Johan Rockström is one of the world’s leading authorities on the impact of climate change. In a broad ranging interview with Ambassador Amanda Ellis, he highlights the importance of the removal of energy subsidies and the introduction of a carbon tax, the need for accountability and the development of monitoring mechanisms for emissions reductions promises, which should become legally binding. We also need to develop carbon markets for nature—beyond fossil fuels—and to embed greater fairness and equity in the way we address climate change globally.