Nations contributing the most to greenhouse gas emissions should bear the greatest responsibility in the event of exceeding the critical 1.5°C warming threshold, according to a new proposal from a group of climate scientists. They advocate for assigning a “net-zero carbon debt” to countries that have emitted more than their fair share of greenhouse gases.
This initiative aims to motivate high-emission nations to take corrective actions, such as implementing carbon dioxide removal strategies or assisting other countries in achieving net-zero emissions more rapidly. The proposed framework highlights the urgent need for accountability in addressing global climate change and encourages proactive measures from those with the highest emissions.
