Fighting Climate Change Demands Urgent Action in Environmental, Financial, Energy Sectors, Delegates Stress, as Second Committee Continues Its General Debate
Fighting Climate Change Demands Urgent Action in Environmental ... United Nations
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The Threats of Climate Change and the Sustainable Development Goals
The threats and ravages of climate change are inextricably linked to national and global progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), requiring urgent action in the environmental, financial, and energy sectors. Speakers at the Second Committee (Economic Financial) annual general debate emphasized the need for international cooperation and coordination to address these challenges.
Kazakhstan’s Call for International Cooperation
- The representative of Kazakhstan called for special attention to the needs of geographically disadvantaged countries like his own, warning of a 2 to 2.5°C increase in temperature in Central Asia.
- Kazakhstan proposed hosting a regional climate summit in 2026 under United Nations auspices and submitted a consensus resolution focusing on international cooperation and coordination for the rehabilitation and economic development of the Semipalatinsk region.
Andorra’s Focus on Tourism and Sustainable Development
- The representative of Andorra highlighted the vulnerability of landlocked and mountainous countries like Andorra to climate change.
- Andorra formed the Working Community of the Pyrenees, including the Pyrenean Climate Change Observatory, to provide recommendations for sustainable policies in the region.
- Andorra launched the “green schools” initiative in 2010, emphasizing the role of education in sustainable development.
Uruguay’s Emphasis on Environmental Sustainability
- The representative of Uruguay stressed the need for a more inclusive and equitable recovery with strengthened environmental commitments.
- Uruguay is increasing renewables in its energy matrix to 56% by 2022 and emphasized its commitment to environmental sustainability.
- Uruguay called for specific adaptation and mitigation measures at the United Nations Climate Change Conference and the operationalization of the loss and damage fund.
Timor-Leste’s Commitment to Biodiversity and Climate Action
- The representative of Timor-Leste pledged to promote policies that reverse biodiversity loss and restore ecosystem services through nature-based solutions.
- Timor-Leste stressed the importance of fulfilling commitments on official development assistance (ODA) and climate finance and called for substantial support from development partners.
- Timor-Leste emphasized compliance with the Paris Agreement on climate change and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda.
Other Member States’ Responses
- The representative of the Republic of Korea pledged to increase its green ODA and act as a “green ladder” to help climate-vulnerable countries reduce carbon emissions.
- Kuwait highlighted its concrete steps to address climate challenges, including the inauguration of a desalination plant using solar panels and the launch of a solar park.
- Spain committed to phasing out fossil fuels, boosting energy efficiency, and called for increased ambition for resource mobilization and finance access.
- Ecuador highlighted its transition to a circular, resilient economy through the Ecuador Zero Carbon Programme and its commitment to protecting biodiversity.
Conclusion
The Second Committee’s annual general debate emphasized the urgent need for international cooperation and coordination to address the threats of climate change and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Member States highlighted their efforts to promote sustainable development, protect biodiversity, and mitigate climate change. The call for increased financial support, technology transfer, and compliance with international agreements was reiterated throughout the debate.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 1: No Poverty | – | – |
| SDG 2: Zero Hunger | – | – |
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | – | – |
| SDG 4: Quality Education | – | – |
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | – | – |
| SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | – | – |
| SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | – | – |
| SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | – | – |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | – | – |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | – | – |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | – | – |
| SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production | – | – |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | – | – |
| SDG 14: Life Below Water | – | – |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | – | – |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | – | – |
| SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | – | – |
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Source: press.un.org
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