
New Collective Quantified Goals (NCQGs)
The New Collective Quantified Goals (NCQGs) refer to the updated financial targets established under the Paris Agreement to replace the earlier commitment of mobilizing $100 billion annually by developed countries for climate finance.
Background
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Purpose:
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To provide financial support to developing countries to address climate change, including mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage, and capacity building.
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Reflects the needs and priorities of developing countries, as outlined in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
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Origin:
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Agreed upon at COP21 (2015) under the Paris Agreement.
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The $100 billion goal, set in 2009, was deemed insufficient to meet the escalating costs of climate action.
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Scope:
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The NCQGs aim to account for the diverse needs of developing countries, including Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
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Encompasses public and private finance, grants, and concessional resources.
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Key Features of NCQG as Adopted at COP29 (2024)
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Financial Commitment:
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Target: $300 billion annually by 2035.
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Replaces the previous $100 billion floor.
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Challenges:
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Falls short of the $1.3 trillion annual demand by developing countries by 2030.
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Does not meet the financial needs estimated by the UNFCCC’s Standing Committee on Finance ($455-$584 billion annually).
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No Minimum Allocations:
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Lacks specific allocation floors for vulnerable groups like LDCs and SIDS.
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Criticism:
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Developing countries, including India, have rejected the NCQG in its current form, citing inadequate commitments and a lack of equity.
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Importance of NCQGs
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Ensures that developing countries receive adequate resources to meet their climate goals.
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Provides a framework for predictable and equitable financial support.
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Aligns with the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC) under the UNFCCC.
Way Forward
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Increase Financial Ambition:
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Commit to higher targets reflecting the actual needs of developing countries.
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Ensure Accessibility and Equity:
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Set minimum allocation floors for vulnerable groups like LDCs and SIDS.
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Strengthen Accountability:
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Establish clear mechanisms to monitor and ensure timely disbursement of funds.
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The NCQGs aim to redefine the global climate finance architecture but require significant enhancements to meet the demands of the developing world effectively.