Brazilian President Lula urged G20 developed countries to advance their climate neutrality targets from 2050 to between 2040 and 2045 during the summit in Rio. He emphasized common but differentiated responsibilities in climate action, demanded accountability from wealthier nations for their historical emissions, and called for a collaborative approach to updating Nationally Determined Contributions to achieve the 1.5ºC temperature target. Lula noted Brazil’s progress in renewable energy and reducing deforestation, stressing the urgency for global commitment at COP30 in 2025.
At the G20 summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio da Silva urged developed nations to advance their climate neutrality goals from 2050 to as early as 2040 or 2045. Emphasizing the shared responsibility of all nations, he highlighted the principle of ‘common but differentiated responsibilities’ regarding climate justice, asserting that wealthier countries must acknowledge their historical contributions to greenhouse gas emissions. Lula underscored the urgency of taking actionable steps, given the ongoing climate crises manifesting as extreme weather patterns worldwide. Lula reiterated the failures of past agreements, including the Quito Protocol and the Paris Agreement, which have not generated the necessary results to avert catastrophe. He emphasized the significance of the G20 nations—accounting for 80% of global emissions—raising their ambition to meet the target of limiting global temperature increases to 1.5ºC. The Brazilian president presented Brazil’s commitment through its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which encompass all greenhouse gases and sectors of the economy. He highlighted the country’s clean energy sector, noting that 90% of Brazil’s electricity derives from renewable sources. Lula called attention to the critical issue of deforestation, stating that Brazil’s emissions reductions would significantly stem from halting deforestation, which he pledges will be eliminated by 2030. He also acknowledged the G20’s role in funding initiatives like the Tropical Forests Forever Fund, aimed at supporting countries in preserving natural forests. Lula warned, however, that conservation efforts would be futile without cohesive global collaboration to combat climate change. He expressed concern over misinformation surrounding climate issues and advocated for financial support from developed nations to assist developing countries in reversing environmental damage. Moreover, he addressed the necessity for the international community to act decisively before the upcoming COP30 conference in Belém, Brazil, which he proclaimed as a crucial opportunity to turn the tide on climate change.
The urgent need for increased climate action comes against the backdrop of intensifying global climate issues, including abnormal weather patterns such as floods, fires, and rising temperatures. Climate neutrality refers to balancing emitted greenhouse gases with measures to offset them, such as reforestation. As historical contributors to climate change, developed nations are expected to lead by example, demonstrating accountability for their contributions to global warming. The G20 summit serves as a pivotal platform for discussing shared responsibilities and the implementation of ambitious climate actions among the world’s leading economies, which together account for a significant majority of global greenhouse gas emissions.
In conclusion, President Lula’s appeals during the G20 summit underscore the pressing necessity for developed countries to enhance their climate commitments and adopt earlier climate neutrality targets. His emphasis on accountability, collaboration, and the critical role of financial support from wealthier nations is vital for effective global climate change mitigation. As Brazil sets a path towards cleaner energy and reduced deforestation, the international community’s responsiveness will be crucial in securing a sustainable future for all.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
