To combat the COVID-19 pandemic and the “looming existential threat of climate disruption”, the only credible response is “brave, visionary and collaborative leadership” anchored in mutilateralism, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, said during an international discussion focused on climate change.
And against the backdrop of threatened lives, crippled businesses and damaged economies, the UN chief warned the Petersberg Climate Dialogue in Berlin that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are also under threat.
“The highest cost is the cost of doing nothing”, he spelled out, underscoring the need to urgently “strengthen resilience and cut greenhouse gas emissions to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees” above pre-industrial levels, to mitigate climate change.
Heartened by technology and public opinion, especially among the younger generations, he observed that many cities and businesses are taking action.
“But we still lack the necessary political will”, he said, advocating for “significantly more ambition” on mitigation, adaptation and financing.
On mitigation, all countries must commit to carbon neutrality by 2050. And developing countries – least responsible for climate change but most vulnerable to its impacts – need resilience-building support. This requires adequate financing, beginning with a promised $100 billion dollars a year for mitigation and adaptation efforts, added Mr. Guterres.
In planning the coronavirus pandemic recovery, there is “a profound opportunity” to steer the world on “a path that tackles climate change, protects the environment, reverses biodiversity loss and ensures the long-term health and security of humankind”, the Secretary-General said.
“By making the transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient growth, we can create a world that is clean, green, safe, just and more prosperous for all”, he emphasized.
As such, he proposed six different climate-related actions that countries can take, to shape the recovery:
1. Deliver new jobs and businesses through a green and just transition while accelerating the decarbonization of all aspects of the economy.
2. Use taxpayers’ money to create green jobs and inclusive growth when rescuing businesses.
3. Shift economies from grey to green, with using public financing that makes societies more resilient.
4. Invest public funds in the future, to projects that help the environment and climate.
5. Consider risks and opportunities for your own economy, as the global financial system works to shape policy and infrastructure.
6. Work together as an international community to combat COVID-19 and climate change.
Original source: UN News
Published on 28 April 2020
