What warning did the UN climate chief give to governments?

The UN climate chief warned governments that they will be held accountable for failing to act on the climate crisis, as it will lead to devastating consequences like famines, conflicts, and economic decline.

What choice do leaders face at the Cop30 summit in Brazil?

Leaders at the Cop30 summit in Brazil face a choice between accelerating the transition to cheaper clean energy or locking in instability by opting out or taking baby steps.

How does the UN climate official describe the consequences of inaction on climate change?

The UN climate official stated that the world will not forgive governments for their failure to act, as climate disasters will rip double digits off GDP and force millions to flee their homelands, which "will never, ever be forgiven."

Home / Environment / UN Climate Chief Warns Governments: Act Now or Face Consequences

UN Climate Chief Warns Governments: Act Now or Face Consequences

11 Nov, 2025

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Summary

UN climate official warns governments of consequences for failing to act on climate crisis
Governments dragging feet on cutting fossil fuels will be blamed for famines, conflicts, and economic decline
Leaders face choice between accelerating clean energy switch or locking in instability

UN Climate Chief Warns Governments: Act Now or Face Consequences

As negotiations opened at the Cop30 climate summit in Belém, Brazil, on November 11, 2025, the UN's top climate official delivered a stark warning to world leaders. Simon Stiell, the executive secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), told ministers from nearly 200 countries that governments dragging their feet on cutting fossil fuel use would be held accountable for the devastating impacts of climate change.