UN Secretary-General climate directives post-COP29
In a decisive statement following the conclusion of COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a clarion call to countries worldwide, emphasizing the urgency of climate action and laying out a roadmap for the next phase of global commitments.
“Countries must deliver new economy-wide national climate action plans – or NDCs – aligned with 1.5 degrees, well ahead of COP30 – as promised,” Guterres asserted, underlining the importance of updated commitments to counter the worsening climate crisis.
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COP29 follows a year marked by devastating climate disasters and record-breaking temperatures.
“COP29 comes at the close of a brutal year – a year seared by record temperatures, and scarred by climate disaster, all as emissions continue to rise,” said Guterres.
His remarks highlighted the stark reality of the world’s failure to curb emissions adequately, despite years of pledges.
Guterres underscored that finance remains the top priority for addressing climate challenges, particularly for developing nations.
“Developing countries swamped by debt, pummelled by disasters, and left behind in the renewables revolution, are in desperate need of funds,” he said.
COP29 saw critical agreements aimed at keeping the 1.5-degree Celsius limit alive, though Guterres acknowledged the outcome fell short of his expectations.
“I had hoped for a more ambitious outcome – on both finance and mitigation – to meet the great challenge we face. But this agreement provides a base on which to build,” he remarked, calling on countries to ensure swift and full implementation of financial commitments.
A significant portion of Guterres' address was directed at the G20 nations, the largest emitters of greenhouse gases. “The G20 countries, the biggest emitters, must lead,” he emphasized.
He called for national plans that encompass all emissions, accelerate the phase-out of fossil fuels, and contribute to the global energy transition.
“The end of the fossil fuel age is an economic inevitability,” Guterres declared, urging countries to seize the opportunity presented by affordable, clean renewable energy.
Despite the challenges of a divided geopolitical landscape, COP29 made progress on emissions reductions and carbon markets.
“This was a complex negotiation in an uncertain and divided geopolitical landscape. I commend everyone who worked hard to build consensus,” Guterres said, praising the efforts of negotiators and emphasizing the enduring importance of multilateralism.
Addressing systemic inequalities in global finance, Guterres called for immediate action on debt relief and concessional finance.
“We need swift action to deliver on commitments made in the Pact for the Future,” he noted, advocating for a stronger role for Multilateral Development Banks with increased lending capacities.
Guterres expressed gratitude to Azerbaijan for hosting COP29 and extended appreciation to delegates, youth activists, and civil society.
“I commend all the delegates, young people, and civil society representatives who came to Baku to push parties for maximum ambition and justice,” he said, urging continued activism.
“Keep it up. The United Nations is with you. Our fight continues. And we will never give up.”
As the global community looks ahead to COP30, the Secretary-General’s directions serve as a stern reminder of the urgency of climate action.
The challenge now lies in turning words into action and ensuring a sustainable future for all.
