2023’s Top Environmental Challenges: In-Depth Academic Reviews and Insights

Environmental negotiations in 2024 are grappling with significant challenges, according to a new report. Rapid climate change, ongoing conflicts, and political upheaval in many democratic nations have made progress difficult.

Dr. Jennifer Allan from Cardiff University edited the report, titled State of Global Environmental Governance 2024, released by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). The report expresses growing frustration over the sluggish pace of climate negotiations and multilateral environmental efforts.

Dr. Allan noted a troubling shift in the political landscape: “Many countries are leaning right, with leaders who have populist agendas. This trend raises concerns about possible rollbacks in environmental policies. Often, the environment gets sidelined by other issues.”

“Geopolitical tensions are undermining environmental cooperation. Trust among nations is low, which hampers collaborative efforts to save the planet. Additionally, warfare puts new pressure on ecosystems critical for livelihoods.” — Dr. Jennifer Allan

This year marks the fifth time Dr. Allan has co-authored and edited this report. She observed a stark impact from geopolitical issues on global environmental talks, saying, “It’s a grim routine compared to the urgent need for action, especially visible from space.”

The IISD’s Earth Negotiations Bulletin, a valuable resource detailing global environmental negotiations, informs the report. It highlights the serious decline in wildlife populations, with a staggering 73% drop since 1970. Additionally, 20% of migratory species are now at risk of extinction, and air pollution remains a critical health threat in South Asia. A global study showed that our drinking water often exceeds safety limits for harmful “forever chemicals.”

Dr. Allan pointed out worrying trends: “We’re experiencing an ‘aridity crisis’—our blue planet is turning brown. Climate change is leading to permanent aridity that costs $307 billion each year. Last year was the hottest on record, surpassing the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement, leaving many climate scientists feeling desperate.”

However, the report isn’t void of hope. It highlights positive developments, such as decreasing emissions in advanced economies, particularly the EU, illustrating that thriving economies can also be environmentally friendly. The recovery of the ozone layer shows the Earth’s resilience. Projects like the Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s “coral IVF” initiative and the recovery of the Iberian Lynx from near extinction offer glimmers of hope.

Overall, while the challenges are daunting, the path to restoration remains open. Let’s be hopeful that in 2025, innovation and curiosity can guide us through these complex issues.

For more insights, read the full report here.

Check out this related article: Experts Warn: UK Unprepared for Impending Climate Crisis – What You Need to Know