Marape Calls for Urgent Action: Global Emitters Must Step Up to Combat Climate Change

Prime Minister James Marape recently addressed the 42nd meeting of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) in Port Moresby, celebrating its 15 years of service in the fight against climate change. He expressed gratitude to the GCF for its partnership with Papua New Guinea (PNG) and emphasized the importance of this gathering as the country approaches its 50th anniversary of independence.

Since gaining independence in 1975, PNG has transformed from an economy worth less than $2 billion to over $70 billion today. This journey, marked by resilience, highlights the nation’s commitment to sustainable development while preserving its lush natural environment and diverse cultures.

During recent talks in Nice, France, Prime Minister Marape discussed PNG’s efforts to protect marine biodiversity and combat illegal fishing. He engaged with leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, to enhance support for PNG’s climate initiatives.

Marape highlighted that Papua New Guinea’s forests, covering about 78% of the country’s land, are vital. They represent the world’s third-largest tropical forest, nurturing roughly 7% of global biodiversity. He recalled the vision of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, who advocated for incorporating rainforest preservation into international climate agreements, laying the groundwork for initiatives like REDD+ under the Paris Agreement.

PNG has played a significant role as a founding member of the Coalition for Rainforest Nations and was among the first to submit its pledges to the UNFCCC. The country has created strong governance frameworks, including a dedicated climate change office and a Climate Change Development Authority. These steps show PNG’s commitment to addressing climate change, particularly for its most vulnerable communities.

Unfortunately, PNG faces significant challenges. It ranks as the 18th most vulnerable nation to climate change yet receives the least climate finance per capita in the Pacific. Marape emphasized that the devastation of climate change is not due to PNG’s actions but results from global emissions beyond its control. He noted that communities are suffering from rising sea levels, declining fisheries, and extreme weather events.

Internationally, there is growing recognition of how small nations bear the brunt of climate change caused by larger emitters. According to a recent report by the Global Climate Finance Initiative, only 10% of climate financing effectively reaches the most affected countries, highlighting the urgent need for reform in climate finance systems.

Marape called for partnerships to streamline access to climate finance, noting that small island nations often struggle with complex project requirements. He urged for simplified processes, reduced approval times, and stronger support for local entities. He also stressed the importance of financing for forests and oceans, which are crucial to global health.

In closing, he expressed hope for productive discussions during the meeting and emphasized the need for ongoing collaboration in building national capacities and securing long-term climate finance. This cooperation is not just essential for PNG but critical for the global community as it navigates the climate crisis together.

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