Bridging the Emissions Gap

The analyses in Chapters 2 and 3 of this report concluded that the emissions gap in 2020 will likely be between 8 and 13 GtCO2e. The chapters also estimated the difference between BaU emissions in 2020 and the emissions level consistent with a “likely” chance of staying within the 2°C target to be 14 GtCO2e. This chapter explores the potential for bridging this gap using a sector policy approach. Firstly, the chapter provides a summary and update of the estimated emission reduction potential by sector from the Bridging the Emissions Gap Report (UNEP, 2011). Secondly, it examines a number of sector-specific policies that have already been adopted by national or local governments in several countries and regions around the world, and that have been successful in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Without pretence of being comprehensive in either the choice of sectors or policy instruments, the focus of the second part of the chapter is on best practices in three sectors: buildings, transport and forests. Together, the emission reduction potential of these three sectors makes up roughly 40% of the total emission reduction potential estimated in the Bridging the Emissions Gap Report (UNEP, 2011). Besides the relative importance of these sectors in terms of their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, they also offer examples of how ambitious policy instruments that lead to significant emission reductions can foster innovation and economic growth, bolster national energy security, improve public health and address other key developmental priorities. A key objective of the review of best practice policies is to demonstrate how they can be scaled up (both in ambition and geographical reach) in different countries and regions with due consideration to national differences and circumstances. Therefore, the chapter focuses not only on efficiency and equity issues, but also on political and economic factors that are the basis for successful policy design, implementation and enforcement. Regulatory issues of governance and legal and institutional settings are also discussed. Other policy instruments which could help achieve emission reductions in the power, industry, agriculture and waste sectors will be analysed in subsequent UNEP Emissions Gap Reports.

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