By Abdullahi Lukman
As the world glides towards COP30, slated for Brazil later this year, the United Nations (UN) has charged nations to intensify efforts at developing climate plans to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, and Director of the UN Information Centre, Roland Kayanja, delivered the charge at separate fora.
Guyerres remarks came after a virtual closed-door Leaders Session on Climate and the Just Transition, which he co-hosted with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
The session was attended by heads of state from some of the world’s largest economies, including China, the European Union, and a diverse group of leaders from the African Union, ASEAN, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), and the Alliance of Small Island States.
Guterres highlighted the urgency of accelerating climate action to avoid catastrophic consequences, as nations across the globe experience the devastating impacts of climate change.
“We cannot allow climate commitments to be derailed,” Guterres emphasized, underscoring the importance of building momentum ahead of COP30 in Brazil later this year.
He warned that no region is immune to the effects of climate disasters, which are exacerbating poverty, displacing communities, and fueling conflict worldwide.
One of the key points discussed during the session was the growing opportunity presented by renewable energy. Guterres praised the clean energy revolution, noting that the cost of renewables has dropped significantly, leading to job creation and economic growth globally.
He called renewables “the economic opportunity of the century,” adding that they offer a pathway to energy sovereignty, security, and reduced dependence on expensive fossil fuel imports.
“We are witnessing the surest route to energy sovereignty and security through renewables,” Guterres said, stressing that no group or government can halt the transition to clean energy. “The pathway out of climate hell is paved by renewables.”
Guterres also pointed to the progress made since the adoption of the Paris Agreement, with global warming projections now lower than before. However, he cautioned that a 2.6-degree rise in global temperatures—if current national plans are fully implemented—would still result in catastrophic consequences.
He urged leaders to step up their efforts and adopt stronger climate plans to keep global warming within the 1.5-degree target.
Guterres called on leaders to take action in two key areas. First, he urged nations to submit robust climate plans ahead of COP30, aligning them with the 1.5-degree target and ensuring a just transition to renewable energy.
These plans should include emissions-reduction targets for all sectors and greenhouse gases, he maintained, highlighting the disproportionate impacts of climate change on developing nations, particularly in Africa and small island states.
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The UN chief called for a clear roadmap to mobilize $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 to support developing countries.
He also urged developed nations to honor their commitments to increase adaptation finance and contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund.
“We must do more to support those most vulnerable to climate change,” Guterres stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address the financial gaps and ensure a just transition for all countries.
As the global community prepares for COP30, Guterres stated, “We cannot, must not, and will not let up on climate action. It’s time for all nations to step up and deliver.”
Kayanja, spoke during the commemoration of International Mother Earth Day in Abuja, Nigeria, highlighting the critical need for stronger climate measures to avoid severe environmental consequences.
Kayanja, represented by Mrs. Bolanle Olumekor, Digital Media Assistant at the UN Information Centre, stressed the importance of countries, especially those in the G20, leading the way in climate action.
“It is crucial that countries act swiftly and decisively to address pollution, stop biodiversity loss, and secure funding for environmental protection,” Kayanja said. He expressed hope that 2025 could be a pivotal year for restoring the planet’s health.
The celebration of International Mother Earth Day, established by the UN General Assembly in 2009, emphasized the Earth’s ecosystems as a shared home that requires protection.
The day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to combat climate change and prevent biodiversity loss for the well-being of future generations.
Dr. Umar Yakasai, Director General of the Tinubu Campaign Organisations, also addressed the event, calling for collective action to safeguard the environment.
Yakasai highlighted the responsibility of humanity to protect nature for future generations, suggesting initiatives such as tree planting as a practical solution.
Mr. Roland Echee, Director of Parks and Recreation in Abuja, spoke about the value of Mother Earth and called for commitment to sustainable practices to ensure environmental preservation.
He emphasized that every small action counts in the fight against climate change.
The President of the Association of Flower Nurseries and Landscaping Practitioners of Abuja, Hajiya Fatima Kachallah, echoed these sentiments, reinforcing the role of tree planting in mitigating climate change’s effects.
She stressed the importance of environmentally friendly practices and education to conserve and protect the planet.
The event underscored the importance of global collaboration in addressing climate challenges, urging individuals and governments to take immediate action to ensure a sustainable future for all.
