The climate change performance index

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This year, no countries ranked in the top three positions of the index, despite heightened attention to climate change ahead of the Copenhagen summit. None of the analyzed nations are making sufficient practical contributions to avoid dangerous climate change and keep global warming below the 2 degrees Celsius limit. Notably, more emerging economies, including Brazil, India, and Mexico, have improved their standings alongside many European nations, yet significant work remains for these countries to achieve top grades. The index evaluates countries relative to one another, and the leading positions indicate better performance in climate protection rather than adequate contributions to mitigating climate change. Political will remains lacking, preventing the awarding of top ranks. The index currently focuses on energy-induced emissions, excluding those from land-use changes. Brazil has made strides in reducing deforestation, though it remains unclear if this is linked to decreased demand due to the economic crisis. Australia, China, Saudi Arabia, and Austria show particularly poor emissions trends, with Saudi Arabia's high emissions and obstructionist stance in UN negotiations leading to negative evaluations. The United States, Canada, and Russia also rank poorly. While the USA improved its position, it remains to be seen if President Obama's climate policies will effectively reduce emissions. The UK has passed a national clima