Energy and Climate Change Measures
SDG 13 , "Climate Action ," aims to take urgent measures to combat global climate change and its impacts. The background to the goal's establishment is the worsening issue of climate change.
Climate change is affecting every region of the world, both developed and developing countries. Greenhouse gas emissions have increased by more than 50% since 1990 and continue to increase. As global warming progresses, various problems have become apparent, including rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and the destruction of ecosystems. These impacts extend to many areas that support our lives, including agricultural production, securing drinking water, energy supplies, and infrastructure.
The importance of climate change measures is clearly stated in the Paris Agreement. The agreement sets out the long-term goal of "limiting the increase in global average temperature to well below 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels." To achieve this goal, greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced to zero or negative by 2100. A mid-term goal has also been set of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050 .
Countermeasures against climate change require both mitigation and adaptation measures. Mitigation measures include reducing greenhouse gas emissions and introducing renewable energy , while adaptation measures include providing support to regions and communities vulnerable to the effects of climate change and strengthening disaster prevention measures against natural disasters .
Solving the issue of climate change requires an international community-wide effort. It is necessary for not only governments, but also companies, research institutions, civil society groups, and each and every one of us to work together and take action. It is important to start by doing what we can in our own individual positions, such as curbing mass consumption at the individual level and reducing the environmental impact of our production activities at the corporate level.
Addressing climate change is an urgent issue that must be addressed now in order to protect our future and the sustainability of the planet .
