Developing countries are facing uncertainty over future climate funding as several wealthy nations have yet to explain how they will meet their financial commitments. The issue has become an important topic at the COP31 climate summit in Turkey. Under an agreement reached at COP29, industrialised countries are expected to provide $300 billion each year by 2035. A wider target also aims to bring in about $1 trillion from other sources to help countries deal with extreme weather and move towards cleaner energy.
However, many governments have not yet published clear plans for the years ahead. This makes it difficult for poorer countries to prepare national budgets, develop long-term projects and attract private investment. Climate finance can support flood protection, clean electricity, stronger transport systems and other measures that help communities respond to rising temperatures. Without reliable information about future funding, governments may delay projects or struggle to decide which areas need the most support.
Research by the Natural Resources Defense Council and E3G suggests that wealthy countries are broadly on track to meet the $300 billion annual target by 2035. But that progress depends on existing contributions continuing, and there are concerns about gaps if major donors reduce their support. France, Germany and Australia are among the countries facing questions about their future plans, while the United Kingdom has already reduced some climate funding. The debate at COP31 is therefore not only about how much money will be provided, but also whether governments can make their commitments clear and dependable. Developing nations say predictable funding is essential if they are expected to prepare for climate risks while also building cleaner economies.
