A new study in npj Climate Action finds that developed nations must reach net zero CO₂ earlier than current pledges suggest, while developing regions deserve near-term emissions space to support growth. The research warns that over-relying on future carbon removal weakens early action and shifts burdens to poorer countries. The effort-sharing framework covers ten global regions and applies three fairness principles: equality, capability, and responsibility. The findings challenge the adequacy of existing national climate commitments.