United Nations in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Malaysia:

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Publication

10 January 2023

Laporan Pencapaian Negara PBB di Malaysia, Singapura dan Brunei Darussalam 2021

Ini merupakan hasil laporan pencapaian yang kedua untuk Pasukan Negara Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu (UNCT) di Malaysia dan pertama kali meliputi Brunei Darussalam dan Singapura. Ia menumpukan pelaporan mengenai kerja dan hasil daripada 21 agensi PBB, 8 residen dan 13 bukan residen dengan aktiviti programatik di Malaysia. Sepanjang 2021, PBB terus menyokong Malaysia untuk menangani COVID-19 dan hasilnya, membantu menamatkan pandemik, mempromosi pemulihan sosial dan ekonomi serta mempercepatkan tindakan iklim. Seperti yang dijelaskan dalam laporan ini, sokongan PBB diberikan dalam Pelbagai bentuk – daripada bantuan teknikal dan nasihat polisi, kepada intervensi bersasar dan bantuan langsung kepada golongan rentan yang utama.

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Story

27 March 2023

Meeting the highest standards

Read the original article here Ainaa Kamila Rosli is a senior assistant director in the accreditation division of the Department of Standards Malaysia (DSM). Her division focuses on development and maintenance of new schemes and programs under the scheme accreditation and certification bodies. Malaysia’s Department of Standards will re-evaluate existing schemes every five years and is keeping abreast with international schemes to ensure Malaysia’s ISO standards for all industries are up to par with the rest of the world so that the international standards on quality management and quality assurance are met. “I look for new schemes of program, evaluate and update the existing schemes. The reason for this is to upgrade the competency of auditors and Malaysia’s companies,” Ainaa says. She believes that Malaysia could benefit from improving its standards related to Green House Gases (GHG) so that the country could catch up on pricing carbon border adjustment mechanism after standardization. As the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) is looking into carbon border adjustment mechanism to set the carbon price in Malaysia, together with DSM , it began working with the European Union funded ARISE Plus Malaysia project to support the verification and validation process of standards related to GHG, aligned with the EU Green Deal. Recognizing the implementation process in the country as one of the biggest challenges for DSM, Ainaa worked out three different phases with the project to help expand Malaysia’s GHG landscape. Together with the project, Ainaa organized three phases of trainings. The first series of training was instrumental in creating awareness and stimulating engagement amongst regulators, relevant ministries and agencies that involved with matters related to GHG. “We wanted to know if relevant parties were aware of DSM involvement in GHG standards. We invited government linked companies such as Bursa, as they have new initiative on trading carbon exchange market in Malaysia,” Alina says explaining the benefits of the training. About 40 participants attended the 2nd workshop that provided technical training on the main standards used by verification and validation bodies for GHG. Alina was thrilled by the feedback of the participants. “All wanted to be certified on the standards in Malaysia as it is one of the important aspects of assessing the competency of every verification and validation personnel. Participants will be considered qualified auditors after our training.” The objective of phase 3 is to accredit the first verification and validation body by this year. “By doing so, Malaysia will be one step closer to have their own GHG standards,” Alina notes. About the project
The ARISE Plus Malaysia project supports inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the country through enhancing sustainable business and investment environments, improving product quality and competitiveness, as well as enhancing sustainable and internationally quality-compliant practices in the agri-food sector. The three-year project is funded by the European Union and is a part of its national and regional ARISE Plus projects to support greater connectivity and economic integration in ASEAN. The project is implemented in partnership with the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.

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Story

27 March 2023

New agenda sets sail with bold action as UN Water Conference closes

Read the original article on UN News here The Agenda sets out a series of action-oriented game changing commitments, from making smarter food choices to re-evaluating water as a powerful economic driver, and part of the Earth’s cultural heritage. Tweet URL Water-secure future for all The conference, and its 2,000 participants, forged an “ambitious vision”, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres said. “Your dedication to action and transformation is propelling us towards a sustainable, equitable and inclusive water-secure future for people and planet alike,” he said. “This conference demonstrated a central truth: as humanity’s most precious global common good, water unites us all, and it flows across a number of global challenges.” From protecting the spread of disease to fighting poverty, the natural resource also flows through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at a time when the world is grappling with climate change, water scarcity, and pollution. “That’s why water needs to be at the centre of the global political agenda,” he said. “All of humanity’s hopes for the future depend, in some way, on charting a new science-based course to bring the Water Action Agenda to life.” Doing so translates into such forward-looking actions as developing new, alternative food systems to reduce the unsustainable use of water in agriculture, while launching a new global information system to guide plans and priorities to realize the SDGs. New considerations include appointing a Special Envoy for water ahead of the SDG Summit in September, he said. Water Action Agenda is ‘just the beginning’ Lending multiple perspectives and expertise to navigate the challenges ahead, more than 2,000 government representatives, scientists, academics, civil society groups, indigenous peoples, members of the private sector, and youth delegates attended the conference, held at UN Headquarters 22 to 24 March. Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, said Water Action Agenda commitments cover a wide range of actions, from capacity-building to data and monitoring systems, to improving the resilience of infrastructure. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “The online platform hosting the Water Action Agenda will remain open for submissions and available for all to view through the Conference website.” Another key outcome of the conference will be a summary by the UN General Assembly President, capturing the many ideas, recommendations, and solutions to protect and support “our world’s lifeblood” that emerged during five interactive dialogues, four special events and hundreds of side events, he said. “At the 2023 UN Water Conference, a determined global community came together to make a difference not only for the future of water but for the future of the world,” he said. ‘A page of history’ General Assembly President Csaba Kőrösi said the $300 billion in pledges made to buoy the transformative Water Action Agenda has the potential of unlocking at least $1 trillion of socioeconomic and eco-system gains. “The outcome of this conference is not a legally binding document, but it still turns the page of history,” he said, in closing remarks. “You have reconfirmed the promise to implement the human right to water and sanitation for all.” That means reaching the millions who are not even aware of this conference, he said. “We will keep our ears and minds open to scientific evidence as we move forward to realize the transformation discussed,” he said. Civil society and the private sector are at the heart of this transformation and “key to our success” he said, adding that they must be part of more inclusive partnerships and solutions. “Today, we hold the pieces of a water-secure and more peaceful world in our hands,” he said. “Together, we can launch the transformation for a water-secure world, and these gamechangers can take us there.” ‘Our common future’ The Secretary-General pledged UN support “every step of the way”, as Member States take action through the second half of the Water Action Decade. “Without water, there can be no sustainable development,” Mr. Guterres said, thanking all stakeholders. “As we leave this historic conference, let’s re-commit to our common future. Let’s take the next steps in our journey to a water-secure future for all.” How can you help? Here’s a sampling from the UN’s #WaterAction guide: 💧 Turn off those appliances, computers and other tech, when you’re not using them. Currently, 90 per cent of power generation is water intensive. Turning off devices when they are not in use means less energy needs to be produced.  💧 Build up a head of steam over the issue. Write to elected representatives about budgets for improving water conservation at home and abroad. 💧 Create an action list. Choose and share what you are going to do to help solve the water and sanitation crisis, right here. 💧 Get informed. Explore the water and sanitation crisis, read inspirational stories from around the world, read a book from the suggested SDG Book Club list, and follow your local news on water supply issues and check out SDG 6 online or on social media at @GlobalGoalUN. 💧 Use your social media voice. Amplify messages promoting SDG 6, participate in #WorldWaterDay to generate debate and raise awareness, available here. www.worldwaterday.org/share 💧 Shop sustainably. The 10,000 litres of water used to produce a pair of jeans is the same amount the average person drinks in a decade.

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23 March 2023

UN Conference seeks solutions to global water crisis

The three-day event - co-hosted by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Tajikistan - falls at the halfway point for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include the promise of ensuring all people have access to safe water and sanitation by 2030. ‘Draining humanity’s lifeblood’ UN Secretary-General António Guterres underscored that water is a human right and critical to development that will shape a better global future. “But water is in deep trouble”, he warned. “We are draining humanity’s lifeblood through vampiric overconsumption and unsustainable use, and evaporating it through global heating. We’ve broken the water cycle, destroyed ecosystems and contaminated groundwater.” A global crisis The UN chief noted that nearly three out of four natural disasters are linked to water, and a quarter of the planet lives without safely managed water services or clean drinking water. Furthermore, 1.7 billion people lack basic sanitation, half a billion people practice open defecation, and millions of girls spend hours each day just to fetch water. Leaders attending the conference are being challenged to find game-changing solutions to the global water crisis, characterized by ‘too much water’ – for example, storms and floods; ‘too little water’, such as droughts and groundwater scarcity, and ‘too dirty water’, such as polluted sources for drinking. “This conference must represent a quantum leap in the capacity of Member States and the international community to recognize and act upon the vital importance of water to our world’s sustainability and as a tool to foster peace and international co-operation,” the Secretary-General said. Close gaps, increase investments Mr. Guterres called for action in four key areas, starting with closing what he called “the water management gap”. He said governments must develop and implement plans that ensure equitable water access for all people while also promoting water conservation, and they must work together to jointly manage this precious resource. His second point, on the need for massive investment in water and sanitation systems, highlighted the proposed SDG Stimulus Plan and reforms to the global financial architecture aimed at ramping up investment in sustainable development. “International financial institutions should develop creative ways to extend financing and accelerate the re-allocation of Special Drawing Rights. And Multilateral Development Banks should continue expanding their portfolios on water and sanitation to support countries in desperate need,” he said. Increase investment His third point focused on resilience because “we cannot manage this 21st century emergency with infrastructure from another age.” Mr. Guterres called for investment in disaster-resilient pipelines, water-delivery infrastructure, and wastewater treatment plants, and in new ways to recycle and conserve water. The international community will also need climate and biodiversity-smart food systems that reduce methane emissions and water use, and a new global information system to forecast water needs in real time. Investment also means ensuring every person worldwide is covered by early warning systems against climate or weather disasters, as well as exploring new public-private partnerships. Address climate change The Secretary-General also called for addressing climate change, his final point. “Climate action and a sustainable water future are two sides of the same coin,” he said. He urged countries to “spare no effort” to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and deliver climate justice to developing countries. Mr. Guterres recalled his proposal to the G20 most-industralised nations to establish a Climate Solidarity Pact in which all big emitters make extra efforts to cut emissions. Wealthier countries would also mobilize financial and technical resources to support emerging economies.   ‘A watershed moment’ In his remarks, UN General Assembly President Csaba Kőrösi noted that the international community is now at “a watershed moment”. “We know that we cannot fulfil our promise of sustainability, economic stability and global wellbeing by speeding up conventional solutions,” he said. “We neither have enough time nor planet. There is simply not enough fresh water left anymore.” 'A global common good' Mr. Kőrösi said the international community must acknowledge that water is "a global common good and adjust policy, legislation, and financing accordingly,” urging countries “to work in favour of people and planet, not procrastination and profit.” He called for integrated land-use, water and climate policies, which would make water “a lever of climate mitigation and adaptation”, which will also build resilience, for both people and nature, and address growing hunger worldwide. “We can work together to empower states and stakeholders through the global water information system that is our life insurance for resolving the dilemma of water availability, demand and storage,” he said. Mr. Kőrösi stressed that the conference was “not a venue to negotiate positions, advantages, and compromise”, and urged leaders “to deliberate solutions that are science based, sustainable, pragmatic and in solidarity.” At the start of the conference, the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, and King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, were elected presidents of the event. Meet international expectations President Rahmon said the conference was truly historic – both for promoting clear understanding of the serious challenges the water crisis poses and in exploring effective solutions to address it. “In this regard, we need to make joint efforts to achieve specific results and follow up the agreement reached with a view to decently meeting the expectations of the international community,” he said, speaking through an interpreter. He also spoke of how Tajikistan possesses abundant sources of drinking water, which are being threatened by climate change. Thousands of glaciers have completed melted in recent decades. Preserve water resources He proposed establishing specific national, regional and international programmes for the preservation and effective use of all water sources. “Pursuing this initiative is indeed consistent with our commitments in the implementation of the global climate agenda and requires fruitful cooperation with all partners,” he said. “Accordingly, reliable modern mechanisms for water supply and effective management of water related issues should be developed and implemented.” The President also proposed holding the next UN Water Conference in Tajikistan in 2028. Strong stakeholder support King Willem-Alexander said although his low-lying coastal country, which includes several islands in the Caribbean, and mountainous landlocked Tajikistan “may seem like an odd couple”, together they represent “virtually the whole world of water.” He was encouraged that so many UN Member States are attending the conference, along with stakeholders from entities such as companies, towns, indigenous groups, women’s organizations and scientific institutes. “I'm also happy to see that the younger generation is highly motivated and ready to help find solutions,” he added. “But as they themselves have said, we can't leave all the problem solving up to them. It is our responsibility to do everything we can.” Find common ground The Dutch king offered a tip to participants, urging them to “seek out the company of those who are outside your fields.” For example, diplomats should meet with engineers, while a civil society representative should have coffee with someone working in finance. “If you're over 50, have a talk with someone younger. And if you live in Europe, turn your attention to Africa or Asia, or vice versa,” he advised. “Follow the example of the Republic of Tajikistan and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. See collaboration in the murky waters of contrasts. Water is our common ground. There's so much to discover and achieve.”

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Story

23 March 2023

5 things you should know about the UN 2023 Water Conference

Water is at the core of sustainable development. It supports all aspects of life on Earth, and access to safe and clean water is a basic human right. However, decades of mismanagement and misuse have intensified water stress, threatening the many aspects of life that depend on this crucial resource. 1. We are facing a global water crisis Water is essential for human well-being, energy and food production, healthy ecosystems, gender equality, poverty reduction and more. But we are currently facing a global water crisis. Billions of people around the world still lack access to water. It is estimated that more than 800,000 people die each year from diseases directly attributed to unsafe water, inadequate sanitation, and poor hygiene practices. Demands for this precious resource continue to rise: about four billion people experience severe water scarcity for at least one month of the year. With water being so crucial to many aspects of life, it is important to ensure its protection and proper management to ensure that everyone has equitable access to this essential resource by 2030. 2. Water and climate are inextricably linked From increasing floods, unpredictable rain fall, and droughts, the impacts of climate change on water can be seen and felt at an accelerating rate. These impacts threaten sustainable development, biodiversity, and people’s access to water and sanitation. According to the latest State of the Climate Services on Water report by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), water-related hazards have increased by an alarming rate. Since 2000, floods have increased by 134 per cent with the duration of droughts increasing by 29 per cent. But water can also be a key solution to climate change. Carbon storage can be improved by protecting environments like peatlands and wetlands, adopting sustainable agricultural practices can help reduce stress on freshwater supplies, and improving water supply and sanitation infrastructures can ensure that everyone has access to vital resources in the future. Water must be at the centre of climate policies and action. Sustainable water management can help build resilience, mitigate impacts of climate change, and protect societies and ecosystems. Sustainable, affordable, and scalable water solutions must become a priority. 3. Four decades on, bold new commitments are on the table The UN 2023 Water Conference will be a crucial moment to decide on concerted action to “take action and address the broad challenges surrounding water,” in the words of Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) and the Secretary-General of the event. The Conference will bring Heads of State and Government, Ministers, and stakeholders across all different sectors together achieve internationally agreed goals, including Sustainable Development Goal 6 of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for a fairer future; ensuring access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene for all. One of the main outcomes of the Conference will be the Water Action Agenda that will capture all water-related voluntary commitments and follow on their progress. The Agenda aims to encourage Member States, stakeholders, and the private sector to commit to urgent actions to address today’s water challenges. 4. Focus on five key areas The Conference will feature five “interactive dialogues” to strengthen and accelerate action for key water areas. The interactive dialogues also support the five principles of the SDG 6 Global Acceleration Framework, an initiative to deliver fast results towards ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2030. The five interactive dialogues are: Water for Health: Access to safe drinking water, hygiene, and sanitation. Water for Sustainable Development: Valuing Water, Water-Energy-Food Nexus and Sustainable Economic and Urban Development. Water for Climate, Resilience and Environment: Source to Sea, Biodiversity, Climate, Resilience and Disaster Risk Reduction. Water for Cooperation: Transboundary and International Water Cooperation, Cross Sectoral Cooperation and Water Across the 2030 Agenda. Water Action Decade: Accelerating the implementation of the objectives of the Decade, including through the UN Secretary-General’s Action Plan. Take a closer look at each of the interactive dialogues here. 5. How can you get involved? Water is a critical issue that affects everyone. As UN Member States, governments and stakeholders prepare to make their own water commitments, the UN is calling on everyone to take their own action. Any action – whether small or big – can help accelerate change and action towards achieving the goals and targets of SDG 6. Here are some simple actions that can be incorporated into daily routines: Take shorter showers and reduce your water waste in your home. With 44 per cent of household wastewater not being safely treated, taking shorter showers is a terrific way to save this precious resource. Lazy Person’s Guide to Saving Water Participate in clean-ups of local rivers, lakes, or wetlands. Plant a tree or create your own water garden. These actions can help protect water ecosystems from pollution and reduce the risk of flooding and store water efficiently. Raise awareness on the critical connection between toilets, sanitation, and menstruation. Break taboos by starting conversations in your local community, school, or workplace. Learn more about the goals and targets of SDG 6 and continue to advocate for solutions at the local and national level. Support water-related campaigns and find out other ways you can incorporate simple actions that can help protect water resources.

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13 March 2023

UN 2023 Water Conference

Visit the UN 2023 Water Conference website here Water is a dealmaker for the Sustainable Development Goals, and for the health and prosperity of people and planet. But our progress on water related goals and targets remains alarmingly off track, jeopardizing the entire sustainable development agenda. The UN 2023 Water Conference in March must result in a bold Water Action Agenda that gives our world's lifeblood the commitment it deserves. António guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations About the conference Water is a fundamental part of all aspects of life. Water is inextricably linked to the three pillars of sustainable development, and it integrates social, cultural, economic and political values. It is crosscutting and supports the achievement of many SDGs through close linkages with climate, energy, cities, the environment, food security, poverty, gender equality and health, amongst others. With climate change profoundly affecting our economies, societies and environment, water is indeed the biggest deal breaker to achieve the internationally agreed water-related goals and targets, including those contained in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Conference, co-hosted by the Governments of Tajikistan and the Netherlands, will feature an opening and closing ceremony, six plenary meetings and five multi-stakeholder interactive dialogues. It will also feature a number of high-level special events and side events organized by Member States, the UN system and other stakeholders. Programme at a glance (PDF) > The outcome of the Conference will be a summary of the Conference proceedings and new commitments, pledges and actions by Governments and all stakeholders towards achieving SDG 6 and other water-related goals and targets, compiled in the Water Action Agenda. The UN 2023 Water Conference and the Water Action Agenda will unite the world for water. The key building blocks of the Water Action Agenda are: commitment to action sustained and scalable implementation follow-up and review processes These blocks will enable replication and scaling up of what works and bring successful solutions to global scale.

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Press Release

21 March 2023

IPCC Synthesis Report: Urgent climate action can secure a liveable future for all

Visit the AR6 Synthesis Report Climate Change 2023 microsite here for all materials There are multiple, feasible and effective options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to human-caused climate change, and they are available now, said scientists in the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report released today. “Mainstreaming effective and equitable climate action will not only reduce losses and damages for nature and people, it will also provide wider benefits,” said IPCC Chair Hoesung Lee. “This Synthesis Report underscores the urgency of taking more ambitious action and shows that, if we act now, we can still secure a liveable sustainable future for all.” In 2018, IPCC highlighted the unprecedented scale of the challenge required to keep warming to 1.5°C. Five years later, that challenge has become even greater due to a continued increase in greenhouse gas emissions. The pace and scale of what has been done so far, and current plans, are insufficient to tackle climate change. More than a century of burning fossil fuels as well as unequal and unsustainable energy and land use has led to global warming of 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels. This has resulted in more frequent and more intense extreme weather events that have caused increasingly dangerous impacts on nature and people in every region of the world. Every increment of warming results in rapidly escalating hazards. More intense heatwaves, heavier rainfall and other weather extremes further increase risks for human health and ecosystems. In every region, people are dying from extreme heat. Climate-driven food and water insecurity is expected to increase with increased warming. When the risks combine with other adverse events, such as pandemics or conflicts, they become even more difficult to manage. Losses and damages in sharp focus The report, approved during a week-long session in Interlaken, brings in to sharp focus the losses and damages we are already experiencing and will continue into the future, hitting the most vulnerable people and ecosystems especially hard. Taking the right action now could result in the transformational change essential for a sustainable, equitable world. “Climate justice is crucial because those who have contributed least to climate change are being disproportionately affected,” said Aditi Mukherji, one of the 93 authors of this Synthesis Report, the closing chapter of the Panel’s sixth assessment. “Almost half of the world’s population lives in regions that are highly vulnerable to climate change. In the last decade, deaths from floods, droughts and storms were 15 times higher in highly vulnerable regions,“ she added. In this decade, accelerated action to adapt to climate change is essential to close the gap between existing adaptation and what is needed. Meanwhile, keeping warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels requires deep, rapid and sustained greenhouse gas emissions reductions in all sectors. Emissions should be decreasing by now and will need to be cut by almost half by 2030, if warming is to be limited to 1.5°C. Clear way ahead The solution lies in climate resilient development. This involves integrating measures to adapt to climate change with actions to reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions in ways that provide wider benefits. For example: access to clean energy and technologies improves health, especially for women and children; low-carbon electrification, walking, cycling and public transport enhance air quality, improve health, employment opportunities and deliver equity. The economic benefits for people’s health from air quality improvements alone would be roughly the same, or possibly even larger than the costs of reducing or avoiding emissions. Climate resilient development becomes progressively more challenging with every increment of warming. This is why the choices made in the next few years will play a critical role in deciding our future and that of generations to come. To be effective, these choices need to be rooted in our diverse values, worldviews and knowledges, including scientific knowledge, Indigenous Knowledge and local knowledge. This approach will facilitate climate resilient development and allow locally appropriate, socially acceptable solutions. “The greatest gains in wellbeing could come from prioritizing climate risk reduction for low-income and marginalised communities, including people living in informal settlements,” said Christopher Trisos, one of the report’s authors. “Accelerated climate action will only come about if there is a many-fold increase in finance. Insufficient and misaligned finance is holding back progress.” Enabling sustainable development There is sufficient global capital to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions if existing barriers are reduced. Increasing finance to climate investments is important to achieve global climate goals.Governments, through public funding and clear signals to investors, are key in reducing these barriers. Investors, central banks and financial regulators can also play their part. There are tried and tested policy measures that can work to achieve deep emissions reductions and climate resilience if they are scaled up and applied more widely. Political commitment, coordinated policies, international cooperation, ecosystem stewardship and inclusive governance are all important for effective and equitable climate action. If technology, know-how and suitable policy measures are shared, and adequate finance is made available now, every community can reduce or avoid carbon-intensive consumption. At the same time, with significant investment in adaptation, we can avert rising risks, especially for vulnerable groups and regions. Climate, ecosystems and society are interconnected. Effective and equitable conservation of approximately 30-50% of the Earth’s land, freshwater and ocean will help ensure a healthy planet. Urban areas offer a global scale opportunity for ambitious climate action that contributes to sustainable development. Changes in the food sector, electricity, transport, industry, buildings and land-use can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, they can make it easier for people to lead low-carbon lifestyles, which will also improve health and wellbeing. A better understanding of the consequences of overconsumption can help people make more informed choices. “Transformational changes are more likely to succeed where there is trust, where everyone works together to prioritise risk reduction, and where benefits and burdens are shared equitably,” Lee said. “We live in a diverse world in which everyone has different responsibilities and different opportunities to bring about change. Some can do a lot while others will need support to help them manage the change.”
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Temperature-Scale Equivalents
1.1C = 2.0F
1.5C = 2.7F
For more information, please contact:
IPCC Press Office: ipcc-media@wmo.int
Lance Ignon, SYR Communications Specialist: ignon@ipcc-syr.org AR6 Synthesis Report in Numbers
Review comments: 6841
Governments: 47 (21 Developed, 2 Economies in transition, 22 Developing, 2 SIDS)
Government Comments: 6636 (1814 Figures, 4822 Text)
Observers: 5
Observer Comments: 205
Core Writing Team members: 49
Review Editors: 9
Extended Writing Team Authors: 7
Contributing Authors: 28
Women: 41
Men: 52
Developing Country Authors: 37
Developed Country Authors: 56 About the IPCC
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change. It was established by the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1988 to provide political leaders with periodic scientific assessments about climate change. The IPCC has 195 member states that are members of the UN or WMO. Thousands of people from all over the world contribute to the work of the IPCC. For the assessment reports, experts volunteer their time as IPCC authors to assess the thousands of scientific papers published each year to provide a comprehensive summary of what is known about the drivers of climate change, its impacts and future risks, and how adaptation and mitigation can reduce those risks. An open and transparent review by experts and member governments is an essential part of the IPCC process to ensure an objective and complete assessment and to reflect a diverse range of views and expertise. The IPCC has three working groups: Working Group I, which addresses with the physical science of climate change; Working Group II, which focuses on the impact, adaptation and vulnerability associated with climate change; and Working Group III, which deals with the mitigation of climate change. It also has a Task Force on Greenhouse Gas Inventories that develops methodologies for measuring emissions and removals. IPCC assessments provide governments, at all levels, with scientific information they can use to develop climate policies. IPCC assessments are a key input into the international negotiations to tackle climate change. IPCC reports are drafted and reviewed in several stages to guarantee accuracy, objectivity and transparency.
About the Sixth Assessment Cycle The IPCC publishes comprehensive scientific assessments every six to seven years. The previous one, the Fifth Assessment Report, was completed in 2014 and provided the main scientific input to The Paris Agreement. At its 41st Session in February 2015, the IPCC decided to produce a Sixth Assessment Report (AR6). At its 42nd Session in October 2015, it elected a new Bureau, which is composed of the IPCC Chair, the IPCC Vice-Chairs, the Co-Chairs and Vice-Chairs of the Working Groups, and the Co-Chairs of the Task Force. At its 43rd Session in April 2016, the IPCC decided to produce three Special Reports, a Methodology Report and AR6.
The Working Group I contribution to AR6, Climate Change 2021: the Physical Science Basis, was released on 9 August 2021. The Working Group II contribution, Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability, was released on 28 February 2022. The Working Group III contribution, Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of Climate Change, was released on 4 April 2022. The IPCC also published the following special reports on more specific issues during the Sixth Assessment Cycle: Global Warming of 1.5°C (2.7°F) in October 2018;
Climate Change and Land in August 2019; and
Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate in September 2019
In May 2019, the IPCC released the 2019 Refinement to the 2006 IPCC Guidelines on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories
For more information, please visit www.ipcc.ch. Most videos published by the IPCC can be found on its YouTube channel

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Press Release

29 March 2023

UNEP’s 2023 Champions of the Earth Award

The Champions of the Earth award honours individuals, groups, and organizations whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment. This year, UNEP seeks nominations of individuals, organisations, and governments working on sustainable solutions to eliminate plastic pollution. Nominations are open from 14 March to 14 April 2023. Nairobi, 14 March 2023 – The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) today launched a call for nominations for its annual Champions of the Earth award – the UN’s highest environmental honour – to recognize outstanding leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector for their transformative impact on the environment. This year, UNEP seeks nomination of individuals, organisations and governments developing and implementing innovative and sustainable solutions and policies to eliminate plastic pollution. Following a historic UN Environment Assembly resolution in 2022 to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment with the ambition to complete the negotiations by end of 2024, the year 2023 is critical to ensuring the world comes together to end the scourge of plastic pollution. This year’s World Environment Day, hosted by Cote d'Ivoire, will also focus on efforts to #BeatPlasticPollution. The challenge of the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature loss and pollution and waste is not insurmountable. People around the world are stepping forward every day to innovate and implement ways to support nature’s extraordinary capacity for renewal. The Champions of the Earth help lead that push. They remind us that environmental sustainability is key to achieving sustainable development. Since the award’s inception in 2005, a total of 111 laureates have been honoured as Champions of the Earth: 26 world leaders, 69 individuals and 16 organizations. In 2022, the Champions of the Earth Award received a record number of nominations from all over the world. The growing interest over the years reflects the increasing number of people standing up for the environment and greater acknowledgement of the value of this work. UNEP’s 2022 Champions of the Earth laureates are: Arcenciel (Lebanon), honoured in the Inspiration and Action category, is a leading environmental enterprise whose work to create a cleaner, healthier environment has laid the foundation for the country’s national waste management strategy. Today, arcenciel recycles more than 80 per cent of Lebanon’s potentially infectious hospital waste every year. Constantino (Tino) Aucca Chutas (Peru), also honoured in the Inspiration and Action category, has pioneered a community reforestation model driven by local and Indigenous communities, which has led to three million trees being planted in the country. He is also leading ambitious reforestation efforts in other Andean countries. Sir Partha Dasgupta (United Kingdom), honoured in the Science and Innovation category, is an eminent economist whose landmark review on the economics of biodiversity calls for a fundamental rethink of humanity’s relationship with the natural world to prevent critical ecosystems from reaching dangerous tipping points. Dr Purnima Devi Barman (India), honoured in the Entrepreneurial Vision category, is a wildlife biologist who leads the “Hargila Army”, an all-female grassroots conservation movement dedicated to protecting the Greater Adjutant Stork from extinction. The women create and sell textiles with motifs of the bird, helping to raise awareness about the species while building their own financial independence. Cécile Bibiane Ndjebet (Cameroon), honoured in the Inspiration and Action category, is a tireless advocate for the rights of women in Africa to secure land tenure, which is essential if they are to play a role in restoring ecosystems, fighting poverty and mitigating climate change. She is also leading efforts to influence policy on gender equality in forest management across 20 African countries. Individuals, government entities, groups and organisations may be nominated under the categories of Policy Leadership, Inspiration and Action, Entrepreneurial Vision, and Science and Innovation. Nominations are open from 14 March to 14 April 2023 to everyone; the Champions of the Earth will be announced in late 2023. Nominate a Champion of the Earth NOTES TO EDITORS About the UNEP Champions of the Earth
UNEP’s Champions of the Earth honours individuals, groups, and organizations whose actions have a transformative impact on the environment. The annual Champions of the Earth award is the UN’s highest environmental honour. It recognizes outstanding leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector. About the UN Environment Programme
UNEP is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. For more information, please contact:
News and Media Unit, UN Environment Programme

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Press Release

28 October 2022

Inadequate progress on climate action makes rapid transformation of societies only option - UNEP

Nairobi, 27 October 2022 – As intensifying climate impacts across the globe hammer home the message that greenhouse gas emissions must fall rapidly, a new UN Environment Programme (UNEP) report finds that the international community is still falling far short of the Paris goals, with no credible pathway to 1.5°C in place. However, the Emissions Gap Report 2022: The Closing Window – Climate crisis calls for rapid transformation of societies finds that urgent sector and system-wide transformations – in the electricity supply, industry, transport and buildings sectors, and the food and financial systems – would help to avoid climate disaster. “This report tells us in cold scientific terms what nature has been telling us, all year, through deadly floods, storms and raging fires: we have to stop filling our atmosphere with greenhouse gases, and stop doing it fast,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. “We had our chance to make incremental changes, but that time is over. Only a root-and-branch transformation of our economies and societies can save us from accelerating climate disaster.” A wasted year The report finds that, despite a decision by all countries at the 2021 climate summit in Glasgow, UK (COP26) to strengthen Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and some updates from nations, progress has been woefully inadequate. NDCs submitted this year take only 0.5 gigatonnes of CO2 equivalent, less than one per cent, off projected global emissions in 2030. This lack of progress leaves the world hurtling towards a temperature rise far above the Paris Agreement goal of well below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C. Unconditional NDCs are estimated to give a 66 per cent chance of limiting global warming to about 2.6°C over the century. For conditional NDCs, those that are dependent on external support, this figure is reduced to 2.4°C. Current policies alone would lead to a 2.8°C hike, highlighting the temperature implications of the gap between promises and action. In the best-case scenario, full implementation of unconditional NDCs and additional net-zero emissions commitments point to only a 1.8°C increase, so there is hope. However, this scenario is not currently credible based on the discrepancy between current emissions, short-term NDC targets and long-term net-zero targets. Unprecedented cuts needed To meet the Paris Agreement goals, the world needs to reduce greenhouse gases by unprecedented levels over the next eight years. Unconditional and conditional NDCs are estimated to reduce global emissions in 2030 by 5 and 10 per cent respectively, compared with emissions based on policies currently in place. To get on a least-cost pathway to holding global warming to 1.5°C, emissions must fall by 45 per cent over those envisaged under current policies by 2030. For the 2°C target, a 30 per cent cut is needed. Such massive cuts mean that we need a large-scale, rapid and systemic transformation. The report explores how to deliver part of this transformation in key sectors and systems. “It is a tall, and some would say impossible, order to reform the global economy and almost halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, but we must try,” said Andersen. “Every fraction of a degree matters: to vulnerable communities, to species and ecosystems, and to every one of us.” “Even if we don’t meet our 2030 goals, we must strive to get as close as possible to 1.5°C. This means setting up the foundations of a net-zero future: one that will allow us to bring down temperature overshoots and deliver many other social and environmental benefits, like clean air, green jobs and universal energy access.” Electricity, industry, transport and buildings The report finds that the transformation towards net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in electricity supply, industry, transportation and buildings is underway, but needs to move much faster. Electricity supply is most advanced, as the costs of renewable electricity have reduced dramatically. However, the pace of change must increase alongside measures to ensure a just transition and universal energy access. For buildings, the best available technologies need to be rapidly applied. For industry and transport, zero emission technology needs to be further developed and deployed. To advance the transformation, all sectors need to avoid lock in of new fossil fuel-intensive infrastructure, advance zero-carbon technology and apply it, and pursue behavioural changes. Food systems can reform to deliver rapid and lasting cuts Focus areas for food systems, which account for about a third of greenhouse gas emissions, include protection of natural ecosystems, demand-side dietary changes, improvements in food production at the farm level and decarbonization of food supply chains. Action in these four areas can reduce projected 2050 food system emissions to around a third of current levels, as opposed to emissions almost doubling if current practices are continued. Governments can facilitate transformation by reforming subsidies and tax schemes. The private sector can reduce food loss and waste, use renewable energy and develop novel foods that cut down carbon emissions. Individual citizens can change their lifestyles to consume food for environmental sustainability and carbon reduction, which will also bring many health benefits. The financial system must enable the transformation A global transformation to a low-emissions economy is expected to require investments of at least USD 4-6 trillion a year. This is a relatively small (1.5-2 per cent) share of total financial assets managed, but significant (20-28 per cent) in terms of additional annual resources to be allocated. Most financial actors, despite stated intentions, have shown limited action on climate mitigation because of short-term interests, conflicting objectives and not recognizing climate risks adequately. Governments and key financial actors will need to steer credibly in one direction: a transformation of the financial system and its structures and processes, engaging governments, central banks, commercial banks, institutional investors and other financial actors. The report recommends six approaches to financial sector reform, which must be carried out simultaneously: Make financial markets more efficient, including through taxonomies and transparency. Introduce carbon pricing, such as taxes or cap-and-trade systems. Nudge financial behaviour, through public policy interventions, taxes, spending and regulations. Create markets for low-carbon technology, through shifting financial flows, stimulating innovation and helping to set standards. Mobilize central banks: central banks are increasingly interested in addressing the climate crisis, but more concrete action on regulations is needed. Set up climate “clubs” of cooperating countries, cross-border finance initiatives and just transformation partnerships, which can alter policy norms and change the course of finance through credible financial commitment devices, such as sovereign guarantees. NOTES TO EDITORS About the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) UNEP is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. For more information, please contact: Keisha Rukikaire, Head of News & Media, UN Environment Programme

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Press Release

06 September 2022

MOH and UNICEF calling for stakeholders action on Children’s Mental Health

Ministry of Health with UNICEF today launched the Malaysia Country Report and Infographic 2022: Strengthening Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Systems and Services for Children and Adolescents in the East Asia and Pacific Region. The MHPSSS study was a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health Malaysia and UNICEF that began in May 2021. Dato’ Dr. Haji Noor Azmi bin Ghazali, Deputy Minister of Health graced the occasion. Mental health of children and adolescents is amongst the most neglected health issues globally, including East Asia and the Pacific. In Malaysia, young children and teenagers experience a high burden of poor mental health. According to the 2019 National Health Mobility Survey (NHMS), about 424,000 children in Malaysia have mental problems, but many do not come forward to seek for assistance. Of particular worry is that 1 in 8 adolescents aged 10–19, and 1 in 20 children aged 5–9 years are estimated to have a mental disorder including developmental disorder. Notably, suicide was second leading cause of death among adolescents aged 15–19. Among risk factors for poor mental health, exposure to violence, peer victimization and bullying, loneliness and social isolation were particularly prevalent. The MHPSS research is the first in the Pacific region that focused on children and adolescent up to 18 years old in Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. The research was conceptualized by Burnet Institute Australia and sponsored by UNICEF. Dr Norizan Binti Rosli from Institute for Clinical Research (ICR), National Institute for Health (NIH) Ministry of Health Malaysia lead the Malaysian team with researchers from the Institute for Health Behavioural Research & Institute for Health Management from NIH, psychiatrists from 4 major public hospitals and in collaboration with Professor Marc Archer from Centre for Mental Health and Well-being, HELP University. The MHPSS report summarizes the consultations and interviews with 124 stakeholders’ from health, justice, social welfare, education sectors including government and non-governmental organisations, UN agencies and youth representatives. The report highlights key gaps in the current response and challenges on the implementation of MHPSS among children and adolescent, including difficult or limited access to services for mental health problems, lack of empowerment in existing law and policies, deficiencies in communication and coordination between sectors, insufficient funding, lack of trained personal in MHPSS for children and adolescent, limited involvement of end user (youth/parent/ care takers/ other sector) in the planning of mental health programs and monitoring. To address these gaps, a priority package of actions are proposed to offer better accessibility and responsiveness towards mental health conditions. In addition, sectoral lead and specific recommendations are identified to improve the implementation of MHPSS for children and adolescents. “The Ministry of Health is committed to translating the MHPSS research findings into policy and practice. As we are developing the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health (NCEMH) MOH urges all stakeholders and experts, from both government and non-governmental agencies, to facilitate greater collaboration and coordination in the implementation of MHPSS for children and adolescents in Malaysia. Poor mental health can have a profound impact on the health, learning and participation of children and adolescents, thus limiting their opportunities to reach their full potential. There is a substantial unmet need for MHPSS for children and adolescents” said Dato’ Dr Haji Noor Azmi bin Ghazali, Deputy Minister of Health I. The MHPSS conceptual framework in Malaysia provides country-specific recommendations based on evidence for policy and decision-making. Complementing the country report is an infographic designed to disseminate key research findings to the public. “UNICEF commends the Ministry of Health Malaysia for their swift action and focus in addressing the mental health needs of children and adolescents. Based on the evidence generated by the Report, and the increasing prevalence of mental health conditions among children and adolescents, now more than ever is the time to consider the formation of a National Steering Committee for Children and Adolescents Mental Health, that holds the authority and resources to drive action. Your commitment will change the trajectory of mental health care in Malaysia, that will in turn contribute to the health and prosperity of the nation”, said Christopher Davids, Deputy Representative for UNICEF in Malaysia. The Ministry of Health is grateful for UNICEF’s support in this research and welcomes their continued support in implementing the research findings and future collaborative research. 29 August 2022 Note to editors: The report is available online: https://unicef.org/malaysia/reports/strengthening-mental-health-psychosocial-support-systems-services The research was conceptualized by Burnet Institute Australia, supported by UNICEF, and overseen by both organizations. Malaysia is among four countries in which the research was conducted—Thailand, Philippines, and Papua New Guinea being the others. The research in Malaysia was executed by researchers and psychiatrists from the Ministry of Health Malaysia. The researchers hailed from three research institutes from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)— Institute for Clinical Research (ICR), Institute for Health Behavioural Research (IHBR), and Institute for Health Management (IHM). About NIH, MOH Malaysia NIH is the research body under the Ministry of Health Malaysia. We focus on conducting health research to support the ministry and the stakeholders in ensuring the wellbeing of the people. The establishment of the NIH aims to create seamless continuum research from identifying research priorities, conducting research, and utilizing research findings for the health services and programs. The six research institutes under NIH are Institute for Clinical Research (ICR), Institute for Health Behavioural Research (IHBR), Institute for Health Management (IHM), Institute for Medical Research (IMR), Institute for Public Health (IKU), and Institute for Health System Research (IHSR) For more information about NIH, visit: www.nih.gov.my About UNICEF
UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. For more information about UNICEF and its work, visit: www.unicef.org Follow UNICEF on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube For more information, please contact: Dr Norizan Binti Rosli & Dr Aimi Nadiah, ICR, NIH, MOH Malaysia, +603 3362 8864, norizan@crc.gov.my / aimi.nadiah@moh.gov.my Rachel Choong, UNICEF Malaysia, +6012 293 2690, rchoong@unicef.org

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Press Release

09 August 2022

The annual health-care cost of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer in Malaysia exceeds RM 9.65 billion

"Even without the additional threat posed by COVID-19, noncommunicable diseases are a significant health burden and public health challenge in our country. And while they are not an acute emergency or rapidly-moving infectious disease, they are equally devastating to individuals, societies and economies," said Tan Sri Dato' Seri Dr Noor Hisham bin Abdullah, Director General of Health Malaysia. NCDs are the main cause of death and disability in Malaysia. It is estimated that 1 in 5 adult Malaysians are living with diabetes, 1 in 3 are living with hypertension, and nearly half are overweight or obese (National Health and Morbidity Survey, 2019). The growing prevalence of NCDs is placing an increased strain on the country's health system. "We saw that among the most vulnerable to the virus are people with underlying health conditions, including NCDs like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer, who have a higher risk of severe COVID-19 disease and are more likely to die from COVID-19," continued Dr Hisham. "WHO continues to support the government of Malaysia in its efforts to address the growing challenge of NCDs through supporting addressing the risk factors, encouraging adoption of healthy lifestyles and strengthening primary care for early diagnosis and improved management of NCDs,” said Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe, WHO Representative in Malaysia. The report released today utilized data from the year 2017. The secured data were largely restricted to the public sector, and extrapolations to the private sector were based on assumptions. While the cost estimates are based on the best available data, they no doubt underestimate the real cost of the direct health-care costs associated with NCDs in Malaysia. Aside from the health-care costs, previous studies have estimated the economic loss due to absenteeism, presenteeism in the workplace and the premature death of the working age population as upwards of RM 8.91 billion. In addition, the cost of disability and loss of healthy life years was estimated to be around RM 100.79 billion (The Impact of Noncommunicable Diseases and Their Risk Factors on Malaysia's Gross Domestic Product, 2020). This information can be used to identify cost-effective ways to prevent NCDs, reduce the costs of NCD management, and prioritize the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. Dr Hisham calls on collaboration to have publicly informed, evidence-based policies that could support the change in Malaysian's behaviour. “The problem of NCDs in Malaysia is also compounded by the fact that the country has a rapidly ageing population in which the failure to address adequately the challenge of NCDs could significantly impact health-care costs and economic well-being of the community,” added Dr Rabindra. Malaysia is expected to reach the status of an aged nation by 2030, with people over the age of 65 making up more than 14% of the population. With the population ageing, more and more people are expected to live with NCDs in the long term. Given this demographic change, NCDs' health and economic burden can also be expected to increase over time. "Increasing awareness about NCDs and their management among the general population and those at risk now will contribute to increased longevity and healthy ageing of Malaysian through a reduction of premature mortality due to NCDs and their complications" said Dr Rabindra. The report can be downloaded here.

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