CCAC NDC Watch – Pre-COP Review of the Latest Non-CO₂ Pollutants in National Climate Plans
Last week, the UNFCCC Secretariat published a synthesis report summarizing data from 64 new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted by September 30, 2025. The findings reveal notable progress and expanding efforts to tackle climate change across member nations.
Key Findings on Super Pollutants
According to the analysis, countries participating in the Paris Agreement are increasingly incorporating actions on super pollutants into their mitigation strategies. These pollutants now form an essential part of broader greenhouse gas reduction commitments.
- The number of NDCs addressing methane, nitrous oxide, and HFCs rose by 22%, 22%, and 61% respectively, compared to pre-2020 submissions.
- The inclusion of black carbon doubled, and references to non-methane tropospheric ozone precursors tripled, reflecting stronger ambitions to combat these emissions.
Quantified Targets and Mitigation Assessments
Countries are also showing progress in setting measurable targets and evaluating mitigation potential. Before 2020, very few NDCs included such quantifications—only two mentioned black carbon specifically.
As of the 30 September 2025 update:
- 35 nations include quantified methane targets or assessments.
- 23 countries have quantified HFC targets.
- 9 countries provide similar assessments for black carbon.
The report highlights “real and increasing progress on action to address climate change.”
CCAC Guidance Context
Although not strictly recommended under the CCAC Guidance, the growing inclusion of black carbon and ozone precursor measures demonstrates countries’ willingness to exceed basic requirements and pursue deeper emission reductions.
Summary
The expanding scope and depth of national climate plans illustrate a clear shift toward integrating super pollutant control within broader emission strategies, signaling increased global climate ambition.
Author’s summary: The 2025 UNFCCC report confirms unprecedented progress as more nations set quantified targets for super pollutants, demonstrating a rising global commitment to deeper climate action.