Global warming ends — UN chief warns 'global boiling' era now a harsh reality

"Climate change is here. It is terrifying. And it is just the beginning," Guterres said, emphasising the urgent need for immediate climate action. He stressed that limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels is still possible but requires drastic and swift measures.

"The air is unbreathable, the heat is unbearable, and the level of fossil fuel profits and climate inaction is unacceptable. Leaders must lead. No more hesitancy, no more excuses, no more waiting for others to move first. There is simply no more time for that," Guterres urged politicians during a press conference.

The unprecedented heatwaves affecting vast regions of North America, Asia, Africa, and Europe are unequivocally caused by climate change, Guterres asserted. He underscored that humanity is to blame, and the rapid pace of change is devastating. Greenhouse gas emissions must be rapidly and globally reduced, and the transition to clean energy must be a priority for fossil fuel companies.

"We have seen some progress: a robust rollout of renewables, some positive steps from sectors such as shipping," Guterres acknowledged. "But none of this is going far enough or fast enough. No more greenwashing. No more deception."

In addition to reducing emissions, Guterres stressed the need for countries to invest in adaptation measures to protect their citizens from the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

"Extreme weather is becoming the new normal," he warned. "All countries must respond and protect their people from the searing heat, fatal floods, storms, drought, and raging fires that result."