Pre-COP Review of the Latest Non-CO₂ Pollutants in National Climate Plans
In the latest synthesis report released by the UNFCCC Secretariat, data from 64 newly submitted nationally determined contributions (NDCs) up to 30 September 2025 have been analyzed. The findings show growing progress among countries in addressing climate change.
Integration of Super Pollutants in Climate Strategies
According to the report, nations participating in the Paris Agreement are increasingly incorporating actions targeting super pollutants within their broader greenhouse gas mitigation frameworks. This shift illustrates a stronger global response toward short-lived climate pollutants.
- Methane inclusion has increased by 22% compared to pre-2020 NDCs.
- Nitrous oxide inclusion rose by 22% as well.
- HFC coverage grew by 61%.
Expanding Scope of Climate Commitments
Although not strictly recommended under the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) guidance, more countries are addressing additional pollutants. The inclusion of black carbon doubled, while non-methane tropospheric ozone precursors tripled, indicating a higher level of ambition.
Quantified Targets and Assessments
Before 2020, nearly no NDCs offered quantified targets for super pollutants. Now, a marked shift is evident:
- 35 countries include quantified methane targets or mitigation assessments.
- 23 countries include similar commitments for HFCs.
- 9 countries extend such measures to black carbon.
“Compared to pre-2020 NDCs, the number of countries covering methane, nitrous oxide, and HFCs has increased by 22%, 22%, and 61% respectively.”
Outlook
The emerging focus on non-CO₂ pollutants reflects how national climate strategies are evolving from general emission goals to a more integrated, pollutant-specific approach.
Author’s summary: The 2025 NDCs show a decisive global shift toward addressing super pollutants like methane, HFCs, and black carbon, marking stronger climate ambitions and measurable goals.