Environment
IN his opening address at the June UN Climate Meetings on June 3, 2024, Simon Stiell, the UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, underscored the critical need for immediate and cohesive action against climate change, asserting that “we can’t afford rest stops, detours, or stumbles” at this juncture.
He emphasized the transition from planning to full-scale implementation of the Paris Agreement’s objectives, focusing on key areas such as finance, national climate plans, transparency, and adaptation.
Finance: Stiell stressed the urgency of advancing climate finance, urging delegates to progress from initial drafts to concrete options for a new collective quantified goal. He called for increased grants and highly concessional finance for developing countries, comprehensive global financial reforms for debt relief and affordable finance, and the exploration of innovative financing sources beyond traditional methods.
Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): He described the forthcoming round of national climate plans (NDCs 3.0) as crucial blueprints for both mitigating emissions and enhancing economic and social resilience. Stiell urged for more ambitious and inclusive NDCs, covering all greenhouse gases and aligning with the 1.5-degree target. He highlighted the need for these plans to benefit everyone, including women, Indigenous Peoples, and youth, and pledged support through UNDP’s Climate Promise and the soon-to-be-launched NDC 3.0 Navigator.
Transparency: With the first Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs) due this year, Stiell highlighted their importance in building a robust evidence base for enhanced ambition and attracting donor and investor interest. He encouraged parties to submit these reports promptly, assuring that the secretariat would provide extensive capacity-building support.
Impacts and Adaptation: Stiell called for comprehensive National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) encompassing all sectors and societies, with a goal of significantly increasing the number of parties with such plans by the next meeting in Baku. He emphasized the need for substantial progress in implementing these plans by 2030.
Civil Society and Inclusiveness: Stiell stressed the crucial role of civil society in ensuring that climate action benefits are equitably distributed through a just transition. He also underscored the importance of advancing gender equality alongside climate action.
Budget and Process: Stiell acknowledged the growing mandates and events directed by the parties, noting the discrepancy between these increasing demands and stagnant financial contributions. He called for sustainable and consistent funding to meet these needs.
In conclusion, Stiell urged delegates to overcome obstacles and differences, stressing the importance of trust, respect, and adherence to the code of conduct. He encouraged them to find solutions and forge pathways forward, emphasizing that global climate progress cannot afford to stall at this critical moment. (UNFCCC)
F.A
June 3, 2024
Tags: Climate Change UN Climate Change Executive Secretary
