HON. PHILIP PIERRE CALLED ON WORLD LEADERS TO MEET PROMISED CLIMATE FINANCE GOALS FOR MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION MEASURES.
Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Hon Philip J Pierre has challenged fellow world leaders to act decisively and save humanity. Hon Pierre made his remarks at a global climate conference held in Glasgow—the first since the five-year review of the historic Paris Accord in 2015. He cautioned that this decade may be our last chance to save the environment.
“Undeniably, certain changes, such as the sea-level rise and ocean acidification are already locked in, with dire consequences for SIDS and low-lying states,” he said. “But we know that 1.5 degrees Celsius is still within our reach. To achieve it, we must act, and act now. Countries must urgently bring forward new NDCs with 2030 targets consistent with the 1.5-degree temperature goal, supported by credible net zero-by-2050 long-term strategies. We must support wind, solar and other renewable energy investments.
“The power to turn things around lies in our collective hands. We must be focused and resolute. We cannot vacillate on matters of human survival.”
Prime Minister Pierre called on world leaders to deliver on the long-term climate finance goal that was promised in Paris for mitigation and adaptation. Some $100 billion was pledged but yet to be collected. Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister also made a firm case for the inclusion of all nations in combating climate change.”
“We must also raise the profile of, and mainstream loss and damage as a distinct pillar of climate action and support,” he said. “It is high time that we complete the Paris Rulebook. When we bring to fruition that vital work, we can strengthen accountability and enable the highest possible ambition while ensuring transparency and environmental integrity.
“We, in the developing world, are on the front lines, exposed. Our poor vulnerable citizens have limited ability to respond to climate change effects and so, their quality of life is significantly diminished. As responsible leaders, can we, in good conscience, sacrifice humanity for industry? Will we continue to ignore the science to gamble with the future of our youth, women, indigenous communities, the private sector, and NGOs? What are the prospects for nations like Taiwan, yet to be recognised, but also confronting climate change, while supporting SIDS?
The young people who will inherit this planet, are watching us. We cannot fail them. Let us not be that generation of leaders who had the last chance to set the world on track, but chose not to put people first.”
Prime Minister Hon. Philip J Pierre addressed the 26th Conference of Parties (COP 26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change on Nov. 2. COP 26 concludes Nov. 12.
