilometres of glaciers on the Tibetan Plateau and in the Himalayas -- the largest volumes of ice outside the polar regions and the source of 10 major Asian rivers.

"Glacier retreat is accelerating and it is projected that glacier mass will decrease by 20 percent to 40 percent by 2050, affecting the lives and livelihoods of about 750 million people in the region," the report said.

"This has major ramifications for global sea level, regional water cycles and local hazards such as landslides and avalanches."

A quarter of Asia's mangroves are in Bangladesh. However, the tropical storm-exposed country's mangroves decreased by 19 percent from 1992 to 2019, the report said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Adverse impact of climate change on nature is well-known but often when things are expressed in monetary terms, the enormity of the problem at hand is fully realised.

Adverse impact of climate change on nature is well-known but often when things are expressed in monetary terms, the enormity of the problem at hand is fully realised. The latest report from the United Nations has said that climate-related hazards have cost developing and developed Asian economies billions of dollars. The report said that such hazards cost China USD 238 billion. China was followed by India which had to bear the cost of USD 87 billion. Japan and South Korea were next with climate-related costs of USD 83 billion and USD 24 billion respectively. The figures have been mentioned in UN's annual 'State of the Climate in Asia' report. The report also said that 2020 was the hottest year on record for Asia. Also Read | In 2020, Asia suffered hottest year on record: UN Climate change does not just mean increase in global temperature. It also has effects on other natural phenomena like cyclones. Scientists say that climate change results in formation of higher intensity cyclones which in turn cause greater devastation. Many weather and climate-related displacements in Asia are prolonged, with people unable to return home or integrate locally, the report said. In 2020 floods and storms affected approximately 50 million people in Asia, resulting in more than 5,000 fatalities. Asia's warmest year on record saw the mean temperature 1.39 degrees Celsius above the 1981–2010 average. The 38.0 C registered at Verkhoyansk in Russia is provisionally the highest known temperature anywhere north of the Arctic Circle. Shrinking glaciers There are approximately 100,000 square kilometres of glaciers on the Tibetan Plateau and in the Himalayas -- the largest volumes of ice outside the polar regions and the source of 10 major Asian rivers. "Glacier retreat is accelerating and it is projected that glacier mass will decrease by 20 percent to 40 percent by 2050, affecting the lives and livelihoods of about 750 million people in the region," the report said. "This has major ramifications for global sea level, regional water cycles and local hazards such as landslides and avalanches." A quarter of Asia's mangroves are in Bangladesh. However, the tropical storm-exposed country's mangroves decreased by 19 percent from 1992 to 2019, the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

Climate change-related hazards have cost India and China billions, says UN

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