Mitigating emissions and removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere have long been the focus of climate action efforts; however, little attention has been paid to another greenhouse gas with an immediate and potent impact on climate change: methane (CH4). Discussion around the climate change contribution of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) such as methane, and the importance of prioritizing SLCPs in decarbonization efforts has become an increasing topic of discussion among climate scientists and companies alike.

As outlined in the latest IPCC synthesis report, decarbonization is more than just a critical priority in 2023—it’s key to securing a sustainable future, and our actions in the next few years to mitigate and draw down emissions will be pivotal. Thankfully, climate action on the policy and business agenda continues to gain momentum, with several key areas of focus on the immediate horizon. 

Some exciting news coming out of California means big things for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the building sector. With 25% of the state’s emissions resulting from buildings, the passage of AB 2446 into law, which targets embodied carbon reduction of building materials, is a significant step towards addressing climate change.

With COP27 wrapped, here are key announcements and agreements from the conference.