The Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025, released by German-watch, NewClimate Institute, and Climate Action Network (CAN), evaluates the climate performance of 63 countries plus the EU, covering over 90% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The report highlights both progress and setbacks in the global transition to clean energy.
Renewables on the Rise – Fossil Fuels Still a Problem
The good news: 61 of 64 countries increased their share of renewable energy in the last five years. Costs for solar and wind continue to fall, making clean power more accessible worldwide.
The bad news: Many nations are still heavily dependent on fossil fuels, especially natural gas and coal, undermining global climate goals.
Who Leads in 2025?
As in past years, the top three spots remain empty, because no country is on track for a 1.5°C pathway. Still, some nations stand out:
- Denmark (Rank 4) – Still the global frontrunner, the only country rated high in climate policy.
- Netherlands (Rank 5) – Rising fast, though political uncertainty clouds its outlook.
- United Kingdom (Rank 6) – A big climber thanks to its coal phase-out and halt on new oil and gas licenses.
- India (Rank 10) – Strong progress in renewables, but still reliant on coal
Ranking of CCPI 2025
Who is Falling Behind?
- Argentina (Rank 59) – Dropped six places after its new government rolled back climate commitments.
- United States (Rank 57) – Still among the very low performers despite renewable investments.
- China (Rank 55) – Huge renewable expansion, but still locked into coal dependency.
- Worst Performers: Iran (67), Saudi Arabia (66), UAE (65), and Russia (64) — all major oil and gas producers with less than 3% renewables in their energy mix.
🇪🇺 The European Union in the Middle
The EU ranks 17th overall, with 16 EU member states scoring in the medium-to-high range. However, ongoing fossil fuel subsidies and weak agriculture reforms slow progress. Denmark and the Netherlands boost the EU’s standing, while countries like Bulgaria and Poland drag it down.
G20 – Responsibility Without Action
The G20 countries, responsible for over 75% of global emissions, remain central to climate action. But most of them underperform:
- Only the UK and India are ranked as high performers.
- South Korea (63), Russia (64), and Saudi Arabia (66) are at the bottom.
Key Takeaway
The CCPI 2025 shows a world in transition: renewable energy is booming, but fossil fuels still dominate. No country yet meets the standards of the Paris Agreement, but leaders like Denmark, the UK, and India prove that ambitious climate policy can drive real progress.
