As world leaders gather for COP29 in Azerbaijan amidst a record hot year, the article explores the uneven progress in tackling climate change. While fossil fuel usage continues to rise and new projects emerge, there are signs of growth in renewable energy and electric vehicle adoption. Despite Brazil’s efforts to curb deforestation in the Amazon, global deforestation rates remain concerning. Overall, projections show emissions may lead to a temperature rise of 3°C by century’s end, significantly beyond the 1.5°C target.