In a critical year for climate change and environmental diplomacy, 2021 presents a real opportunity to kick-start a green recovery. The numerous international summits, conferences and meetings set to take place this year offer a chance to ramp up global climate action. To mitigate the worst impacts of the climate crisis, multilateral organizations and governments must exercise greater leadership and pursue a shared vision for global coordination.
In recent years, international climate cooperation has plateaued. While the US has rejoined the Paris Agreement, the outlook for international cooperation towards sustainability is still uncertain, particularly relating to the continuing impact of COVID-19.
This briefing paper presents a timeline that will help policymakers, campaigners, planners and diplomats to understand the complexities at play in environmental policy, in order to maximize the ‘super year’ potential of 2021.
