The goal of limiting global temperature is slipping away, Guterres

By Isaac OGANGA

The goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees is slipping away, that was the message by the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres at the G20 Summit in Bali, Indonesia, warning that the global community was dangerously close to tipping points and that climate chaos could become irreversible.

“We need a new approach. And so I have proposed a historic pact between developed and emerging economies – a Climate Solidarity Pact that combines the capacities and resources of developed and emerging economies for the benefit of all,” offered Guterres.

G20 countries are responsible for 80 percent of global emissions and are expected to make or break the Climate Solidarity Pact –meant to keep the limit of 1.5 degrees “alive.”

He is convinced that wealthier countries and International Financial Institutions would provide financial and technical assistance to help emerging economies accelerate their renewable energy transition.

“I, therefore, urge G20 economies to adopt an SDG stimulus package that will provide governments of the Global South with investments and liquidity, and offer debt relief and restructuring.

This will enable emerging economies to invest in healthcare, education, gender equality, and, renewable energy. To invest in their people and rescue the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” pleaded Guterres.

This comes amid an ongoing Conference on climate change in Sharm El Sheik in Egypt, with the UN Chief calling for a historic pact between developed and developing countries to combine capacities and pivot the world towards reducing carbon emissions, transforming energy systems, and avoiding a climate catastrophe.