Fiji is calling for stronger political commitment and tangible action as countries prepare for COP31, stressing that exceeding the 1.5°C warming threshold should not be treated as a reason to abandon climate efforts.

Speaking at Pre-COP31, Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya highlighted the growing impact of climate change on Pacific communities, including rising sea levels, damaged coral reefs and the relocation of communities.

She said decisions made now will influence both the extent and duration of future warming, stressing the need for continued action even in the face of the risk of temperature overshoot.

Fiji is advocating for faster reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, a fair transition away from fossil fuels and greater access to climate finance for vulnerable communities.

This includes increased support for adaptation measures and addressing loss and damage.

While acknowledging Pacific priorities included in the COP31 Action Agenda, such as ocean protection and improved access to climate finance, Tabuya said commitments must translate into measurable outcomes for communities on the ground.

She said Pacific nations were seeking meaningful partnerships rather than sympathy, while bringing their ambition, Indigenous knowledge and lived experience to global climate discussions.

With COP31 scheduled to take place in Antalya, Fiji’s message is that the focus should ultimately be on the climate impacts that can still be prevented and the communities that can still be protected.