
UN Secretary General António Guterres calls to “prepare enhanced national climate action plans”, or Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), “to reach net zero emissions by 2050”.
To combat the COVID-19 pandemic and the “looming existential threat of climate disruption”, the only credible response is “brave, visionary and collaborative leadership” anchored in mutilateralism, the UN Secretary General António Guterres, said on Tuesday, during an international discussion focused on climate change.
In planning the coronavirus pandemic recovery, there is “a profound opportunity” to steer the world on “a path that tackles climate change, protects the environment, reverses biodiversity loss and ensures the long-term health and security of humankind”, the Secretary-General said.
“By making the transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient growth, we can create a world that is clean, green, safe, just and more prosperous for all”, he emphasized.
As such, he proposed six different climate-related actions that countries can take, to shape the recovery:
1. Deliver new jobs and businesses through a green and just transition while accelerating the decarbonization of all aspects of the economy.
2. Use taxpayers’ money to create green jobs and inclusive growth when rescuing businesses.
3. Shift economies from grey to green, with using public financing that makes societies more resilient.
4. Invest public funds in the future, to projects that help the environment and climate.
5. Consider risks and opportunities for your own economy, as the global financial system works to shape policy and infrastructure.
6. Work together as an international community to combat COVID-19 and climate change.