Dhaka: The UN Environment has said the countries need to move quickly to implement commitments to reducing emissions in their nationally determined contributions submissions.

‘The work has just begun,’ acting Regional Director, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific Isabelle Louis said in a statement.  

It said the UN Environment will continue to work with Asia-Pacific countries to develop solutions for climate change and stands ready to support countries in realizing their nationally determined contributions, according to a message received here from UNEP on Friday.

‘The Asia and the Pacific region made significant contribution towards this milestone, with half the countries in the region, among them major global emitters, having ratified the Paris Agreement,’ Louis said.

The statement said the UN Environment Asia Pacific looks forward to other countries doing so soon.

The Paris Agreement, coming into force on November 4, is an important moment in history, Louis said.  

‘It is also historic that it is coming into force within a year of its adoption by countries. This fast-track ratification is a clear indication of countries’ commitments to address the climate change and their recognition that actions can no longer be delayed.’

On October 5, the threshold for entry into force of the Paris Agreement was achieved.  

The first session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA1) will take place in Marrakech in conjunction with COP 22 and CMP 12.