World Behind on Devt Goals with Only 15% Success, Say UN SDGs Advocates

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Advocates yesterday at COP28, outlined what it termed important steps needed for a path that will achieve the goals and deliver climate justice.

The group noted that only 15 per cent of the SDG targets was on track , call on the negotiators here in Dubai to address the fundamental drivers of the social, environmental and economic injustices that aggravate the climate emergency.

“We are way behind with only 15 per cent of the targets on track. This alarm rings louder here at COP28 when we address our failure to secure life on our planet and in halting the crises that affects half of humanity.

“Unfortunately, the reality is that we, the peoples of this complex world, do not all have the same technological or financial capacities to face such impacts and rebuild our lives, livelihoods and economies after they have been impacted by extreme weather phenomena.

“We must resist the false assumption that all countries and people’s experiences are the same – and should respond to — climate change in the same way,” the group stated.

The group called on the negotiators in Dubai to address the fundamental drivers of the social, environmental and economic injustices that aggravate the climate emergency, and perpetuate the cycle of inequalities between peoples and nations.

“We began this COP by operationalising the global fund on loss and damage, with pledges of over $700 million to provide the most vulnerable with the resources they need to respond to the worst impacts of climate change.

“That’s a start, but there is much more to do in a world where climate damages are now several hundred billion dollars each year.”

“We must come together to build an international financial architecture that is fit for purpose. We call on the major economies, in the G20 and other fora, to help address the SDG financing gap,” the group said.

In light of the escalating impact of the climate crisis, the advocates stated the importance of early warning systems is evident.

“Warning people of upcoming storm, floods or droughts are not a luxury but a much-needed tool to save lives and protect livelihoods.

“Join us in the call for zero emissions, fossil fuels phase out, a global financial system fit for purpose, and climate justice for all. It is time for credible ambition and urgent action,” it added.