Brussels, 14 April 2014 (ITUC OnLine): The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), issued yesterday in Berlin, gives renewed confidence that the world can still avoid catastrophic climate change with rapid and sustained cuts to carbon emissions.
Sharan Burrow, ITUC General Secretary, said, "The world's leading climate experts told us a week ago that climate is already changing in every part of the world, and that the costs of inaction would be catastrophic. Yesterday's report shows that the world has the capacity to meet the challenge. Governments need to cease their prevarication and rise to that challenge now."
The IPCC brought together hundreds of reports which show that investments in zero and low-carbon energy sources will need to at least triple by 2050.
"These investments are critical for fighting climate change, as well as for tackling other major social priorities, such as unemployment, said Burrow. We know that millions of jobs can be created in the renewable energy, building efficiency and public transit sectors. Governments must send now the right signals and show their commitment to a climate-sound and job-friendly transition".
Mobilising for climate action will be a central issue at the forthcoming 3rd ITUC World Congress, next 18-23 May in Berlin, Germany.
"Working people are at the forefront of the climate struggle. Unless we are able to stop dangerous climate change and create sustainable jobs, the dreams of prosperity of millions around the world are at risk. We still have time to make it happen," concluded Burrow.
The ITUC represents 176 million workers in 161 countries and territories and has 325 national affiliates.