Arguably the single most important objective for COP26 was to secure additional commitments consistent with a credible trajectory towards Net Zero global emissions by 2050.

The Conference had several other overarching objectives, including:

- ensuring that the accounting rules for international cooperation on climate mitigation avoid double-counting of greenhouse reductions;
- ensuring that NDCs are regularly updated, particularly if greater ambition is deemed necessary;

- improving the verification of annual emissions reductions reported by each Party; and

- encouraging developed countries abide by their previous promises to provide circa $100 billion per annum for climate action in developing countries over the coming decade.

Ibec, as Ireland’s leading business representative organisation, considers climate change to be the greatest threat facing this generation of mankind. We continue to work with our members, across all sectors of the economy, to promote more sustainable means of production, consumption, land use and transport, consistent with the Irish Government’s ambition for Net Zero. Climate action is a key element not only of our policy work, but also of our ongoing campaign for improved quality of life for people who live and work in Ireland.

www.ibec.ie/influencing-for-business/ibec-campaigns/better-lives-better-business

Our members, many of whom also belong to European umbrella trade associations, have long recognised the benefit of cooperating on climate action with like-minded business federations across the EU and beyond. This is why Ibec’s Head of Infrastructure, Energy and Environment, Dr Neil Walker, has attended previous UN conferences as part of a European business observer delegation. www.businesseurope.eu/policies/energy-and-environment/climate-change

To find out more, download our Infrastructure Team Brochure HERE