Guterres Marks Decade of Climate Advocacy at Final Conference
The outgoing UN Secretary-General used his last climate conference to reflect on ten years in office and warn about rising global temperatures.
Updated on Nov. 13, 2026 in Environmental
Live Poll
Do you think the government is doing enough to address climate change?
António Guterres held a press conference in Antalya, Türkiye, on November 13, reflecting on his 10 years as UN Secretary-General during his final climate conference as UN chief. He said he consistently sought to present scientific climate facts, even when uncomfortable.
Why it matters
Climate change is undermining global development, economic stability and international security, and continued dependence on fossil fuels leaves countries exposed to price shocks and geopolitical tensions. A new Secretary-General is expected to take over next year, shaping the next phase of international climate action.
The figures cited are Guterres's 10-year tenure and the 1.5-degree Celsius warming threshold, which is considered temporarily exceeded. The source does not provide a timeline for returning temperatures below that level.
The players
António Guterres
Portuguese diplomat and former prime minister of Portugal who served as UN Secretary-General for a decade and is known for his advocacy on climate change and global development.
The details
Speaking to reporters in Antalya, Guterres said Small Island Developing States continue to face rising sea levels, coastal erosion and severe weather despite contributing relatively little to global emissions. He called on developed nations to honour their climate financing commitments and said climate disasters are increasing food insecurity and displacement.
Timeline
Guterres served 10 years as UN Secretary-General before stepping down.
November 13, 2026: press conference held in Antalya, Türkiye.
Next year (2027): a new Secretary-General is expected to take office.
Seasonal Patterns
Guterres's remarks come as the world is expected to temporarily exceed the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold set under the 2015 Paris Agreement, a benchmark that has framed international climate negotiations since its adoption. The overshoot would mark a departure from the goal's original trajectory.
Readers in vulnerable regions, including Small Island Developing States, face rising sea levels and severe weather that can disrupt daily life and livelihoods. Following national and local climate adaptation guidance from relevant authorities can help households prepare for these risks.
The takeaway
Climate-related disasters are already driving food insecurity and displacement, and the gap between wealthy and vulnerable nations' emissions and impacts remains wide. Staying informed about national climate financing and adaptation commitments is one practical way to follow whether those promises are kept.
What happens next
A new UN Secretary-General is expected to assume the position next year, 2027.
Further reading
Explore more on Environmental coverage for broader context on global climate policy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sknvibes.
Live Poll
Do you think the government is doing enough to address climate change?
