UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell urged immediate climate action at the current COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, highlighting that the upcoming Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are this century’s most important policy documents.

At an NDC Partnership event, Stiell highlighted countries’ climate challenges and emphasized the need for bold, transformative climate plans.

NDCs: The Last Line of Defense

Stiell called the upcoming NDCs “the final barricade” in the global fight against climate change, framing them as crucial. He pointed out that the effects of climate change are becoming more severe and that natural disasters might cost up to 5% of GDP in certain nations. The burden falls particularly heavily on people and businesses that pay the highest prices.

“Every economy is being besieged by climate disasters, ripping up to 5 percent off GDP in some countries.  And it’s people and businesses that are paying the heaviest price,” Stiell said. 

He emphasized agriculture’s difficulties, pointing out that COP29’s Agriculture Day indicated that climate impacts hurt food supply chains and drive up prices.

Also read: COP29 Deal Could Boost Carbon Market Participation, but Challenges Remain

The Clean Energy Boom

Despite the sobering reality of climate impacts, Stiell offered optimism, pointing out that the global renewable energy boom is expected to surpass two trillion dollars this year alone. He argued that the expanding clean energy industry provides economic advantages such as employment, growth, reduced pollution, and more affordable energy.

The UN climate chief cited G20 countries, including Brazil and the United Kingdom, who indicated in their next Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) that they intend to increase climate action. Stiell pointed out that the financial benefits of clean energy reduce climate risks and offer prospects for long-term growth.

A Call for Global Climate Equity

However, Stiell clarified that not all nations have equal access to these economic advantages. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all countries, particularly those most at risk from climate change, can create transformative NDCs. New national climate plans must cover all greenhouse gases and sectors, aligning with science to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

“Our job is to make them achievable for all,” Stiell stated, underscoring the importance of ensuring equity in global climate action.

Also read: UK Launches Principles for Voluntary Carbon Market Integrity at COP29 

The Role of the NDC Partnership

Stiell praised the NDC Partnership’s efforts to assist nations in creating and implementing their NDCs. He recognized the Partnership’s proficiency in attending to nations’ distinct requirements and organizing assistance where needed. 

At the UN Climate Change Secretariat, Stiell assured attendees that preparations are underway to support countries in the coming year. The Climate Plan Campaign mobilizes nations to strengthen their climate commitments.