1. A Global Response Plan to address the 1.5°C emissions gap

Right now, countries’ new climate pledges — their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) — still fall far short of what’s needed to keep global warming below 1.5°C. If governments don’t step up, the world is on track to blow past this critical limit, with devastating consequences for Australia, the Pacific, and the entire planet. We can’t wait for another review cycle — COP30 must deliver a strong, credible Global Response Plan that drives urgent action.

To kickstart this, world leaders at the start of COP30 need to send a clear message: the energy transition is happening, fossil fuels are on the way out, and closing the emissions gap is non-negotiable.

People's Plenary at COP29 in Baku. © Marie Jacquemin / Greenpeace — Activist raises arm in solidarity at COP29 People’s Plenary.
The 29th UN Climate Conference, COP29, takes place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 11 to 22 November 2024. Greenpeace is at the COP to hold governments to account to make fossil fuel polluters pay for the climate crisis they have created, and put fossil fuel phase out plans at the heart of national climate action.

2. Protect Forests and Biodiversity

Forests are vital for life and climate stability — yet global pledges to protect them are fragmented and weak. COP30 must deliver a five-year Forest Action Plan to halt and reverse deforestation by 2030 and bring together all international efforts under one clear roadmap.

Biodiversity and climate are two sides of the same crisis. Addressing one without the other risks harm. COP30 must unite the three Rio Conventions on climate, biodiversity, and desertification so nature and people thrive together.

Bushfire in Snowy Mountains, Australia. © Kiran Ridley / Greenpeace — The New South Wales ‘Mega’ fire, which measures 1.5 million acres, burns on the outskirts of the small town of Tumbarumba in the Snowy Mountains, NSW. © Kiran Ridley / Greenpeace

3. Make Polluters Pay and Fund Climate Action

A lack of finance is blocking progress. COP30 must create a strong accountability plan for the new global climate finance goal — starting with US$300 billion and scaling to US$1.3 trillion — ensuring funds reach First Nations, local communities, and vulnerable nations. Governments must back polluter-pays reforms so big emitters fund real climate solutions, not greenwash.

Activists hold banners to make polluters pay, calling for a just and equitable fossil fuel phase out. — © Marie Jacquemin / Greenpeace

4. Towards a Pacific-Led COP31

A Pacific COP is a historic opportunity for bold climate leadership. Australia must ensure Pacific voices shape every decision — from closing the 1.5°C gap to phasing out fossil fuels and securing fair finance.

COP31 must also deliver a fast, fair fossil fuel phase-out — turning words into concrete action and signalling the end of coal, oil, and gas.

Why COP30 is critical for Australia and the Pacific

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