U.N. climate chief has said that there are two years left to save the planet

Humanity has a limited window of just two years to take decisive action and enact significant changes to reduce heat-trapping emissions, according to the head of the United Nations climate agency. This urgent timeline also applies to securing the necessary finances for such a monumental shift.

With a 2025 deadline looming for governments to submit new and more robust plans to combat carbon pollution, and with nearly half of the world's population participating in elections this year, the upcoming global finance meetings in Washington are crucial, said Simon Stiell, the United Nations' executive climate secretary.

Speaking at the Chatham House think tank in London, Stiell acknowledged that his warning may sound alarmist but emphasized that swift action over the next two years is critical. He stressed that climate action is not solely the responsibility of powerful individuals, highlighting the need for action across all sectors of society.

Stiell pointed out that the increasing frequency of crop-destroying droughts underscores the need for more aggressive emissions reduction measures to help farmers adapt and ensure food security. He also emphasized the health and financial benefits of reducing fossil fuel pollution for both governments and households.

However, not everyone believes that such warnings will be effective. Princeton University climate scientist Michael Oppenheimer cautioned against "meaningless rhetoric," suggesting that it could be ignored or even counterproductive.

Last year saw record-high levels of carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere, with carbon dioxide emissions rising by 1.1%. Global temperature monitoring groups have concluded that 2023 was the hottest year on record by a significant margin.

Stiell highlighted the urgent need for increased climate finance, especially for poorer nations that are most affected by climate change. He called for debt relief for these countries, noting that they are currently spending $400 billion on debt financing instead of investing in climate change mitigation and adaptation.

The upcoming meetings of The World Bank and other major multinational development institutions will be crucial, with leaders from countries like Barbados and Kenya pushing for significant reforms in lending practices to better support nations affected by climate change-related disasters.