Legendary British broadcaster David Attenborough, arguably the world’s greatest ambassador for nature and the global environment, has been appointed the “people’s advocate” at the global climate summit this year, where he is expected to address political leaders about the need for urgent action to tackle the “crippling” threat of climate change.

The 95-year-old, best known for his documentaries on the natural world such as “Planet Earth,” and who famously boasts the innate ability to equally narrate animal exploits into high drama, high hilarity, or poignant purpose, says the coronavirus pandemic has shown how crucial it is to secure international agreements to solve worldwide problems.

In a short video message, he says the problems that await us within the next five to 10 years are even greater.

Britain is hosting the United Nations’ COP26 climate conference in Glasgow, Scotland, in November, and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson thanked Attenborough for taking up the role, saying he has inspired millions with his TV work.

As part of his role, Attenborough is also expected to speak at the G-7 leaders’ summit in Cornwall, southwestern England, next month.

Johnson’s government said last month it would commit to a tough new climate target, aiming to cut carbon emissions by 78% of their 1990 levels by 2035.

The new target, which will be enshrined in law, will include for the first time Britain’s share of emissions from international aviation and shipping.