According to the UN, we could save millions of lives and gain trillions of dollars each year by taking better care of our planet. Inger Andersen, the executive director of the UN Environment Program (UNEP), emphasizes the urgency of acting now. She worries that complacency could put the most vulnerable at risk.
A recent UNEP report reveals the staggering costs of inaction on climate change, escalating to trillions annually. The report predicts that failing to address climate issues could slice 4% off global GDP by 2050, climbing to 20% by the century’s end. This situation is not just a distant threat; it’s happening now. For example, extreme weather events over the last 20 years have caused around $143 billion in damages.
Andersen sees this point in time as a crossroads. We can continue down a path leading to a damaged world or take steps to secure a healthy future for both people and economies. The benefits of transitioning to sustainable practices are huge—trillions in GDP, improved health outcomes, and lifting millions out of poverty.
The UNEP report, created by 287 scientists across 82 countries, outlines a “roadmap” for global action. It calls for coordinated efforts to transform agriculture, restore ecosystems, and switch to clean energy. The goal is to create products that last, reducing waste, and ensuring that we use our resources wisely for future generations.
Shifting our thinking is essential. Instead of only focusing on GDP, we should consider metrics that reflect human and environmental well-being. Moreover, phasing out harmful subsidies, especially those supporting fossil fuels, can pave the way for a healthier planet. The report estimates that these changes could yield $20 trillion in annual global economic benefits by 2070, eventually rising to $100 trillion.
To reach a net-zero state by 2050, we would need an annual investment of around $8 trillion. While this might sound daunting, the costs of inaction will only continue to rise. As noted, health impacts from air pollution could cost up to $25 trillion by 2060.
Looking at 2025, the situation is mixed. Andersen acknowledges that while countries aren’t moving fast enough to curb emissions, some progress has been made since the Paris Agreement in 2015. Yet, the recent UN climate conference in Brazil did not deliver a unified approach to wean off fossil fuels.
Despite these challenges, there are reasons to be optimistic. Renewable energy is rapidly becoming cheaper and more accessible. For instance, Texas now gets almost 40% of its electricity from renewables, a shift that showcases how markets can help address the climate crisis.
Andersen finds hope in the diverse groups advocating for climate action—from businesses to youth activists. She believes these voices, united in purpose, can lead to meaningful changes. Her message is clear: when making choices, think of future generations. Vote for those who will inherit the Earth next, as our decisions today shape their world.
For more insights on climate actions, refer to UNEP’s thorough reports here.
