Climate Week NYC 2024 has kicked off with a powerful opening speech by Helen Clarkson, CEO of the Climate Group. Now in its 16th year, the event continues to play a crucial role in global climate action, serving as a platform for important discussions on how to tackle the worsening climate crisis.
This year’s theme, "It’s Time", highlights the urgency of acting decisively now, rather than deferring bold climate action to the future.
Clarkson outlined five essential principles that must guide our efforts:
1. It’s Time to Put People First
The transition to a clean energy future must be fair and inclusive. While investments in renewables have surged, the benefits must be shared widely, especially with communities most vulnerable to climate change but least responsible for causing it. Clarkson emphasised that the transition should upskill workers, create decent jobs, and ensure fair compensation where necessary, guaranteeing that no one is left behind.
2. It’s Time to Pay Up
Clarkson highlighted the Global North's responsibility to deliver long-overdue climate finance, helping vulnerable nations build resilience and adapt to the impacts of climate change. While no one is immune to extreme weather, wealthier nations and individuals are better equipped to recover. Climate finance can help bridge this gap, supporting innovation and protecting those at greatest risk.
3. It’s Time to Listen to Citizens
The demand for stronger climate action is clear—80% of people globally want their governments to do more, according to UNDP data. Despite misinformation campaigns and online debates suggesting otherwise, the public understands the urgency of the crisis. Clarkson urged leaders to harness this momentum and drive meaningful change.
4. It’s Time to Be Honest with Ourselves
Clarkson called for a reality check on the role of technology in solving the climate crisis. While innovation is exciting, relying on unproven solutions to solve the problem serves as a delaying tactic. The focus must be on practical, immediate actions, such as removing policy barriers to renewable energy deployment. The time for stalling is over.
5. It’s Time to Have the Difficult Discussions About Fossil Fuels
Fossil fuels must play a minimal role in the energy mix by 2050, yet many countries and companies are betting on being the last to sell oil. Clarkson called out the influence of the fossil fuel industry and stressed the need for governments to re-engineer our economies for a sustainable future.
The speech concluded with a hopeful yet urgent message. Whilst progress has been made over the last decade, from the rise of renewable energy to the passing of landmark policies, there is still much work to be done.
Climate Week NYC 2024 will introduce a Global To-Do list, outlining seven actionable steps for immediate progress. With COP29 on the horizon, it is critical that we act now—not next year—to ensure a sustainable future.
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