The UN 2020 Fossil Fuel Production Gap Report

The world is ‘doubling down’ on fossil fuels despite the climate crisis.

“Between 2020 and 2030, global coal, oil, and gas production would have to decline annually by 11%, 4%, and 3%, respectively, to be consistent with a 1.5°C pathway. But governments’ plans and projections indicate an average 2% annual increase for each fuel.

“Continued production of fossil fuels at current levels, let alone the increases envisioned by governments, is at odds with a climate-safe future. Coal, oil, and gas account for over three-fourths of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including 90% of carbon dioxide emissions and roughly a third of methane emissions.

“Fossil fuel interests — which represent a large and concentrated political and economic force — often actively counter or resist bold climate action. When governments are dependent on fossil fuels, this “carbon entanglement” can stand in the way of climate policy progress.

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