Global carbon countdown: Is the world doomed? Shocking revelations from climate talk

At the Thai-German conference Climate Talk in Bangkok, Germany’s Ambassador to Thailand, Dr Ernst Reichel, warns that the world is perilously behind in achieving net-zero carbon emissions.

As countries grapple with the devastating consequences of climate change, a fossil fuel ban emerges as a contentious issue during Climate Talk, creating challenges for the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates. This urgent call to action unveils the alarming reality of a planet on the brink.

Dr Reichel emphasises the critical shortfall in the global pursuit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sounding an alarm that transcends the economic impact. The consequences of climate change, from heatwaves to flooding, droughts, and erratic climate patterns, are already wreaking havoc on daily life worldwide.

Highlighting the disproportionate impact on women at the Climate Talk, Dr Reichel points to the agricultural sector as the hardest hit. Farmers face a triple threat of water scarcity, food security challenges, and soaring prices. The ambassador underscores the urgent need for collective action, with individuals, governments, and the private sector playing pivotal roles in mitigating the crisis.

Kannika Thampanishvong, from the Puey Ungphakorn Institute for Economic Research, echoes Dr Reichel’s concerns, spotlighting the severe repercussions in the Thai agriculture sector. Floods, storms, saltwater intrusion, and farming difficulties pose a financial threat of up to 2.850 trillion baht between 2011 and 2045.

Tourism and industry also grapple with disruptions, affecting travel decisions, tourist attractions, water sanitation, and utilities, reported The Nation.

Barriers to change

While Thailand is making strides towards a low-carbon transition, several barriers impede progress. From fossil fuel infrastructure lock-ins to regulatory risks, insufficient infrastructure, and lack of access to finance, the challenges are multifaceted. Kannika identifies technology costs and the need for a supportive regulatory structure for clean energy trading as critical roadblocks.

Despite the challenges, there is optimism that Thailand can achieve its net-zero goal by 2065. Kannika urges an open-minded approach, advocating for government intervention to bridge infrastructure gaps and improve carbon credit accreditation to international standards. She underscores the pivotal role of carbon pricing, carbon tax, carbon trade, and green electricity in navigating the path towards a sustainable and resilient future.