Jakarta—UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell has called on nations to craft robust, high-quality national climate plans, or Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and ensure they align with economic and environmental goals. Speaking at the Instituto Rio Branco, Brazil’s diplomatic academy, on February 6, Stiell stressed the significance of these plans in unlocking the economic potential of climate action.
“So taking a bit more time to ensure these plans are first-rate makes sense, properly outlining how they will contribute to this effort and therefore what rewards they will reap,” Stiell stated, underscoring the need for nations to prioritise comprehensive planning over hasty submissions.
The call comes at a critical moment, as the world marks the tenth anniversary of the Paris Agreement. Stiell noted that global climate cooperation has prevented the worst-case scenario of 5°C warming, but current projections still show a dangerous 3°C rise. He stressed that well-structured NDCs are essential in accelerating climate action and securing economic growth.
The UN calls for countries to submit their plans on February 10, including new 2035 emissions reduction targets. Delays in submitting NDCs are common. In the previous NDC cycle, due in February 2020, only 48 countries had submitted by year-end, with most completing their submissions by COP26 in late 2021.
The UK, Brazil, the US, Switzerland, New Zealand, UAE, and Uruguay have submitted full plans, accounting for 16% of global emissions.
The economic imperative of climate action
Stiell framed climate action as a matter of self-interest rather than mere virtue-signaling. “In the great horserace of life, always back self-interest… what’s in it for me,” he quoted, illustrating how the shift toward clean energy is now primarily driven by economic opportunities.
He pointed out that in 2024 alone, USD 2 trillion was invested in clean energy and infrastructure—twice the amount invested in fossil fuels. Stiell argued that this financial momentum reflects investor confidence in renewable energy’s superior long-term profitability.
He noted that nations that seize this moment will benefit from stronger economic growth, job creation, and lower pollution levels. Countries like Brazil and the UK have already submitted ambitious new climate action plans, signalling their intent to capitalise on these opportunities.
Addressing disparities in climate finance
Despite the global push toward renewables, Stiell acknowledged that smaller economies are struggling to access the same level of investment as major players. He urged international financial reforms to enable all nations to participate fully in the climate transition, stressing the importance of the Baku to Belém Roadmap, which aims to mobilise USD 1.3 trillion in climate finance.
“If we could get finance right… the current boom could go from USD 2 trillion to many multiples of that, and fast,” he stated, calling for systemic changes to ensure equitable access to funding.
Stiell also reminded nations that their climate plans must be submitted by September for inclusion in the UN’s NDC Synthesis Report ahead of COP30 in Belém. This will provide a clearer picture of global progress and allow leaders to refine strategies for the crucial next decade.
He highlighted Brazil’s role in leading global climate efforts, particularly in protecting the Amazon rainforest and amplifying the voices of Indigenous communities. “Brazil’s deep experience and skill is cause for real confidence that this year will translate into the right series of real-world deals,” he stated.
As the world enters a pivotal decade for climate action, Stiell urged leaders to focus on implementation rather than rhetoric. He proposed a shift from symbolic commitments to concrete policy agreements that deliver tangible benefits for citizens.
“Every dollar invested in adaptation is worth six in loss and damage bills avoided,” he pointed out, reinforcing the economic logic behind proactive climate policies. (nsh)
Banner photo: Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC at the COP29 Opening Ceremony/screenshot of the UNFCCC YouTube channel
