Albanese urges urgent climate action at COP31 as world exceeds Paris 1.5 degrees target amid rising emissions and energy costs
Anthony Albanese has admitted efforts to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees would likely fail, urging a switch to electrification to reduce emissions.
As a co-host of COP31 in Antalya, Turkey, Australia is recognised as a leader in climate action despite being a major fossil fuel exporter.
Global temperatures are expected to exceed the Paris Agreement goal of 1.5 degrees, prompting calls for urgent action to prevent further warming.
“In the critical decade ahead, every fraction of a degree of warming prevention counts,” said Albanese.
Climate urgency
Chris Bowen, COP31 President, explained Australia’s progress in solar and battery use as a worldwide electrification model.
Australia has doubled renewables generation in six years, with rooftop solar and batteries becoming widespread.
Albanese stressed governments must implement policies encouraging investment to further lower emissions.
Australian power prices are predicted to almost double by 2029 due to delays in renewable infrastructure development.
Pacific nations urge Australia and wealthy countries to speed up fossil fuel transition and offer more climate funding.
Albanese emphasised representing global needs including Pacific communities in the climate conversation.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged the 1.5-degree target would be missed but urged stronger action.
Despite the expected surpassing of the target, Guterres stressed the power to limit the overshoot remains.
Countries were encouraged to create exit plans from fossil fuels, with recent conflicts revealing their instability.
Australia committed to transitioning from fossil fuels at COP forums, facing pressure on coal stance amidst divisions.
