UN chief warns of sea level

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a stark warning at the Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, highlighting the grave threat posed by rising sea levels, which are increasing at triple the global rate in the region. He characterized the situation as a climate crisis of 'unimaginable scale,' calling for urgent global action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, primarily generated by fossil fuel burning. Reports indicate that Pacific islands are experiencing severe environmental impacts, including intensified storm surges and coastal flooding, jeopardizing local communities and ecosystems. Guterres emphasized the injustice faced by Pacific nations, which contribute minimally to climate change yet bear its most severe consequences. He urged big polluters to take responsibility and outlined that without immediate action, sea levels could rise an additional 15 centimeters by 2050, leading to more frequent coastal flooding. As discussions on climate change continue, the urgency for transformative resilience and proactive measures is more critical than ever.