5 From COP promises to action on the ground

The previous section showed how COP agreements have marked important progress in international climate change commitments. It is essential that these commitments are adhered to, regardless of changes in government. It is also essential that Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are progressive (i.e. ratcheted up) for the commitments to be met. But just how much do emissions need to fall to limit warming to below 2 °C or 1.5 °C, and how do pledges translate into actions on the ground?