We bear the brunt of the climate crisis. A Pacific Cop could help shape the global response | Surangel Whipps Jr

Australia should also make moves to address the climate impact of its fossil fuel production and exports

Watching from the western Pacific, we saw many describe Australia's recent election as a decisive moment for climate and energy policy. If that was the case, the people of Australia have spoken loud and clear.

Like many of us in the Pacific had hoped, most Australians wanted to throw off the shackles of the last decade's climate wars" and usher in a new era of responsible climate and energy policy, one that harnesses the limitless potential of Australia's renewable energy superpowers and helps lead the Pacific region and the world to a safer and more prosperous climate future.