Ministers from 40 countries convened on Wednesday at the 16th Petersberg Climate Dialogue (PCD) in Berlin, marking the first significant climate forum of 2025. The discussions centered on the achievements in renewable energy and the urgent need to tackle rising temperatures and climate change impacts as 2025 signifies a decade since the Paris Agreement.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a passionate address, emphasizing that 2025 is not only the deadline for countries to submit their updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) but also a pivotal point in the struggle to maintain the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. He urged every nation to take decisive action in light of increasing global instability and cuts to overseas aid.
Despite these challenges, Guterres highlighted a notable achievement: the year 2024 saw record levels of global renewable energy production, with renewables constituting over 92% of all new electricity capacity, equivalent to the energy capacity of major nations like Brazil and Japan combined. This growth included a nine percent increase in Europe, primarily driven by Germany, and nearly a seven percent increase in Africa. He asserted that “Renewables are renewing economies,” contributing to job creation, lower energy bills, and cleaner air.
Guterres noted the dramatic reductions in costs for renewable technologies, with wind power down by 60% and solar energy by 90% since 2010. Furthermore, clean energy significantly contributed to economic growth in 2023, accounting for a substantial share of GDP growth in countries such as India and the United States.
Yet, the Secretary-General warned that the climate challenges are escalating, with record-breaking temperatures being reached and the effects disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities, who are facing food insecurity and rising costs due to climate change.
Looking forward, Guterres stressed that meeting the long-term 1.5°C limit is still possible, but it requires urgent, cohesive action and leadership. The new NDCs, due by September 2025, must align with the goal of a 60% reduction in emissions by 2035 compared to 2019 levels. He described this as a critical opportunity for nations to craft a clear vision for a just green transition, requiring greater efforts particularly from the G20 nations, who are responsible for a significant share of emissions.
The UN Climate Promise is currently aiding 100 countries in their preparatory efforts, and Guterres called for the implementation of the COP29 finance agreement to ensure support for developing nations, alongside a push for increased adaptation finance.
In closing, Guterres urged global leaders to use this moment as a rallying point for action, reinforcing the notion that those who lag behind should not deter progress but inspire collective resolve. The conference serves as a beacon of hope for collaborative advancements in combating climate change, emphasizing that innovation and cooperation can lead to substantial, positive outcomes for the planet.
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