Berset calls for swift action at UN climate conference
Published: Friday, Dec 1st 2023, 14:10
Updated At: Friday, Dec 1st 2023, 14:10
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In his speech, President Alain Berset described the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai as a "key moment". The conference will take stock of the progress made under the Paris Agreement.
It is the last moment to achieve the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees by the end of the century, Berset said on Friday, according to a statement from the Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA).
Because the scientific evidence is clear. "The report published this year by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) shows that the average temperature has already risen to 1.1 degrees compared to pre-industrial levels," said Berset in his speech.
This is "threatening our resources and affecting ecosystems". All over the world, people are dying because of extreme heat, infectious diseases are spreading faster and "millions of people are suffering from food insecurity and water shortages".
Quick action required
Without swift and coherent action by the international community, the situation will continue to deteriorate, said the Federal President. There is still a small chance of achieving the target of 1.5 degrees. "But this is only possible if all states are committed."
Switzerland therefore supports the goal of "tripling global renewable energy capacity by 2030 and doubling energy efficiency. At the same time, a clear commitment is needed to phase out coal by 2040 and fossil fuels by 2050, said Berset in his speech.
Switzerland itself is investing "more than CHF 3.2 billion to replace heating systems and promote climate-friendly business practices".
135 million for climate fund
Another topic on the agenda was the fund for loss and damage agreed at COP27. The states agreed on the main features of the fund. "This is intended to support the poorest countries in particular and those most affected by climate change," wrote the FDHA in the press release.
Switzerland welcomes the fact that the fund can begin its work quickly. However, it would have liked all countries with high emissions and the financial means to be asked to contribute.
Over the next four years, Switzerland will provide CHF 135 million for the Green Climate Fund and a further CHF 36 million in total for other funds and institutions.
Berset will also take part in discussions on climate financing and the launch of the G7 Climate Club as part of COP28 until (tomorrow) Saturday. Federal Councillor Albert Rösti, Head of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC), is expected to travel to Dubai on December 8.
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