Special Address by the Secretary-General on the Global Response to the Climate and Energy Crises
On 23 June 2026, in a special address at London Climate Action Week, the UN Secretary-General draws on the latest scientific evidence to show how the worsening climate crisis and growing energy insecurity are rooted in continued fossil fuels dependence. He outlines a clear pathway to accelerate the transition to a more secure, resilient and sustainable energy future: one powered by renewable energy, strengthened international cooperation, and science-based action.
The Secretary-General highlights how renewable energy offers the clearest route to energy security, affordability and resilience, while underscoring the urgent need to strengthen adaptation efforts in a world already experiencing dangerous climate impacts. He also makes an urgent call to action to cut methane emissions — one of the fastest and most powerful drivers of global warming.
On 23 June 2026, the UN Secretary-General delivered a special address presenting the latest scientific evidence linking the climate crisis and growing energy insecurity to continued fossil fuel dependence, while outlining a path to a more secure and sustainable future powered by renewables. He also highlighted the environmental impact of AI energy use and call for urgent action to reduce methane emissions.
Spotlight: UN Secretary-General at London Climate Action Week
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The latest climate and environment coverage from UN News.
Initiatives for Action
Initiatives to accelerate a just transition that benefits all people everywhere.
Energy independence cannot be built on fossil fuel dependence. Renewables are the cornerstone of true energy security.
ANT?NIO GUTERRES, 91茄子 Secretary-General (23 June 2026)
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Methane: From Super Pollutant to Climate Solution
Cutting emissions from methane is one of the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective ways to tackle the climate crisis today.
If AI is to help build a better future, it must be honest and transparent about what it costs us now.
Earth System Tipping Points
Understanding Earth system tipping points is essential for managing the growing risks facing our planet.
Adapting to the impacts of climate change
Beyond doing everything we can to cut greenhouse gas emissions and slow the pace of global warming, we must adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change.
Local leaders driving change
Mayors, governors and other local leaders who are championing initiatives that make their communities more resilient and sustainable.
For information integrity
Brazil, UNESCO and the UN have joined forces to strengthen research to counter narratives that are delaying and derailing urgently needed climate action.