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Ren21: Climate policy promises in past decade have mostly been empty words
A new report by Ren21 shows that the world is nowhere near the necessary paradigm shift towards a clean, healthier and more equitable energy future. The report further states that the share of fossil fuels in the total energy mix is as high as a decade ago while the Executive Director of Ren21, Rana Adib adds that the climate policy promises over the past ten years have mostly been empty words. She joins CNBC Africa for more.
Tue, 15 Jun 2021 14:22:31 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- The REN21 report highlights the lack of progress in the global energy transition towards renewables, with the share of fossil fuels in the energy mix remaining high despite commitments to renewable energy.
- Rana Adib emphasizes the need for concrete strategies and actions to phase out fossil fuel subsidies and create a supportive policy environment for renewable energy development.
- The report advocates for renewable energy share to be established as a key performance indicator in all sectors and underscores the potential benefits of transitioning to renewable energy, even for countries heavily reliant on fossil fuels.
A new report by REN21 has highlighted the lack of progress in the global energy transition towards a cleaner and more equitable future. The report underscores that despite increasing awareness and commitments to renewable energy, the share of fossil fuels in the energy mix remains as high as it was a decade ago. Rana Adib, the Executive Director of REN21, expressed disappointment in the empty promises made by policymakers over the past ten years, emphasizing the urgent need for decisive action. Adib stressed that while the renewable energy sector has shown growth, it is not sufficient to drive the necessary structural shift away from fossil fuels globally. The report calls for concrete strategies and initiatives to phase out fossil fuel subsidies and create a supportive policy environment for renewable energy development. Adib highlighted the importance of setting clear short, medium, and long-term targets to achieve a sustainable energy transition. She emphasized that ambition alone is not enough and called for tangible actions to bridge the gap between current progress and desired outcomes. The report also advocates for renewable energy share to be established as a key performance indicator in all sectors to hold decision-makers accountable. Adib addressed the challenges faced by countries heavily reliant on fossil fuels, such as Nigeria, and emphasized the potential benefits of transitioning to renewable energy, including building resilient energy infrastructure and addressing energy access. Despite economic barriers, Adib pointed out that countries like Nigeria are recognizing the advantages of renewable energy and are investing in sustainable energy projects as part of their economic recovery plans. She noted the importance of removing barriers to renewable energy adoption, such as pricing pollution and engaging sub-national governments, corporations, and citizens as key stakeholders in the transition. Adib highlighted examples of cities like Cape Town in South Africa leading the way with ambitious climate strategies and leveraging their purchasing power to drive renewable energy uptake. The report's findings underscore the need for collaborative efforts and innovative solutions to accelerate the global energy transition towards a renewable future.
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