Demonstrators are set to take to the streets across the world on Friday to demand urgent action on climate change, with more than 150 events planned in 50 countries.
The rally, which has been organised by climate activists, is calling for a rapid and equitable transition away from fossil fuels in order to prevent further climate catastrophe.
The transition to cleaner forms of energy is essential to limit global temperature rise to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement.
Many countries, including some in the Global North, are still exploring the expansion of new coal projects, despite a commitment to transition away from fossil fuels. This is a double standard which must be stopped, if we are to avert the worst effects of climate change.
The climate crisis is escalating rapidly, with global coal use and capacity at an all-time high.
To prevent further climate catastrophe, a rapid, equitable, and funded phase-out of fossil fuels is necessary, as the transition to renewable energy is less costly, quicker to build, easier to make accessible to all communities, and reduces reliance on imported fuels.
The demand for urgent action on climate change is a clear and present threat to world security. If we fail at this, we will fail future generations.