Global leaders convene at COP31 climate summit in Turkey amid growing urgency over slow climate action

Negotiations take place as scientists warn global warming is likely to exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and rising fuel prices driven by conflict in Iran prompt governments to re-evaluate renewable energy investments and fossil fuel policies.

• •World leaders began arriving in Antalya, Turkey, on Wednesday for formal talks at COP31.
• •Delegates face growing pressure due to an increase in extreme weather events including deadly floods and heat waves over the past year.
• •Turkey is hosting the conference while Australia is heading the negotiations.
• •The 2023 conference in Dubái resulted in an agreement to transition away from fossil fuels, but subsequent meetings in Azerbaijan and Brazil produced few reduction agreements.
• •Scientists state that global warming is likely to exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels from the early 19th century.
• •The 1.5-degree threshold was established as a target during the 2015 Paris Agreement.
• •The conflict in Iran has increased global prices for gasoline, oil, fertilizers, and pesticides, leading governments to rethink energy policies and renewable investments.
• •John Kerry stated that the conference needs concrete plans rather than more promises.
• •The United States is absent from the summit for the second consecutive year.
• •President Donald Trump has called climate change a hoax, pursued offshore wind projects, and eliminated power plant emission limits.