UN CHIEF CLIMATE WARNING
Scientists compared flies from cool California forests with those from hot Southwestern deserts; a 2025 study found their brains responded differently to heat
Two fly species, Drosophila persimilis and Drosophila mojavensis, showcase fascinating adaptations to their environments, revealing their opposing responses to heat. While forest-dwelling flies evade warmth, their desert counterparts thrive in it. These contrasting behaviors highlight significant neural changes that not only reflect physical adaptations but also altered sensory processing. This research is pivotal in predicting how species may cope with the challenges of climate change.
Strait of Hormuz will "never return" to pre-war status: Ghalibaf says "ball in US court" on peace talks
Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf discussed the future management of the Strait of Hormuz with Oman. He emphasized that the waterway's regulations would change following the US-Israel war on Iran. Negotiations with the United States are contingent upon adhering to Iran's seven conditions.
COP31: UN Chief Antonio Guterres warns climate crisis outpacing action
Antonio Guterres addressed world leaders at the climate talks in Antalya and highlighted urgent climate action needs. He stressed that emissions must be reduced, emphasizing the role of developed countries in supporting developing nations. Guterres outlined four essential pillars of a Climate Justice Compact during his keynote speech. He urged nations to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources for sustainability.
World leaders urge stronger and faster action at UN climate talks over inadequate response
World leaders gathered in Turkey for COP31 to discuss effective strategies to combat climate change. Notably absent are leaders from major polluting nations, including the United States, China, and India. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged immediate action in his opening speech and suggested a framework for cooperation. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva emphasized the need for global leadership on environmental issues.
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Climate crisis is outrunning world, UN chief Antonio Guterres warns leaders at COP31
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed world leaders at the COP31 summit in Turkey regarding climate change action. He warned that the slow international response threatens the planet's future and urged countries to implement clean energy solutions. Negotiators from nearly 200 nations are currently seeking agreement on enhancing electricity's role in global energy consumption. The summit occurs amid significant geopolitical challenges and alarming climate data highlighting increasing global temperatures.
World leaders begin talks as COP31 faces pressure to turn climate promises into action amid rising global warming
World leaders are gathering in Turkey for the UN climate conference COP31 amid mounting pressure to translate climate commitments into concrete action. The summit comes after a year of deadly climate-related disasters, stalled progress on fossil fuel reductions and growing concerns that global warming will exceed the 1.5°C threshold set under the Paris Agreement. Rising energy prices linked to the Iran war and the absence of the US delegation add to the challenges facing negotiations.
Disaster warning systems race to keep pace with galloping climate risks
Twice a day during the rainy season, Raquel Izarra climbs to the roof of her home in the eastern Lima suburb of Santa Ines Bajo and measures how much rain has fallen using a homemade gauge, before
'Mobilising $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 to require overhaul of climate finance system'
Mobilising $1.3 trillion a year in climate finance for developing countries by 2035 is achievable, but only with a major overhaul of the global climate finance system, according to a report released by Brazil’s COP30 presidency at COP31 in Antalya. Without policy changes, annual flows are projected to reach only about $460 billion, leaving an $840 billion shortfall. The report says a combination of public and private funding, carbon markets and new taxes could raise $1.27-1.41 trillion annually by 2035. Private investment could contribute $882 billion, public sources $351-384 billion and carbon markets $40-144 billion.
UN body agrees to postpone review of US rights record after Trump administration snub
The UN Human Rights Council has postponed its review of the United States' human rights record until January after the Trump administration refused to participate, making the US the first UN member state to fully reject the process. The 47-member council approved the delay by consensus to give Washington more time to reconsider its decision.
2026 set to rank among four warmest years on record, says WMO
The World Meteorological Organization indicates that 2026 will likely be among the four warmest years recorded. The global average temperature so far in 2026 is notably above pre-industrial levels, with more increases expected. El Nino's influence is expected to contribute substantially to this warming trend later in the year. Additionally, sea levels have reached unprecedented heights and ice loss continues to accelerate.
No one should be left behind in efforts to tackle climate change: India at COP31
At the ongoing COP31 climate conference in Turkiye, India highlighted the urgent need for equity in climate action. The country reaffirmed its commitment to addressing adaptation needs, especially for the Global South. India called attention to the critical role of public finance from developed nations in supporting developing countries. Additionally, India's statement emphasized the importance of Article 9.1 of the Paris Agreement for financing.
Iran uses global climate talks to highlight impact of US strike on Minab school
Iran is utilizing the COP31 climate summit to highlight the consequences of a US missile strike on a school. The national pavilion features images of the incident’s aftermath along with a virtual reality experience. Additionally, visiting officials will see exhibits from Ukraine addressing efforts in renewable energy amid conflict. The conference has become a platform for discussing global energy price increases related to regional conflicts.
Global climate talks open with big questions, smaller goals
Climate negotiators from nearly 200 countries are attending COP31 in Antalya, Turkey, to address rising global temperatures and emissions. The summit will focus on achieving existing commitments rather than making ambitious new goals amidst geopolitical tensions and financial constraints.
Fossil fuel emissions fall due to Iran war and renewables, finds research
Emissions from the burning of oil, gas and coal -- the main drivers of climate change -- rose by 0.9 percent per year on average in the past decade, hitting a record high in 2025, according to the Global Carbon Budget report.
Climate finance remains key friction point as COP31 opens in Turkiye's Antalya
COP31 commenced in Antalya, where climate finance was added to the agenda after negotiations. Developed countries opposed the proposal for a dedicated discussion on adaptation finance. Concerns were raised regarding the weakening trust among nations over the inclusion process. The African Group's suggestion for increased adaptation finance was notably rejected. As COP31 emphasizes implementation, delegates stressed that financial support is essential for achieving climate goals.
2026 to be one of four warmest years on record: WMO
The year 2026 is on track to become one of the four hottest years on record, with global temperatures averaging 1.47°C above pre-industrial levels during January-September, according to the World Meteorological Organization. An intensifying El Nino could push temperatures higher into 2027, as record ocean heat, rising greenhouse gas concentrations and extreme weather deepen the global climate crisis.
World entering 'age of climate extremes': UN chief Guterres
The world is entering a new reality where climate extremes are the norm, the United Nations chief Antonio Guterres warned Monday, urging leaders at the COP31 climate conference in Turkey to "get serious". "We have entered a new age of climate extremes."
World's largest climate summit COP31 opens as climate and geopolitical pressures mount
The UN climate talks are set to begin in Antalya, where rising temperatures create an urgent need for global cooperation. More than 100,000 attendees from nearly 200 countries are expected to discuss climate action and funding for developing nations. The ongoing geopolitical tensions complicate negotiations, especially regarding fossil fuel transitions. Additionally, developing countries are advocating for increased adaptation finance to combat climate impacts.
Geopolitical tensions, climate finance and 1.5°C breach cloud COP31 negotiations
Kicking off in Antalya, the UN climate conference COP31 will tackle significant climate action issues. With around 160 matters on the agenda, delegates will discuss emission cuts and strategies for global adaptation. Political strains and economic challenges pose obstacles, but Turkiye and Australia are at the helm, advocating for actionable solutions and financial commitments for developing nations, striving for a unified decision on essential climate concerns.
COP31 a 'moment of truth': UN chief Guterres urges world leaders to act now on climate change
António Guterres has urged global leaders to take immediate action against climate change ahead of the COP31 summit. He emphasizes that responsibility should not be shifted and that everyone must commit to change now. Guterres highlights the worsening impact of climate disasters and the interplay between climate change and other global challenges. Additionally, he believes that fossil fuel companies should contribute by being taxed on their profits.
Climate finance, trade likely to be on COP31 table
COP31, scheduled to occur in Antalya from November 9-20, will address significant climate finance and trade issues. Discussions include the funding developed countries owe to developing nations for climate change adaptation. The African Group aims to formalize financial support strategies and assess funding needs for climate initiatives. Additionally, proposals regarding the impact of climate-related trade measures on developing countries have been put forward.
Environmental groups embrace AI, even as they warn of data center impacts
Environmental organisations are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance conservation efforts and analyze ecological data. Many express concerns about the environmental impact caused by data centers that support AI technologies. The energy and water consumption of these centers is projected to double by 2030, raising emissions concerns.
How China's clean-tech machine is reshaping the global climate fight
In 2024, China took the lead as the top investor in global clean technology, directing $132 billion to developing nations to aid carbon reduction efforts. This unprecedented infusion of resources could potentially reshape the landscape of international climate finance.
Brazil offers road map to phase down fossil fuels, halt deforestation
Building on the decision adopted at the first global stocktake of the Paris Agreement at COP28 in Dubai in 2023, these seek to advance climate action, strengthen international cooperation and mobilise investment, while supporting economic development, energy security and people's livelihoods. "This is the last delivery of the COP30 presidency," said Ana Toni, chief executive of the 2025 round of the UN climate talks.
UN climate panel to resume in December after key report deadlock
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) will convene virtually from December 1 to 3, focusing on finalizing a crucial report addressing climate change and its budget. While several nations advocate for its completion ahead of the 2028 UN climate summit, others, including Saudi Arabia, India, and China, propose a delay until 2029, highlighting the ongoing tensions around global climate action.
AI is part of solution for climate change, COP31 pledge says
Turkey is set to introduce a pledge at the upcoming COP31 climate summit in Antalya. This pledge suggests that artificial intelligence can help in combating climate change effectively. However, data centers are reportedly increasing fossil fuel emissions significantly, raising environmental concerns.
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