BRICS Unite: Bold Steps Towards a Sustainable Climate Future

In the past two weeks, two significant climate meetings took place in different parts of the world. While both events featured some of the same participants, their outcomes were worlds apart.

The first meeting in Bonn, Germany, was part of the UN’s climate talks, known as SB 62. It ended up being a showcase of vague promises rather than tangible action. In contrast, the gathering in Belem, Brazil, demonstrated a clear commitment to tackle climate change directly. Unfortunately, the Bonn event was filled with complex jargon and little progress, while Brazil’s conference aimed to unite countries for effective action.

Historically, climate talks have often been marked by delays and inaction. A former UN expert, who had a key role in the successful Montreal Protocol, noted that our current climate negotiations seem to be veering toward stagnation, just as they did three decades ago.

During the Bonn meeting, discussions focused heavily on climate finance, the vital lifeline for climate initiatives. A major topic was the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), a plan meant to replace the unmet promise of $100 billion annually from developed to developing nations. Yet, the gap has widened, with required support growing over $1 trillion, highlighting ongoing struggles. Instead of grants, developed countries often suggest loans, further complicating efforts to close this gap as climate crises intensify.

As global temperatures reach alarming levels, the Bonn meetings failed to address the urgent need for improved Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Current commitments could push global warming by as much as 3.5°C, far above the 1.5°C limit set in the Paris Agreement. A large majority of countries hadn’t submitted revised NDCs by July, and now the deadline has shifted to September 2025, adding to the anxiety of those facing immediate climate impacts.

Amid these challenges, there is a sliver of hope. The rules for global carbon markets are being formed more quickly now. However, many environmental experts caution that these markets could become loopholes if not properly regulated. There’s a considerable risk that without stringent rules, these systems may worsen existing problems instead of alleviating them.

While Bonn’s gathering painted a bleak picture, the G7 Summit occurring simultaneously in Canada showcased a different kind of hypocrisy. While the G7 discussed climate urgency, they prioritized military spending over climate action. Their escalating defense budget could reach over $1 trillion, underlining an alarming trend: wealthy nations seem more inclined to invest in warfare than in saving the planet.

On a hopeful note, the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are stepping into this climate dialogue. Their recent discussions emphasize climate justice and accessible financing for developing nations. As COP30 will unfold in the heart of the Amazon, Brazil’s leadership under President Lula da Silva signals a commitment to reducing deforestation and emissions, setting high expectations for the upcoming summit.

Countries like India and China are also taking bold steps toward their commitments. Prime Minister Modi is pushing for significant cuts in fossil fuel usage, while President Xi is leading aggressive investments in renewable energy. There’s a growing sentiment that BRICS could lead a shift towards climate commitment, countering the stalled progress seen in places like Bonn.

As we approach COP30 in Brazil, it’s crucial that BRICS nations mobilize their efforts to establish impactful climate finance mechanisms, addressing the gaps left by developed nations. The call for accountability is more urgent than ever, and without it, the cycle of inaction continues.

Time is running out. The global climate crisis is intensifying, and rich nations must stop ignoring the impending catastrophe. BRICS has the potential to transform Bonn’s stalling into Belem’s progress, pushing for binding agreements and collective accountability in the fight against climate change.

In summary, while the road has been filled with challenges, it’s essential for international players to find common ground and commit to genuine climate action. The clock is ticking, and the world is watching.

(Rajendra Shende is a former Director at UNEP and founder of the Green TERRE Foundation.)

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