UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, delivered during the opening of the high-level segment at COP30 in Belém, Brazil. PHOTO/ Kiara Worth/UN Climate Change.
By PATRICK MAYOYO
newshub@eyewitness.africa
The high-level segment of the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) commenced in Belém, Brazil, with Simon Stiell, the UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, delivering a strong call for accelerated climate action.
In his remarks, Stiell emphasised the critical importance of fast-tracking global climate commitments as the world faces worsening climate disasters and economic disruptions.
As negotiators work tirelessly in Belém, Stiell underscored the progress made so far, with unprecedented investments in clean energy and green industries.
He lauded the world’s move toward a cleaner, more sustainable economy, highlighting a trillion-dollar push into renewable energy, quadrupling sustainable fuel targets, and a renewed focus on climate adaptation.
“We are no longer talking about what this COP must do – we are doing it. But we must strive for more,” Stiell declared, acknowledging the historic nature of the commitments made during the first week of COP30.
He noted that over $2.2 trillion had been invested in renewable energy last year alone, surpassing the GDP of over 180 nations.
However, Stiell cautioned that while progress is being made in the real economy, the pace of negotiations within the conference rooms has not kept up.
“The spirit is there, but the speed is not,” he said, stressing the need for urgency as climate-related disasters continue to wreak havoc on lives and economies worldwide.
Stiell’s comments also highlighted the importance of aligning the global climate process with the real-world economy, calling for faster implementation and broader distribution of benefits.
He pointed out that climate action is no longer a luxury but a necessity, as the impacts of climate change increasingly affect food prices, livelihoods, and global stability.
The UN climate chief pointed to specific areas where urgent action is needed, including speeding up the decision-making process and addressing the toughest issues head-on.
“Clearly, there is a huge amount of work ahead for ministers and negotiators,” Stiell said. “I urge you to get to the hardest issues fast. When these issues get pushed deep into extra time, everybody loses.”
Echoing the sense of urgency, Stiell warned against delays and diplomatic gamesmanship, noting that “performative diplomacy” has no place in this critical moment.
He called on all negotiators to “roll up their sleeves” and work together to resolve the outstanding issues that threaten to derail global climate efforts.
As COP30 enters its second week, the stakes have never been higher. Climate experts are closely watching the ongoing negotiations for signs of breakthrough agreements that could shape the future of global climate policy.
With the Amazon at the forefront of discussions and the world facing an escalating climate crisis, Stiell’s message is clear: time is running out, and immediate action is imperative.
In a final note of support, Stiell reassured delegates that the UN Climate Change Secretariat is fully committed to supporting the efforts of negotiators as they work toward a robust and equitable climate agreement.
“We will be with you every single step of the way,” he promised.
With critical discussions set to continue, the world is looking to COP30 for tangible commitments that will not only address the climate emergency but also ensure a just transition to a sustainable future for all.
