The evolution of global climate action from its early days to today marks a profound journey of awareness, advocacy, and collective effort towards addressing one of humanity’s greatest challenges: climate change. Beginning in the early 20th century, when scientific understanding of greenhouse gases emerged, to the present day, where international agreements and grassroots movements shape policy and behaviour, this timeline reflects humanity’s response to a changing climate.
At the dawn of the 20th century, awareness of climate change began to grow as scientists identified the role of greenhouse gases in trapping heat in the Earth’s atmosphere. This period laid the foundation for understanding how human activities, particularly industrialization and deforestation, contribute to rising global temperatures. Throughout the mid-20th century, scientific research and public discourse intensified, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated global action to mitigate climate impacts and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
The latter half of the 20th century witnessed significant milestones in global climate governance. The establishment of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1992 marked a pivotal moment, setting the stage for international cooperation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and stabilize the climate system. Subsequent landmark agreements, such as the Kyoto Protocol in 1997 and the Paris Agreement in 2015, underscored the global commitment to limiting global warming and transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
Svante Arrhenius proposes that fossil fuel combustion could lead to global warming.
Guy Stewart Callendar links rising carbon dioxide levels to global temperature increases.
Charles David Keeling begins recording atmospheric carbon dioxide at Mauna Loa, Hawaii, creating the Keeling Curve.
U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Science Advisory Committee warns about climate change.
United Nations Conference on the Human Environment (Stockholm Conference) raises environmental issues globally.
First World Climate Conference recognizes the potential for human activities to affect climate.
Montreal Protocol signed to phase out substances depleting the ozone layer.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) established to assess climate change science.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) adopted at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
Kyoto Protocol established, setting legally binding emission reduction targets for developed countries.
Kyoto Protocol enters into force.
IPCC releases Fourth Assessment Report, highlighting the urgency of addressing climate change.
Copenhagen Accord recognizes the need to limit global temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius.
Paris Agreement adopted, aiming to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, with efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees.
IPCC Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C emphasizes the need for rapid, far-reaching changes to limit warming.
Global climate strikes led by youth activists highlight public demand for action.
European Union adopts European Green Deal, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050.
COP26 held in Glasgow, with countries committing to enhanced climate action and net-zero targets.
UNFCCC COP27 focuses on implementation of climate action and finance for adaptation.
The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, including major climate and clean energy investments, is enacted.
Continued global efforts and new pledges at COP29 to further increase ambition and action on climate change.
As we reflect on the timeline of global climate action, it becomes evident that while progress has been made, challenges remain daunting. The urgency of addressing climate change has never been clearer, with increasing evidence of its impacts on ecosystems, communities, and economies worldwide. Moving forward, continued innovation, collaboration across sectors, and robust policy frameworks will be essential to achieving a sustainable future for all.
Looking ahead, the evolution of global climate action must continue to prioritize ambitious targets, equitable solutions, and resilience-building efforts. Empowering communities, leveraging technological advancements, and fostering international solidarity will be critical in accelerating the transition towards a carbon-neutral and climate-resilient world. Each day presents an opportunity to strengthen our commitment, advance our understanding, and forge a path towards a more sustainable tomorrow for generations to come.
Today’s actions, tomorrow’s world. Everyday’s a Carbon Zero Day!