United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday urged the international community to take “drastic action” to address the existential threats posed by sea-level rise. Speaking at a high-level meeting, Guterres emphasized the urgent need for global collaboration to mitigate the impacts of rising seas on vulnerable coastal communities.
“Sea-level rise is accelerating at an alarming rate, endangering coastal cities and small island nations,” Guterres said. “Without immediate action, we risk irreversible catastrophe for billions of people worldwide.”
The Secretary-General highlighted that many of Asia’s major cities, including Bangkok, Mumbai, and Jakarta, are among those most at risk. Rising sea levels threaten to displace millions, disrupt economies, and exacerbate social inequalities across the region.
Guterres called for comprehensive strategies that include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, investing in resilient infrastructure, and supporting adaptation efforts in developing countries. “We must unite in our efforts to combat climate change and protect our shared future,” he urged.
His appeal comes as recent studies show that sea levels could rise by more than a meter by the end of the century if current trends continue. Such an increase would have profound implications for coastal regions in Asia and around the world.
The Secretary-General’s remarks aim to galvanize global leaders ahead of upcoming international climate negotiations. “The window for action is closing,” Guterres warned. “Now is the time for bold, transformative change.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
