Lula Urges G20 Nations to Accelerate Climate Neutrality Targets
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio da Silva urged G20 developed countries to advance their climate neutrality targets from 2050 to 2040 or 2045 during the recent summit in Rio de Janeiro. He stressed the historical responsibilities of developed nations in climate action and emphasized the need for a global commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly as Brazil presents a new approach to its Nationally Determined Contributions.
During a recent G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio da Silva advocated for developed nations to advance their climate neutrality targets from 2050 to as early as 2040 or 2045. Emphasizing the need for collective action, he asserted, “Even if we’re not moving at the same speed, we can all take a step forward.” Concern about climate change is a focal point for Brazil’s presidency of the G20. Lula underscored the importance of historical accountability, stating, “Without assuming their historical responsibilities, rich nations will have no credibility to demand ambition from others.” He highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that the planet is experiencing extreme weather phenomena and underscoring that previous climate agreements have fallen short of expectations. As G20 countries are responsible for 80% of greenhouse gas emissions, Lula called for a new Task Force to enhance global mobilization against climate change, advocating for the next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to align with the goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. He also discussed Brazil’s commitment to reducing emissions, primarily through deforestation reduction, which has already declined by 45% over the past two years. Additionally, Lula reinforced the importance of recognizing indigenous contributions to conservation efforts and expressed gratitude to the G20 for their role in creating funds to support forest preservation. He warned, however, that these initiatives would be ineffectual unless the global community contributes to mitigating climate change, particularly in protecting the Amazon rainforest. On the topic of misinformation regarding climate change, Lula noted that Brazil collaborates with the UN and UNESCO on initiatives to ensure information integrity. He reiterated the necessity for developed countries to provide financial support to developing nations to combat climate change. Lula remarked, “No ambition can be sustained without the means to implement it,” criticizing the lack of fulfillment regarding past financial commitments. Looking ahead to COP30, which will take place in Belém, Brazil, in 2025, Lula heralded it as a critical moment for global collaboration. He proposed the establishment of a united Climate Change Council within the UN to streamline efforts across different sectors. Ultimately, Lula concluded by stating, “Hope is reborn with every commitment and act of courage in defense of life and the preservation of the conditions in which it was given to us.”
The recent statements made by President Luiz Inácio da Silva during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro reflect Brazil’s commitment to international climate action and its quest for equity in global climate discussions. The G20, comprising the world’s largest economies, plays a pivotal role in greenhouse gas emissions, thereby making the collective efforts of its members crucial in tackling climate change. Brazil, under Lula’s leadership, advocates for the principles of climate justice, acknowledging the historical contributions of developed countries to environmental degradation while urging them to take accountability.
In conclusion, President Lula’s urgent call for G20 nations to recommit to ambitious climate targets seeks to address the pressing nature of climate change. He emphasizes the necessity for accountability from developed nations and the importance of strengthening international collaborations to meet climate goals. Lula’s vision for a cohesive approach to global warming underscores the need for immediate and substantial action to mitigate environmental threats and preserve global ecosystems.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
