Urgent Call for a Global Carbon Tax in Africa to Address the Climate Crisis

A new study by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) has revealed the potential benefits of implementing a global carbon tax framework to combat climate change. The study shows that if all nations contribute based on their income status, significant progress can be made in reducing harmful emissions and funding renewable energy projects.

Carbon taxing is a direct and transparent way to discourage pollution by imposing a fee on each tonne of emitted carbon. Despite the backing of global financial institutions and African leaders, only a few countries, including major polluters, have adopted a carbon tax. This lack of action could have severe consequences for both developed and developing countries.

The world recently recorded its highest atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, exceeding the recommended levels to keep the 1.5°C ambition alive. The ISS modelling predicts that without immediate action, the world is on track for a 3°C warmer world by the end of the century.

Africa, despite contributing less than 5% of global fossil fuel emissions, suffers disproportionately from climate change impacts. The ISS modelling estimates that Africa will produce a significant percentage of global carbon emissions by 2050 and 2063.

Implementing a global carbon tax framework could incentivize reductions in emissions, promote sustainable practices, and generate revenue for adaptation and mitigation projects. However, challenges remain, including potential social and economic effects on vulnerable communities. Nonetheless, a global carbon tax could be a crucial tool in effective climate governance if all nations, especially the top polluters, actively participate.