World · Singapore Bureau
Nations urged to strengthen climate action ahead of COP31 summit
Countries must rapidly escalate their climate commitments to prevent global temperatures from exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius, according to a preparatory conference statement. The warning comes as nations prepare for the UN's COP31 summit, with experts emphasizing the need for urgent action to mitigate extreme weather impacts.
LSN Singapore ·
A regional climate conference in Fiji has issued a stark call for nations to dramatically increase their environmental commitments, warning that current pledges fall short of what is needed to limit catastrophic warming.
The statement, released following the preparatory gathering in Nadi, emphasizes that keeping global temperature rises within 1.5 degrees Celsius remains achievable but requires significantly accelerated action across all countries. The 1.5-degree threshold has been identified by climate scientists as critical to preventing the worst effects of climate change, including more frequent and intense extreme weather events.
The conference serves as a crucial stepping stone toward COP31, the upcoming UN climate summit where nations are expected to negotiate updated climate targets and commitments. Delegates highlighted that existing national pledges currently put the world on track for warming well beyond the internationally agreed limit, necessitating stronger policies and investment in renewable energy and emissions reduction.
The call comes amid growing evidence that climate impacts are already affecting communities across South and Southeast Asia, from rising sea levels threatening island nations to intensified monsoon seasons affecting agricultural productivity. Regional experts have warned that without immediate and substantial increases in climate action, vulnerable countries in the area will face disproportionate consequences.