Governments failing to transition to low-carbon economies will face both domestic and global consequences, UN climate chief Simon Stiell warned on Monday at the opening of the Cop30 climate summit. Addressing ministers and officials from nearly 200 countries, Stiell highlighted the economic and humanitarian costs of inaction, including rising inflation, stagnating growth, famine, and conflict.
Faltering governments will be blamed for famine and conflict abroad, and face stagnation and inflation at home, says climate chief at start of Cop30 https://t.co/BwJzNlK6V5
— Svein Tveitdal (@tveitdal) November 10, 2025
“Not one single nation among you can afford this,” Stiell said. “To falter whilst mega droughts wreck national harvests makes zero sense. When climate disasters decimate lives, this will never, ever be forgiven.”
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The two-week summit in Belém will focus on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, moving away from fossil fuels, and providing financial support to vulnerable countries. Temperatures have exceeded the 1.5°C threshold agreed in the 2015 Paris Agreement, and scientists warn that sustained overshoot could trigger irreversible climate tipping points.
Stiell emphasized that low-carbon energy, now cheaper than fossil fuels in 90% of the world, could create jobs and economic growth, while nations lagging behind may face economic stagnation. Discussions will also center on strengthening “nationally determined contributions” and ensuring rich countries deliver promised climate finance to developing nations.
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