We have kept 1.5 degrees within reach, but the pulse is weak. The world needs to go further and faster in the coming years.
Analysis
The official transcript of the COP26 closing ceremony on 13 November 2021 records Alok Sharma stating, "We have kept 1.5 degrees within reach, but the pulse is weak. The world needs to go further and faster in the coming years." Multiple reputable news outlets cited the same quote, confirming its authenticity.
Background
Alok Sharma, the UK Minister for COP26, delivered the closing remarks of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow. His speech emphasized the need for accelerated climate action to stay within the 1.5 °C warming limit set by the Paris Agreement.
Verdict summary
Alok Sharma indeed said those words in his closing remarks at COP26.
Sources consulted
— UNFCCC COP26 Closing Remarks Transcript, 13 November 2021
— BBC News article on COP26 closing statements, 13 November 2021
— The Guardian coverage of Alok Sharma's closing speech at COP26