Archive · 4 Jan 2026
14 Global Trends Shaping Climate in 2026
In 2026, the world will continue to face significant climate challenges.
China will set new climate targets in its five-year plan, while international negotiators will work towards a roadmap to phase out fossil fuels and deforestation at COP31.
Developing countries are expected to make progress in adopting renewable energy and electric vehicles, driven by access to Chinese technology.
The clean tech sector will see continued investment, particularly in data centers and nuclear energy.
However, the US will face policy and financial headwinds under the Trump administration, which is expected to finalize controversial greenhouse gas regulations rollback.
The fate of FEMA will also be decided, with potential reforms or abolition.
California will continue to face challenges in meeting its climate goals due to the Trump administration's policies.
Additionally, investors will be watching the impact of AI on energy demand and grid infrastructure.
China will set new climate targets in its five-year plan, with a focus on carbon intensity.
International negotiators will work towards a roadmap to phase out fossil fuels and deforestation at COP31.
Developing countries are expected to make progress in adopting renewable energy and electric vehicles, driven by access to Chinese technology.
The clean tech sector will see continued investment, particularly in data centers and nuclear energy.
The US will face policy and financial headwinds under the Trump administration, which is expected to finalize controversial greenhouse gas regulations rollback.
- Who
- Global leaders, policymakers, and industries
- What
- Key climate trends and developments shaping the global climate landscape in 2026
- When
- Throughout 2026, with specific events and milestones scheduled
- Where
- Globally, with a focus on the US, China, and other developing countries
- Why
- To assess progress and challenges in meeting climate goals and targets
- China's Five-Year Plan
- Expected to set new climate targets in 2026
- COP31
- Scheduled for November 2026 in Antalya, Turkey
- Global EV Sales
- Expected to reach 16.9 million by September 2026
- US Renewables
- Facing policy and financial headwinds under Trump administration
- EPA Rulemaking
- Expected to finalize controversial greenhouse gas regulations rollback in 2026
- FEMA's Fate
- Trump administration reviewing potential reforms or abolition
- California Climate Goals
- Facing challenges from Trump administration's policies
- AI and Energy
- Investors concerned about AI's impact on energy demand and grid infrastructure