Remarks by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the UN, at the World Leaders Climate Action Summit at COP29.

Addressing the World Leaders Climate Action Summit at COP29, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, “Unless emissions plummet and adaptation soars, every economy will face far greater fury.”

The two-day World Leaders Climate Action Summit at COP29 launched today bringing together some 100 national leaders.

Over the next two days, COP29 provides a platform for world leaders to raise ambition and translate climate pledges into concrete, real-economy outcomes.

At the opening of the Summit, Guterres said, “This is a story of avoidable injustice. The rich cause the problem, the poor pay the highest price. Oxfam finds the richest billionaires emit more carbon in an hour and a half than the average person does in a lifetime. Unless emissions plummet and adaptation soars, every economy will face far greater fury.”

He continued, “Last year – for the first time – the amount invested in grids and renewables overtook the amount spent on fossil fuels. Almost everywhere, solar and wind are the cheapest source of new electricity. Doubling down on fossil fuels is absurd. The clean energy revolution is here. No group, no business, and no government can stop it.”

He stressed, “But all countries must do their part. But the G20 must lead. They are the largest emitters, with the greatest capacities and responsibilities.”

He concluded, “Climate finance is not charity, it’s an investment. Climate action is not optional, it’s imperative. Both are indispensable: to a liveable world for all humanity. And a prosperous future for every nation on Earth. The clock is ticking, and I count on you.”