Kofi Annan: ‘We must challenge climate-change sceptics who deny the facts’

(guardian-, 3 May 2015) The former secretary-general of the UN answers questions on climate change, the Paris summit set for later this year and how ordinary people can make a difference.

What’s your greatest fear for the future of our planet?

That the world is reaching the tipping point beyond which climate change may become irreversible. If this happens, we risk denying present and future generations the right to a healthy and sustainable planet – the whole of humanity stands to lose. On the other hand, climate change is an unprecedented opportunity for governments, investors, firms and citizens to work together to develop and deploy low-carbon technologies, which can sustain growth within our planetary boundaries. Shifting towards low-carbon energy systems can avert climate catastrophe while creating new opportunities for investment, growth and employment.

What would you like to see come out of the UN summit in Paris?

Governments have to conclude a fair, universal and binding climate agreement, by which every country commits to reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. We need equitable and effective policies, which ensure that the world’s richer countries support the aspirations of developing countries to follow a sustainable development path. For example, and as my fellow Elders and I have repeatedly stressed, a tax on carbon emissions can make an important contribution to the fight against global warming. Another key policy issue is clear and reliable climate finance: governments committed to mobilise $100bn a year by 2020 to help vulnerable countries adapt to climate change impacts and pursue green growth. The Paris summit must ensure that the promises are kept, because the only promises that matter are promises which are kept. Given that the Paris agreement will only come into force in 2020, we also have to make tangible progress on addressing climate change immediately and meeting adaptation needs.

External link

guardian-, 3 May 2015: Kofi Annan: ‘We must challenge climate-change sceptics who deny the facts’