Despite these risks, Flannery emphasised that decisive action can still prevent a future of 3–4°C warming, which he described as “truly catastrophic.” He urged both nations to accelerate emission cuts, expand adaptation programs, and invest in resilient local systems.

A major focus of his address was the economic opportunity in clean energy. He argued PNG will struggle to build industries or create jobs while energy costs remain high. Cheap, abundant renewables—solar, hydro and geothermal—are essential for processing minerals, timber and fisheries domestically rather than exporting raw materials.

Professor Flannery praised PNG communities for their global leadership in conservation, citing the Tangkalay Conservation Association as a model for mobilising climate finance and empowering remote regions. He also called for large-scale technical training, especially in solar maintenance, and urged Australia to step up support in education and skills development.

He closed by acknowledging PNG’s historic generosity—highlighting the K1.4 million raised by grassroots communities during Australia’s 2019 to 2020 bushfires and urged both nations to now “act together with urgency and courage” in facing the climate crisis.