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In a call to action aimed at combating the ongoing climate crisis, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized the need for a substantial global initiative to ensure the world adheres to a safer, sustainable path. During a recent high-level meeting focused on the roles of non-State actors, Guterres reiterated the importance of these entities in helping consumers, investors, and regulators understand the essence of credible net-zero commitments.
As the impacts of extreme weather escalate, causing widespread human suffering and significant economic setbacks, the urgency to maintain global temperature increases below 1.5 degrees Celsius becomes ever more critical. In this context, Guterres convened the meeting to highlight the actions of various organizations and their strategies since 2022, which align with recommendations presented in a pivotal report initiated during COP27 in Sharm-el-Sheikh.
The Roadmap for Net Zero
The report, titled Integrity Matters, outlines ten essential recommendations that function as a practical guide for achieving accountable net-zero pledges. These recommendations clarify the considerations non-State actors must account for as they progress towards fulfilling their net-zero objectives and addressing the profound challenges of climate change.
In essence, net-zero refers to attaining a balance between the greenhouse gases emitted and those extracted from the atmosphere. Achieving this balance necessitates collaboration among businesses, financial institutions, and a variety of organizations working in conjunction with governments.
Advancing Towards Goals
During the event, Guterres expressed gratitude to non-State actors for their leadership in the drive towards net-zero targets but underscored the necessity for broader participation. He urged all non-State entities to develop robust and accountable transition plans by the upcoming COP30, emphasizing that these plans must align with the goal of capping global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius. The roadmap should detail interim milestones for the years 2025, 2030, and 2035, leading up to a definitive net-zero target by 2050.
“These plans must outline a pathway to phase out fossil fuels, grounded in scientific evidence. There’s a critical need to disclose policies concerning lobbying and engagement in policy formation, alongside a commitment to deep decarbonization across the entire value chain,” Guterres stated.
He notably cautioned against relying on questionable emissions offsets, particularly regarding Scope 3 emissions—those that involve indirect effects such as those from purchased goods and services, business travel, or waste management. “We are at a juncture where it is vital to accelerate our efforts rather than retract; this is the time for genuine ambition and transparency, not for superficial greenwashing,” he declared.
Collaboration with Governments
The Secretary-General also called for a transition from voluntary commitments to mandatory regulations. “The fate of humanity is on the line. Action cannot be optional. It is imperative that corporations and financial institutions disclose credible transition plans aligned with the 1.5-degree objective,” he insisted.
Furthermore, Guterres encouraged businesses, financial sectors, cities, and regions to actively collaborate with governments in developing their national climate action plans ahead of COP30. “It is essential that we support governments in providing policy and regulatory certainty aligned with a future respecting the 1.5-degree target. We must ensure that governments enhance the efforts of other actors, rather than obstruct them,” he emphasized.
Later that day, Guterres was expected to engage in discussions with climate scientists and civil society representatives, including young activists advocating for climate action.
For more insights and updates, visit our special events page, where comprehensive coverage of COP29 is available, featuring stories, videos, and in-depth analysis.
Source
news.un.org