Nations grapple with loss of 1.5°C target at UN climate summit

At COP31 in Türkiye, countries are divided over whether to keep the Paris accord’s 1.5°C warming limit as a central benchmark, after the UN warned that crossing it is imminent and unavoidable. Island nations and other countries on the frontlines say the goal remains essential, while observers warn that efforts to weaken its place in the final deal could reduce pressure for rapid emissions cuts.

The world has warmed about 1.4°C above pre-industrial levels, and nearly 200 countries agreed under the Paris accord to keep warming well below 2°C while pursuing the 1.5°C limit. Some negotiators want COP31 to reaffirm that 1.5°C is the “right goal” and say temperatures could still be lowered after an overshoot; others are sceptical or concerned that stronger wording could bring pressure to cut emissions without more financial support. Scientists say returning to 1.5°C would require rapid emissions reductions and removing carbon from the atmosphere, though the prospects are uncertain.