Climate Conference in Baku 2024: A Paradigm Shift

The climate conference in Baku, 2024, signified a major transformation by challenging the traditional dichotomy of 'donors' and 'recipients' and advocating for a new global sustainability forum.

Historical Context and Global Dynamics

• The original climate treaty of 1992 aimed for collective action to address climate concerns.
• The G7 focused on reducing future carbon emissions, although cumulative emissions were acknowledged as critical.
• Developing nations accepted obligations they did not originate, expecting technology transfer and funds.
• The G7's strategy has led to their continued advantage by focusing on symptoms rather than root causes.

Current Issues and Global Inequities

• The G7 has largely detached from climate responsibilities, creating an "optical illusion" of financial support by 2035.
• The Global South, representing a significant population and GDP share, is increasingly questioning G7-led climate policies.
• Nationally Determined Contributions from 72 countries now include the concept of a "just transition".
• Climate justice questions inequalities in emission levels and solutions like carbon pricing.

Urbanization and Resource Use

• Urbanization accounts for significant global emissions and resource use.
• The G7, with a small population share, historically consumed a large proportion of global resources.
• By 2050, Asia is expected to match its population share with emissions, contrasting with the G7's continued high emissions per capita.

Proposed Initiatives for Global Sustainability

• BRICS and partners should form an alternative sustainability forum focusing on urban energy transitions.
• UN Climate negotiations should center on G7 emissions and grants to vulnerable countries.
• Redefine international fora as platforms for assessing global positions and planning necessary adjustments.