Mott MacDonald sets out timeline to achieve historic Paris Agreement

Mott MacDonald has published a new report, entitled Under 2°C: mission possible, which details the range of steps needed to achieve a sub-2°C future by 2050. The consultancy has set out a timeline which identifies the likely major milestones along the route to achieving the historic Paris Agreement, the goal of which is to slow and ultimately halt progressive climate change.

Without immediate meaningful and sustained action, the planet faces the strong possibility of dangerous climate change. Global average temperatures are already 1°C above pre-industrial levels, while climate-related weather events are the leading cause of financial loss and viewed by the World Economic Forum as the biggest threat to the global economy.

Under 2°C: mission possible is a story based on real life progress to-date, commitments already made and technology improvements in the pipeline. The report is underpinned by new thinking from the financial industry and civil society that is giving the climate agenda new drive and urgency. The report focuses on 2050 because the 2°C pathway requires a net zero emissions economy and meaningful progress will need to be made by the mid-century if this is to be achieved. This is being increasingly recognised by banks, investors and insurers, while it is starting to impact infrastructure owners as well. 

Keith Howells, Mott MacDonald's group chairman, said: “So far, 90% of the 195 signatories to the 2015 Paris Agreement have passed approximately 1500 pieces of national policy and legislation to achieve their 2°C commitments. Now it's all about implementation.

“Realising the Paris Agreement’s aim of keeping global temperature rise below 2°C is completely achievable. Our Under 2°C: mission possible report illustrates exactly how this can be done by providing a recourse of positive technological, economic and social changes that occur along the way. 

“We anticipate unprecedented innovation, research and development to take place during between now and 2050, which is great news for future generations. It proves that humankind can not only respond to massive challenges but actually overcome them and continue to thrive,” Howells added.

Click here to download the Under 2°C: mission possible report.