Vanuatu’s Acting Director General (DG) and Head of Vanuatu’s Delegation at the COP29 Summit, Abraham Nasak, has expressed deep concern over the lack of progress in addressing climate change, particularly regarding elimination of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Speaking at the United Nations Framework of Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC), he emphasized the need for immediate action to combat the root causes of climate change and the rise of loss & damage which are critical for the survival of vulnerable nations like Vanuatu.
“These COPs have been going on for a very long time. We can negotiate as parties here, but it is clear, we cannot negotiate with climate change. Our children and youths are expecting us to do the right and needful, reverse and stop greenhouse gas emissions to rein in climate change,” Nasak said.
He highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that the first Global Stocktake (GST) in Dubai last year showed that the world is off track in meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement- a legal binding international treaty on climate change to limit global warming not exceeding 1.5°C . He called for ambitious measures, including tripling the renewable energy goal by 2030, phasing out fossil fuels, and mobilizing finance for adaptation, mitigation, and loss and damage. He stressed that keeping the global temperature rise below 1.5 degrees Celsius is non-negotiable.
The Acting DG pointed out the need for financial resources that are predictable, grant-based, and accessible to help address adaptation and loss and damage. He urged all governments to agree on a new international climate finance goal that meets the needs of developing countries.
Vanuatu also recognizes the critical connection between climate change and the ocean, which is vital to its identity and livelihood. Mr. Nasak expressed concern over the negative impacts of climate change on ocean ecosystems and fisheries, urging for more serious consideration of ocean-related issues in UNFCCC processes.
He concluded by stating that while negotiations may continue, the reality of climate change cannot be negotiated. He called on global leaders to take decisive action for the sake of future generations.
The COP29 conference is taking place in Azerbaijan and will conclude on November 22, 2024.
