Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: How Did We Get Here?
The Beginning of Greenhouse Gas Reduction Efforts
The earnest effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions began when humanity realized that these gases cause global warming, which in turn makes life on Earth difficult. Since the first scientific analysis and evidence presented in the 1990 IPCC report, the need for greenhouse gas reduction has become clear. Despite not achieving the expected reductions and climate stabilization, most people now accept that reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat global warming is crucial.
The Pre-2015 Era: Awareness without Action
Before 2015, although most people recognized climate change as a significant issue, it was often seen as a distant problem. This perception led to lukewarm actions at both international and national levels. Agreements and laws regarding greenhouse gas reductions were not stringent and often optional, with no substantial enforcement mechanisms. Many saw greenhouse gas reduction as an additional cost with no immediate benefits, rather than as an investment in our current and future well-being.
The Post-2015 Shift: Hope for Climate Action
The Paris Agreement, established under the UNFCCC framework, marked a significant change. Effective from 2020 to 2030, the Paris Agreement differs from previous agreements by allowing countries to set their own greenhouse gas reduction targets based on their capabilities. The UNFCCC monitors and supports these efforts, providing assistance where needed. This approach has led to more robust participation from developing countries in emissions reporting and reduction.
Thailand, for example, initially set a target to reduce emissions by 20-25% compared to business as usual, later increasing this to 30-40% by 2030. This shift reflects the growing involvement of the private sector and industries in reducing emissions and leveraging carbon markets.
Integration of Climate Goals with Sustainable Development
The global push for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has further integrated climate action with business and marketing strategies. Climate change mitigation has become a key business goal, transforming climate challenges into opportunities for profit and innovation. This shift has accelerated the growth of low-carbon businesses, carbon footprint certification, and carbon credit trading, highlighting the economic potential of climate action.
Developments in Thailand
Thailand has made significant strides in addressing climate change. The country has set ambitious targets for carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions. In 2023, the establishment of the Department of Climate Change and Environment marked a major step in policy development and climate action. Additionally, the drafting of Thailand’s first climate change law, expected to be enacted within a year, signifies a firm commitment to tackling climate issues.
The Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO) has expanded its activities, setting carbon footprint standards and collaborating with the Stock Exchange of Thailand to require listed companies to report their emissions. These efforts have energized the national climate action landscape, making climate change and greenhouse gas reduction integral to all business sectors.
