RIYADH: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Warns of Dire Consequences of Climate Inaction at COP29
High-Level Event on the Stocktake of “Integrity Matters”
Global leaders gathered at COP29 in Baku to discuss the urgent need for climate action and the challenges ahead.
Racing Against Time
Guterres highlighted the increasing difficulty of limiting temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius amidst extreme weather events.
Global Effort Towards Net-Zero
The secretary-general praised the global effort to achieve net-zero by mid-century but emphasized the need for stronger collaboration across sectors.
Call for Collaboration
Guterres urged businesses, financial institutions, cities, and regions to align with national governments on climate action plans.
Support for Climate Leaders
Guterres commended climate leaders and activists for being on the right side of history but warned that a low-carbon transition must happen on time to avoid catastrophic consequences.
Brazil’s Commitment
Brazil’s Vice President Geraldo Alckmin reaffirmed the country’s dedication to combating global warming through policies targeting deforestation and promoting renewable energy.
Green Energy Initiatives
Brazil aims to increase the use of biodiesel and ethanol in fuel production, positioning itself as a leading producer of sustainable aviation fuel.
Progress Among G20 Countries
Helena Vines Fiestas highlighted the surge in policies supporting non-state actors in transitioning to net-zero across G20 countries.
Enhancing Transparency
Simon Stiell announced a new initiative to strengthen transparency in environmental action through the redevelopment of the UNFCCC’s Global Climate Action Portal.
State-Level Commitments
Washington State Governor Jay Inslee reassured the audience that state-level commitments to climate action in the US would remain steadfast despite recent political shifts.
Urgency of Net-Zero Plans
Catherine McKenna emphasized the importance of high-integrity net-zero plans in her latest report, urging stakeholders to establish comprehensive transition plans by 2025.
Governmental Regulations Needed
McKenna advocated for stronger governmental regulations to ensure credible climate commitments and promote competitive investments.
Facing Obstacles
Guterres closed with a reminder of the significant obstacles on the path to net-zero goals and the need to combat those hindering progress.