Climate Change Progress in 2025: How Far Have We Come and What’s Next?
- Aditi Rao
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
As we reach the midpoint of the 2020s, the world stands at a crucial juncture in the fight against climate change.
The year 2025 marks a reflective moment — not only to assess how far we've come but also to look ahead at what remains to be done.
Climate change has moved from a distant threat to a present-day crisis, but it has also sparked unprecedented action across governments, industries, and communities.
Progress So Far: Wins Worth Celebrating
Renewable Energy Surpasses Fossil Fuels in Key Regions
In 2025, for the first time in history, renewable energy sources overtaken coal in global electricity generation. Solar and wind, bolstered by falling costs and improved storage technology, now make up more than 35% of the world’s energy mix. Countries like Germany, India, and Brazil are leading the transition, showing that clean energy is not only possible — it's profitable.
Supporting data: IRENA Global Renewables Outlook 2024
EV Adoption Hits Critical Mass
With nearly 30% of new vehicles sold globally being electric, the auto industry has passed a major tipping point. Battery prices have dropped by over 80% in the past decade, making EVs accessible for the mainstream market. Public charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly, especially in urban centers.
Supporting data: IEA Global EV Outlook 2024
Deforestation Slows — and Rewilding Begins
Due to global treaties and local enforcement, deforestation in the Amazon and Congo Basin has slowed significantly. Meanwhile, “rewilding” projects — restoring ecosystems with native species — have gained traction in Europe, parts of Asia, and North America.
Supporting data: Global Forest Watch Annual Report 2024
Climate Finance Sees a Boost
Climate-related investments from both the public and private sectors have surged. In 2025, global green investment reached $1.5 trillion, supporting clean tech, carbon markets, and resilience projects in vulnerable regions.
Supporting data: Climate Policy Initiative Report 2024
What’s Still Holding Us Back?
While these wins are encouraging, major challenges persist:
Emissions Are Still Too High: Despite progress, global CO₂ emissions need to fall nearly 50% by 2030 to meet the Paris Agreement’s goals. In 2025, emissions have plateaued — better than rising, but not enough.
Climate Injustice Remains: Developing nations still bear the brunt of climate impacts like droughts and rising sea levels, while wealthier nations fall short on financial aid promises.
Methane and Plastic Pollution: Methane emissions from agriculture and plastic waste in oceans remain stubborn problems, requiring urgent innovation and stronger regulations.
Global Methane Assessment (UNEP)Our World in Data - Plastics
What’s Next?
To truly bend the climate curve, the next 5 years are critical. Here's where we need to go:
Accelerate Net-Zero Pledges into Action: More than 140 countries have net-zero targets. 2025 must be the year when policies and budgets start matching the rhetoric.
Scale Climate Adaptation: From sea walls to climate-resilient crops, investments in adaptation need to triple by 2030, especially in climate-vulnerable nations.
Empower Local Climate Movements: Grassroots action has driven much of the change so far. Continued support for youth-led, Indigenous, and community-based efforts is essential.
IPCC AR6 Working Group II Report
In Summary
Climate change progress in 2025 is real — but fragile. We've made meaningful strides in energy, transportation, and environmental restoration.
But staying the course and accelerating it is non-negotiable. The clock is still ticking, and what we do between now and 2030 will define the planet’s future.
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