“There is ample evidence from the UN’s climate science panel that global greenhouse gas emissions have to be zero or near zero by the end of the 21st century if we want to achieve the goal of holding a global temperature rise below 2C. Climate neutrality is not nirvana or an alternative universe.”

“I am making a strong call for governments to put us on a pathway to achieve zero net emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels in the second half of this century. Unlike the financial crisis, we do not have a ‘climate bailout’ option up our sleeve.”

“The Elders support the overall goal of carbon-neutrality by 2050. To phase down greenhouse gas emissions, governments should do all they can to encourage the switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy and energy efficiency.”

“Our new agreement must create a vision for a safe climate future. As the IPCC has told us, we need global emissions to approach zero by the middle of this century. We must build this understanding into our negotiations…”

“The IPCC shows that for a two-thirds or better chance of holding warming to 2°C, GHG emissions will need to fall to near-zero or below in the second half of the century…. technological innovation is very likely to make it achievable – even likelier if governments adopt the goal and incentivise its achievement.”

“Limiting warming below 2°C with a high chance of success means that total GHG emissions would need to be zero between 2060 and 2080, and likely negative thereafter”.

“Limiting warming below 2°C with a high chance of success means that total GHG emissions would need to be zero between 2060 and 2080, and likely negative thereafter”.

“We do not face a choice between protecting our environment or protecting our economy. We face a choice between protecting our economy by protecting our environment — or allowing environmental havoc to create economic havoc.”

“Phasing out greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by mid-century is just the signal needed to shift investment, change business plans and engage people in tackling the greatest challenge of our times.”

“Our fair and full phase out of fossil fuel dependence to 100% renewable power has become a no-brainer. There is no doubt that we will achieve this phase out and phase in. The question is: will we be able to achieve it in time, within the first half of this century to avoid catastrophic climate impacts?”