| New York, 15th September, 2023 The Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) urges world leaders convening at the upcoming 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to usher in a transformative new era of climate action. As record-breaking temperatures underscore the ever-increasing threat of climate change, it is imperative that we abandon the practice of kicking the can down the road. We must reach a strong resolution to safeguard a sustainable future for all. AOSIS commends the recent G20 commitment to triple renewable energy targets. However, it is disheartening to witness the lack of ambition on what truly ails us – emissions from fossil fuels. The fossil fuel industry enjoys exorbitant profits, but at what cost to the world’s vulnerable peoples? AOSIS has long called for industrialized nations to urgently phase out fossil fuel use. Fossil fuel use in the industrialized world is responsible for an estimated 92% of human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, leading to run-away climate change and resulting in disproportionately devastating impacts for vulnerable small island developing states (SIDS). AOSIS reiterates our call for the immediate phasing out of inefficient fossil fuel usage and inefficient subsidies, as outlined in our upcoming 2023 AOSIS Leaders Declaration. Additionally, we highlight the need for removal of artificial barriers to the growth of renewable energy for SIDS. SIDS need the necessary financial support to achieve a secure and just transition and adequate access to investment in renewables. The support of the international community is critical. In this spirit, AOSIS is pleased to announce the AOSIS Leaders Meeting on September 22nd. This gathering will bring together leaders from Small Island Developing States to discuss our collective priorities and formalize the new AOSIS Leaders Declaration. This declaration will outline our positions and articulate the support needed to advance progress on critical issues such as climate change, ocean conservation, access to finance for SIDS, the Fourth International Conference on SIDS, and a strong outcome at COP28. We implore the international community to use the platforms of the UNGA and New York Climate Week to signal unequivocal support for Small Island Developing States. Leaders – the time has come to truly stand united. Let us take action with genuine intention to uplift every person who inhabits our world. |
