MOSCOW (Sputnik) — This generation is the first to feel the destructive effects of climate change and probably the last one that can do anything about it, US President Barack Obama said at the Paris climate summit on Monday, calling for a low-carbon future.
"We are the first generation to feel climate change and the last that can do something about it," Obama said in a speech in Paris.
The president also stated that the United States will announce new assistance to the least developed countries to help them rebuild after climate disasters.
“Today, in concert with other nations, America confirms our strong and ongoing commitment to the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF). And tomorrow, we’ll pledge new contributions to risk insurance initiatives that help vulnerable populations rebuild stronger after climate-related disasters,” Obama said.
The US president also called on other leaders to ensure that the least developed countries get the necessary resources to be prepared for the climate change consequences.
The Global Environment Facility said Monday that eleven donors, including EU members, the United States and Canada, have pledged nearly $250 million for the LDCF.
The United States is the world’s second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, after China. It has been previously reluctant to sign legally binding deals to cut carbon emissions.
Paris is currently hosting the 21st UN Climate Change Conference, ending December 11. Some 130 leaders and top diplomats from dozens of countries are expected to reach a legally binding agreement on climate change.
