Global to Local
The 2015 Paris Agreement was a landmark moment for action on climate change, with 196 countries agreeing to limit global warming to below 2°C, and preferably within 1.5°C. To reach this 1.5°C target, the IPCC state that global CO2 emissions must fall 45% by 2030, and reach net zero by 2050.
However, it is increasingly recognised that the key to reaching net zero lies at the local level, with collaboration between local government, businesses and citizens crucial for translating climate policy into real, tangible outcomes that make our cities greener, healthier, and more prosperous.
Norwich’s Emissions
Norwich’s emissions are below the national average, but to keep us within 1.5°C of warming there is still plenty of progress left to make. The graph below from carbon.place shows this challenge in full: the bar on the right shows the average Norwich resident’s current emissions, and the black line is where we need to get to.
The Tyndall Centre in Manchester has also prepared a report on how Norwich can stay within its carbon budget, with the graph below showing the significant fall in emissions required over the next two decades. However, this can only be achieved if central government policy provides the necessary resources and incentives for all all sectors of the economy. You can read the full report here.
Norwich Climate Commission 