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Editorial Rating

9

Qualities

  • Analytical
  • Eye Opening
  • Overview

Recommendation

In the 2016 Paris Agreement, nations around the world committed to capping the increase in the average global temperature to 2ºC [3.6ºF] by 2050. Experts debate whether countries, individually or cooperatively, can meet this aggressive target. In this incisive overview for policy makers and business leaders, Boston Consulting Group professionals report on their examination of carbon reduction strategies for the seven heaviest-polluting countries. They find that nations acting alone can achieve substantial progress on environmental goals, with significant economic rewards in tow, and the sooner they take action, the greater their gains.

Summary

The global leaders who forged the 2016 Paris Agreement on climate change set ambitious targets for 2050. Each country committed to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by a specific percentage of its 1990s releases. The greatest burdens fall on the seven countries that, in combination, produce more than 60% of all carbon emissions. Based on current courses of action, forecasters project increases in emission levels by 2050 of 3% in Russia, 6% in China, 12% in Brazil and more than 100% in India. Levels for Germany, the United States and South Africa should decline by 45%, 11% and 10%, respectively...

About the Authors

Jens Burchardt et al. are professionals at the Boston Consulting Group.