COP31 leaders try out new pitch: Do it for the economy
Leaders at the COP31 climate summit are shifting their messaging to frame climate action as an economic necessity rather than just an environmental goal. The strategy aims to address global inflation and energy insecurity caused by fossil fuel dependence.
Why it matters
By linking climate policy to cost-of-living and national security, leaders hope to gain broader political support for renewable energy transitions.
(Front row, from left) Simon Stiell, head of the UN’s climate office, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan with other leaders at the COP31 summit in Antalya, Turkey, on Nov 11.
Listen Summarise COP31 leaders are urging climate action as an economic plan, saying it can cut living costs, support jobs and strengthen security. UN chief Antonio Guterres said fossil fuel imports leave countries open to price shocks, while UN climate chief Simon Stiell warned energy chaos and climate disasters are driving inflation. Former US State secretary John Kerry and EU official Dan Jorgensen said the new message could win wider support, even from climate sceptics, by stressing security and stability. AI generated
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