Just ahead of the five-year anniversary of the Paris Climate Agreement’s adoption, national climate commitments are being put forward by several Heads of State and governments around the world, including Brazil, which just announced its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC)

Brazil’s updated NDC includes a target to reduce emissions 43% by 2030 from 2005 levels, which is the same that was submitted in 2015 as an indicative target. The national climate commitment also announces an indicative objective of reaching climate neutrality by 2060.

Following is a statement from Carolina Genin, Climate Director at WRI Brasil:

“With the climate crisis accelerating, it is very concerning that the 2030 emission reduction target announced by the Brazilian government is no stronger than what it submitted five years ago. As the sixth largest global GHG emitter, Brazil must take bolder action alongside other nations to address this global challenge. To achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement, all countries need to significantly strengthen their 2030 targets – including Brazil.

“Brazil’s new climate plan also includes an indicative objective to reach climate neutrality by 2060, but suggested that enhancing these long-term efforts would depend on financial transfers from developed countries and that the country requires US $10 billion a year towards Brazil’s decarbonization efforts starting in 2021. As a developing country, climate financing will certainly be needed to scale climate action in Brazil, but first we need a robust plan on how we are going to invest such funding and hold ourselves accountable for measurable results. A weak climate target is exactly the opposite of what was needed.  

“Over the next decade, Brazil can grow its economy faster by pursuing a green recovery rather than sticking to its current development path. Research published by WRI Brasil and the New Climate Economy shows that by pursuing a more sustainable economic growth model the country can generate BRL 2.8 trillion (US$ 535 billion) by 2030 and 2 million extra jobs compared to business as usual. Therefore, Brazil’s key economic sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure and industry can be more productive and better compete globally if the country transitions to a more efficient, resilient, fair and sustainable economy. 

“Brazil has a historic opportunity to increase the country’s capacity to generate jobs, boost productivity and improve public health by investing in a low-carbon economy. By not raising the bar of its emission reduction target, the government is stepping away from a great chance for Brazil to start rebuilding from the Covid-19 economic collapse.”