GENEVA, Switzerland – On Wednesday, ministers from 40 nations convened at the inaugural major climate forum of 2025, focusing on advancements in renewable energy production and the critical consequences of inaction in the face of escalating global temperatures.
The year 2025 signifies a pivotal moment: it marks the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement and serves as the deadline for countries to present their revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). These contributions are essential for striving towards the global goal of capping temperature rise at 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
During the 16th Petersberg Climate Dialogue (PCD) held in Berlin, the UN Secretary-General emphasized the urgent need for impactful climate action. He highlighted that the new year commenced amidst geopolitical uncertainties and significant cuts to international aid budgets.
“Given the prevailing uncertainty and instability globally, every nation must enhance its efforts,” he asserted.
Renewables: A Beacon of Hope
In the midst of global tensions, the Secretary-General pointed to a positive trend, noting that 2024 was a record year for global renewable energy production, as reported by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
Renewable energy accounted for over 92 percent of all new electricity capacity added last year, equivalent to the combined electricity capacity of Brazil and Japan. Europe saw a nine percent increase in capacity, with Germany contributing significantly to this growth, while Africa’s renewable capacity surged by nearly seven percent.
“This underscores a critical truth of the 21st century: renewables are revitalizing economies,” he stated, emphasizing their role in driving growth, creating jobs, lowering energy costs, and improving air quality.
The cost of wind power has plummeted by 60 percent since 2010, while solar energy has become 90 percent cheaper. Clean energy has played a crucial role in economic expansion in 2023, contributing five percent to India’s GDP growth, six percent to the US’s, and one-third of the EU’s total economic growth.
The Consequences of Inaction
However, the Secretary-General warned that climate challenges are mounting. “Records are being broken continuously – from the hottest day to the hottest month in the hottest year of the hottest decade,” he remarked.
The most affected individuals are those in vulnerable communities, facing rising food and insurance costs, displacement, and increasing insecurity. The World Meteorological Organization has confirmed that 2024 witnessed alarming climate records, as global temperatures exceeded pre-industrial levels by 1.5°C for the first time within a single year.
“Scientists contend that achieving the long-term 1.5-degree limit remains possible,” the Secretary-General stressed. “But this hinges on immediate action and robust leadership.”
A Call for Ambition
New NDCs are expected by September 2025, aligned with the 1.5°C target, and aiming for a collective 60 percent reduction in emissions by 2035 compared to 2019 levels. “This is an exceptional opportunity to implement a coherent vision for a just green transition,” he stated.
He reiterated the need for efforts grounded in the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, emphasizing that “everyone must increase their commitments.”
The world’s leading industrialized nations, particularly the G20, must spearhead these initiatives, as they are responsible for the majority of global emissions.
The UN Climate Promise is currently assisting 100 countries in preparing their subsequent plans, with a high-level event scheduled for September to evaluate progress and advocate for enhanced actions.
Financing for Action
Implementing the finance agreement from COP29 is vital for supporting developing nations. “I rely on the leadership of the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies to provide a credible plan to mobilize $1.3 trillion annually by 2035,” he stated.
He also urged for the doubling of adaptation finance to at least $40 billion per year by the end of this year and called for substantial contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund.
To achieve these goals, stronger collaboration among governments, societies, and sectors is essential.
Looking Ahead
As the Petersberg dialogue sets the stage for the upcoming year, the Secretary-General issued a compelling call to action: “Those who fall behind should not deter us but instead strengthen our resolve. The opportunities are ripe for those ready to guide the world through these challenging times.”
