Carbon Debt: Nations Face New Climate Accountability

As global temperatures approach the critical 1.5°C threshold, scientists are advocating for a new accountability framework based on a 'carbon debt' system. This approach evaluates each country's consumption of its fair share of the global carbon budget, established to remain below this limit.

Nations that have emitted more than their allocated budget will be classified as carbon debtors. Subsequent emissions will accrue further debt, with future projections identifying potential future debt accumulation. This system aims to quantify responsibility for exceeding the 1.5°C limit before it is irrevocably breached.

This mechanism aligns with calls for developed nations to reduce emissions faster and invest in negative emission technologies. Remedial measures proposed include deploying CO2 removal technologies and providing support for adaptation needs and loss and damage to vulnerable communities.

The International Court of Justice's recent advisory opinion reinforced 1.5°C as the primary Paris Agreement target, stressing that obligations remain to reverse any temporary overshoot. Countries must strive for net-negative emissions and address the consequences of exceeding the warming limit.