BRICS and Sustainable Development Goals: Leadership in Global Climate Governance

Introduction

In the context of escalating climate challenges and shifting geopolitical dynamics, emerging economies, particularly the BRICS group—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—have become pivotal actors in global climate governance. Representing over 35% of the global economy and more than 45% of the world’s population, BRICS wields significant influence in shaping sustainable development pathways aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The bloc advocates for balanced green growth policies based on the principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC), emphasizing equity in climate action responsibilities according to historical emissions and current capacities. This report examines BRICS’ climate governance strategies, financial mechanisms, multilateral collaborations, and the implications of recent geopolitical developments, highlighting their alignment with the SDGs.

BRICS Climate Strategy: Finance, Innovation, and SDG Alignment

New Development Bank (NDB) and Sustainable Infrastructure

Established in 2014, the New Development Bank (NDB) serves as a critical financial institution mobilizing resources for infrastructure and sustainable development across BRICS member states and other emerging economies. The NDB’s governance model ensures equal representation, reflecting BRICS’ commitment to inclusivity and shared decision-making.

The bank’s investments target key sectors contributing to multiple SDGs, including:

1. Transport Infrastructure: USD 11.67 billion invested in 2023, supporting SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
2. Clean Energy and Water Projects: Steady growth in funding aligns with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).
3. Social and Digital Infrastructure: Investments, though modest, contribute to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9.

This portfolio growth demonstrates BRICS’ commitment to sustainable development and infrastructure financing that supports climate resilience and socio-economic progress.

16th BRICS Summit in Kazan: Reinforcing Climate Commitments

At the 16^th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia (October 22–24, 2024), the bloc reaffirmed the CBDR-RC principle as foundational to its climate policies, emphasizing the historical responsibility of developed nations (SDG 13: Climate Action). The summit highlighted successes in:

• Funding renewable energy projects
• Promoting green infrastructure
• Supporting climate-resilient urban development

BRICS leaders advocated for equitable global climate frameworks, pushing back against unfair burdens on developing countries and emphasizing green financing, capacity building, and technology transfer—key enablers for achieving SDGs 7, 9, and 13.

BRICS in Global Climate Forums: Championing Equity and Inclusivity

Advocacy for Fair Climate Policies

BRICS has emerged as a vital voice in international climate negotiations, underscoring the disproportionate impacts of climate change on developing countries and the necessity for fair policy frameworks. The coalition’s steadfast commitment to the CBDR and CBDR-RC principles aligns with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Key advocacy points include:

• Urging developed countries to fulfill climate finance commitments under the Paris Agreement (USD 100 billion annually), critical for SDG 13 and SDG 1 (No Poverty).
• Promoting a holistic approach that integrates socio-economic development with environmental sustainability, addressing poverty alleviation, energy access, and infrastructure development.

South-South Cooperation and Regional Partnerships

BRICS actively coordinates climate strategies with regional organizations such as the African Union and ASEAN, enhancing South-South cooperation. These partnerships facilitate:

• Exchange of best practices
• Technological and financial capacity building
• Advancement of climate resilience across diverse ecosystems

Initiatives include renewable energy projects, reforestation, and water resource management, directly contributing to SDGs 6, 7, 13, and 15 (Life on Land).

Annual Sustainability Forums

BRICS hosts annual forums that convene policymakers, scientists, activists, and business leaders to foster innovation and consensus on:

• Carbon markets
• Green finance
• Biodiversity conservation

These forums support the development of pragmatic, locally adaptable solutions to global climate challenges, reinforcing SDG 17.

Implications of the 2024 US Presidential Election for BRICS and Climate Governance

Potential Challenges and Opportunities

Donald Trump’s re-election as the 45^th President of the United States raises concerns regarding the US commitment to international climate agreements and finance. Historical policies under the Trump administration included:

• Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement
• Deregulation of the fossil fuel industry
• Promotion of non-renewable energy sources

These actions could undermine global emission reduction targets and reduce climate finance flows, disproportionately affecting developing nations reliant on external support (SDG 13, SDG 7, SDG 10).

BRICS’ Strategic Response

In this context, BRICS has the opportunity to assume global leadership in climate governance by:

• Leveraging blockchain technology for transparent carbon footprint tracking and emissions reporting, enhancing accountability (SDG 9, SDG 13).
• Promoting renewable energy projects tailored to developing nations’ needs, including solar, wind, and green hydrogen initiatives (SDG 7).
• Strengthening internal technology transfers to reduce dependence on external funding and foster equitable access to green technologies (SDG 9, SDG 17).

Recommendations for Strengthening BRICS’ Role in Climate Governance

Research, Innovation, and Technology

1. Expand climate research networks incorporating academic and private sector partnerships focused on advanced climate modeling, AI-based environmental monitoring, and renewable technologies (SDG 9, SDG 13).
2. Invest in blockchain and smart contract technologies to improve transparency and efficiency in emissions tracking (SDG 9, SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).
3. Promote technology transfer among member states to enhance self-sufficiency and equitable access to innovations (SDG 17).

Financial Mechanisms

1. Strengthen the NDB by introducing green bonds and carbon trading schemes to mobilize sustainable finance effectively (SDG 13, SDG 17).
2. Establish a global climate fund dedicated to emerging economies to address critical environmental challenges (SDG 1, SDG 13).
3. Focus on internal resource mobilization to mitigate risks associated with reduced external financial support.

South-South Cooperation and Global Diplomacy

1. Enhance collaboration with regional organizations such as the African Union and ASEAN to share best practices and build climate resilience (SDG 17).
2. Adopt a proactive diplomatic stance in UNFCCC negotiations advocating for equitable climate policies that prioritize developing nations (SDG 10, SDG 13).
3. Forge partnerships with climate-progressive regions like the European Union to balance global climate governance (SDG 17).

Renewable Energy and Public-Private Engagement

1. Strengthen initiatives such as the BRICS Renewable Energy Fund (ERCP) to support large-scale renewable projects (SDG 7, SDG 13).
2. Develop regional energy grids to enhance renewable energy distribution efficiency and energy independence (SDG 7).
3. Engage public and private sectors through annual sustainability forums and incentives like tax breaks and subsidies to accelerate climate resilience and green technology development (SDG 9, SDG 17).

Multilateral Agreements and Sustainable Urbanization

1. Co-lead international climate accords focusing on disaster risk reduction, green finance, and sustainable urbanization (SDG 11, SDG 13).
2. Promote a balanced approach integrating socio-economic development with environmental objectives (SDG 1, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Conclusion

BRICS is strategically positioned to lead global climate governance by championing the interests of the Global South and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Through equitable financing, technological innovation, and robust multilateral cooperation, the bloc exemplifies a balanced development model that integrates climate action with socio-economic progress. By implementing the outlined recommendations, BRICS can solidify its leadership role, fostering climate justice, resilience, and sustainable development worldwide.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • Article discusses BRICS investments in renewable energy projects, clean energy infrastructure, and energy access for developing nations.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • Focus on infrastructure financing by the New Development Bank (NDB), including transport, digital, and social infrastructure.
   • Emphasis on innovation such as blockchain technology for climate goals.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Central theme of the article is climate governance, climate finance, mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.
   • BRICS advocacy for equitable climate policies and leadership in global climate forums.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • BRICS cooperation with regional organizations (African Union, ASEAN), South-South cooperation, and multilateral climate diplomacy.
   • Emphasis on financial mechanisms like the NDB and green bonds.
5. SDG 1: No Poverty
   • Linking climate action with poverty alleviation and socio-economic development.
6. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Investments in water projects mentioned as part of NDB portfolio.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 7 – Target 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
   • BRICS funding renewable energy projects and promoting green infrastructure.
2. SDG 9 – Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure.
   • NDB investments in transport, digital, social, and environmental infrastructure.
3. SDG 13 – Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards.
   • BRICS focus on climate resilience and sustainable urban development.
4. SDG 13 – Target 13.a: Implement the commitment undertaken by developed-country parties to the UNFCCC to mobilize USD 100 billion annually by 2020 for climate action in developing countries.
   • BRICS advocacy for climate finance commitments from developed countries.
5. SDG 17 – Target 17.3: Mobilize additional financial resources for developing countries from multiple sources.
   • Role of NDB, green bonds, and climate funds for emerging economies.
6. SDG 17 – Target 17.6: Enhance North-South, South-South and triangular regional and international cooperation on and access to science, technology and innovation.
   • BRICS emphasis on technology transfers, blockchain, and innovation partnerships.
7. SDG 1 – Target 1.5: Build resilience of the poor and reduce their exposure to climate-related extreme events.
   • Linking climate action with poverty alleviation and socio-economic development.
8. SDG 6 – Target 6.4: Increase water-use efficiency and ensure sustainable withdrawals.
   • NDB investments in water projects to improve water resource management.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Financial Indicators:
   • Amount of investments by NDB in sectors such as transport infrastructure (e.g., USD 11.67 billion in 2023), clean energy, and water projects.
   • Mobilization of climate finance, including green bonds and carbon trading schemes.
   • Tracking of USD 100 billion annual climate finance commitment from developed countries.
2. Climate Action Indicators:
   • Progress in renewable energy capacity and projects funded by BRICS.
   • Implementation of climate resilience and adaptation projects in member countries.
   • Use of blockchain technology for real-time emissions monitoring and carbon footprint tracking.
3. Partnership and Cooperation Indicators:
   • Number and scope of partnerships with regional organizations (African Union, ASEAN).
   • Frequency and impact of sustainability forums hosted by BRICS.
   • Technology transfer agreements and collaborative research initiatives.
4. Socio-economic Indicators:
   • Improvements in poverty alleviation linked to climate initiatives.
   • Access to energy and infrastructure development metrics in emerging economies.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: moderndiplomacy.eu