The Nation Newspaper

Tag: climate change

  • Hope rises as world moves towards climate agreement

     

    There was hope at the ongoing Conference of Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) conference in Paris following the release of a draft text of agreements on Thursday. The ‘text’ is a set of agreements by the 195 countries that signed up to the UNFCCC.

     The text as released show that the world has agreed (tentatively) to keep global carbon emissions levels between the 1.5 -2 degree benchmark.

     The draft text has been a major source of disagreement between the developed and developing nations with each country seeking to include issues that are most favourable to it.

     Some of the contentious issues which divided the negotiators include an agreement to lower carbon emissions below the 1.5 degree (pre-industrial revolution) benchmark. The African group of negotiators, Small Island states and Asia are pushing for a reduction in carbon emission below 1.5 while many of the developed countries led by the United States of America (USA) want to cap emissions at 2 degrees.

     Another issue of contention was the inclusion of the Loss and Damage in the text; this would have opened up a litany of lawsuits from developing countries against the developed nations and the big polluting states. The issue of finance was also key with the developing countries insisting on the “polluter pays” principle. Nigeria’s conditional Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) also indicates that the country will lower emissions by 45 percent if finances are made available.

     However, in the text released Parties appeared to have taken the agitations of many developed countries into consideration. “Parties hereby establish the global goal of enhancing adaptive capacity, strengthening resilience and reducing

    vulnerability to climate change, [in accordance with the objective, principles and provisions of the Convention, including common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities,] with a view to contributing to

    sustainable development [and ensuring adaptation in the context of the goal of holding the increase in the global average temperature below [2 degrees C] [[2 or] 1.5 degrees C referred to in Article 2].

    The parties also agreed to set machinery in motion that would address the irreversible and permanent damage arising from climate change. While this is well below a well-defined agreement on loss and damage, it is a step towards justice for vulnerable countries.

    “A process to develop approaches to address irreversible and permanent damage resulting from human-induced climate change will be initiated under the [Warsaw International Mechanism] [CMA] with a view to completing this process within four years].

     Also of great importance is the agreement on climate finance which will see $100billion per year contribution towards adaption and mitigation efforts.

     “The provision and mobilization of financial resources by developed country Parties and other developed Parties included in Annex II shall represent a progression beyond their previous efforts with clearly

    Identified pathways to annual expected levels of available resources towards achieving short-term collective quantified goals for the post 2020 period to be periodically established and reviewed.

     “Financial resources shall be scaled up from a floor of US$100 billion per year, including a clear burden sharing formula, and in line with needs and priorities identified by developing country Parties in the context of contributing to the achievement of the purpose as defined in Article 2 of this Agreement. It shall take into account an equitable regional distribution of financial resources and a gender sensitive approach, and include the implementation of Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention.”

     The agreement will also see technology transfer and capacity building for Least Developed Countries including Nigeria from developed countries to help combat the impacts of climate change.

     “Capacity building under this Agreement should enhance the capacity and ability of [countries][developing country Parties, in particular countries with the least capacity, such as LDCs and SIDS and African countries[in accordance with the principles and provisions of the Convention]]to take effective climate change action, including, inter alia, to implement adaptation and mitigation actions, and facilitate technology development,

    dissemination and deployment, access to climate finance, relevant aspects of education, training and public awareness, and the transparent, timely and accurate communication of information.

     In the overall analysis, world leaders seem to have moved many steps ahead of saving the world from carbon emissions by an ambitious move to curb global warming below the 2 degree bench mark. According to Germana Canzi, senior international analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), the negotiations have moved forward.

     “The French Presidency has done a very good job in moving negotiations forwards and ensuring there is positive momentum towards a deal after the ambition generated by global leaders last week.

     “Ministers have clearly made huge progress in the last few days, but there are still issues to be resolved, including on the long-term goal that is ultimately needed to solve climate change.

     “Many countries have come into negotiations recognizing that a clean energy transition and a decoupling of emissions from economic growth are underway already, but Paris could be a key accelerator towards the end of the fossil fuel age.”

     According to Patrick Cage, Coordinator of the ParisAgreement.org media platform, the draft text revealed continued political will from the countries. “Our analytic demonstrate the progress being made towards a final universal Paris Agreement. Countries support of the presidency to develop a new text revealed continued political will and signaled positive momentum in crafting what may become the largest environmental agreement of our lifetime.”

     But Kaisa Kosonen of Greenpeace said the agreement has imprints from the oil companies. “Some of the words in this text are smeared with the fingerprints of the oil-producing states. It’s a mix of the good, the bad and the ugly, but we’ve got three days to force the worst stuff out and get a decent deal. It’s crunch-time now, it’s going be hard, but there’s a lot still to fight for. It’s good that a temperature goal of 1.5 degrees C is still there,” she said.

     The draft shows a progress from the 1,609 open brackets and 228 Options in the pre-COP Nov 10th draft text to 366 open brackets and 47 Options.

  • Our new focus for developing Osun is agric – Aregbesola

    Our new focus for developing Osun is agric – Aregbesola

    • International Breweries to support Osun through IGR

    The Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has said that his administration’s ‎new focus for development will be agriculture, solid mineral development and industrialisation‎.

    The Governor stated this at the commissioning of the new effluent treatment plant and expansion project of the International Breweries PLC in Ilesa.

    This was just as the company promised to do its best in ensuring compliance with payment of taxes to boost Osun’s drive for internally generated revenue.

    Aregbesola noted that, given the falling price of oil and diminishing revenue from the oil sector, the state is already looking beyond oil for revenue, sustenance and meeting her obligations to fulfilling his electoral promises.

    He commended the company for ‎its vision and forthrightness of the founder, the late Dr. Lawrence Omole and managers of the company for complying with international best practices and the aptness of the commissioning of effluent treatment plant coinciding with the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris, France.

    Aregbesola said: “Our new focus is agriculture, solid mineral development and industrialisation. This indeed should be the focus of the wise who is thinking beyond the financial catastrophe that befell this nation since 2013 on account of falling revenue from the Federation Accounts.”

    Aregbesola also lauded the company for increasing her presence and acceptability, which has translated to increase in market share of the brewery.

    “I commend you. But you must do more, not just to dominate your immediate environment but to spread to other regions as well and ultimately make your brands international by venturing outside the country. On our part, we will continue to support you and help to realise your vision to expand,” he added.

    The Governor stated that concerns for the environment have been an issue since the industrial revolution and the emergence of cities, noting that the fallout of industrialisation is pollution of the environment from industrial and household wastes.

    ‎He therefore described the impression that environmental friendliness is mutually incompatible with development as false, saying, if the right measures are adopted, there will be sustainable development.

    He enjoined other industrial concerns in the state to emulate IBL Plc which is complying with international best practices.

    Governor Aregbesola added that it is the dream of his government that an industrial hub develops around where allied industries that support you or feed off your operations can develop, prime one of which is agriculture and allied industries.

    He said “In October, we signed an MOU with a Chinese consortium to start an agriculture and industrial park in Osun which will be cited in Ilesa. Last month, we also signed an agreement with the IITA to start agriculture demonstration farm and research centre at Orile Owu,” the governor emphasised.

    Earlier in his remark, the Chairman Board of Directors, International Breweries Plc, Ilesa, Otunba Micheal Daramola, commended the state government for its unflinching support towards the growth and development of the company.

    He extolled Governor Aregbesola for keeping to the promises he made in 2013, saying the MoU signed between the company and the state government has yielded positive results and tremendous impact in the lives of the citizens of the state.

    Enumerating some of the organization’s achievements, Otunba Daramola said the company has been a job provider and development partner to the state.

    He disclosed that N1.4billion was expended on waste management in the state, while N1.2 was spent on several projects, as the company equally spent N1.2billion on the new road and new pipeline recently installed and commissioned for use.

    Daramola said over N4.8 billion has been expended so far on the new effluent treatment and water pipeline projects, promising that the company would not relent in its efforts to support the train of development in the state.

    He described the present administration as being supportive, saying that the company’s relationship with current government has been very seamless.

    He said: “The main focus of this company is to ensure that we effect real change and transformation of our immediate environment and the state as a whole for meaningful development and positive improvement.

    “We are doing everything to assist the government by empowering the youths through different programmes targeted to reduce the scourge of unemployment.

    “Over 120 youths have been successfully selected and financially assisted on running capital to start both small and medium scale businesses.

    In his address, the Chief Operating Officer of the company, Mr. Andrew Ross, said the newly installed Effluent Treatment Plant and Water Pipeline projects were first of its kind in the South-west, saying it remains a milestone for economic sustainability.

    He commended the state government for its support, saying its continued cooperation had provided a seamless improvement, growth and development to both the company and the state government.

    He promised that the company was ready to assist the government at improving its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by fulfilling its quota on regular tax payment.

    Ross stressed further that the company was committed to offering Nigerians world class products, saying its mission was to be the best beverage company in Nigeria.

    “The Effluent Treatment Plant and Water Pipeline we are commissioning today is very environmental friendly because it emits clean water.

    “This project is of world class standard and this is so because our company is ever ready and committed to world class products that, is why our company has been progressing geometrically.

    The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, commended the company for the introduction of modern technology into its operation just as he saluted the efforts of the management and staff of the company in its bid to realize the dream of the organization.

  • Nigeria is committed to emission reduction says Minister

    Nigeria is determined to reduce hydro carbon emissions in 2030 by 20 percent rising to 45 percent with the support of the international community. The country is also committed to an economic transformation that will put green growth at the core.

     Minister of Environment, Mrs. Anima Muhammed on Tuesday made the declaration at a High Level Meeting of Ministers at the 21st session of the Conference of Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) holding in Paris, France.

    Muhammed said Nigeria is ready to take actions that will address the global climate change. Some of these actions are already embedded in Nigeria’s Intentional Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) which is an instrument used by countries to make pledges on how to reduce carbon emission.

    The minister said Nigeria will are reduce emissions by 20% while the country will reduce emissions by 45% with the help of the international communities providing finance and technical help. The Minister told world leaders that Nigeria is aware of the disastrous effect of climate change a point well made during the 2012 flooding that displaced more than 2.1 million Nigerians.

    She said the Lake Chad in the Northeast of the country is no longer  more than 10 % of its original size leaving millions of people who depended on it for their livelihood in poverty.

    Muhammed: “Our renewed urgency comes from recognition of the grave social, economic and environmental threats that climate change poses to our country. Climate change impacts are already threatening the livelihoods of our people. The devastating floods the country suffered in 2012 displaced more than 2.1 million Nigerians are a stark reminder of our vulnerability.

    “Furthermore, we are acutely aware of how climate variability can aggravate social unrest and provide a breeding ground for conflict and mass migration. For example, Lake Chad in the North East of our country is today a mere 10% of its original size, having shrunk from 25,000 sq. km to barely 2,500 sq. km in 25 years and livelihoods have been lost thus exacerbating poverty.”

    She reinstated Nigeria’s position on climate justice to achieve a human-centered approach towards safeguarding the rights of the most vulnerable including women and children.

    “Paris must give us an agreement that will equitably promote climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience based on effective means of implementation through adequate financing, technology transfer and capacity development.

    “Developed countries have a further responsibility of taking the lead in emission reductions, and also to fulfill obligations to provide finance, technology and capacity to developing countries in support of their own mitigation and adaptation obligations,” she said.

  • Nigeria cannot stop crude extraction for renewable energy, says Ayade

    Nigeria cannot stop crude extraction for renewable energy, says Ayade

    The Cross River state governor, Prof. Ben Ayade on Tuesday described calls by some developed countries for an end to fossil fuel extraction as a mitigative action against climate change as harmful to the Nigerian economy.

    Ayade spoke at the sidelines of the ongoing 21st Conference of Parties to the United Nation’s  Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) holding in Paris France. The governor who is also the President of African Governors Forum on Climate Change said use of renewable energy must follow the pace of development by developing nations whose economy depends on oil.

    Ayade’s position comes in great contrast to that of many developed countries that have canvassed for an end to fossil fuel extraction. Also, many civil society organizations have identified ‘big oil’ as a primary cause of climate change.

    But Ayade, who is also a Professor of Environmental Science said without alternatives, Nigeria would continue to develop her fossil fuel economy but with controlled measure. This he said would ensure that those who depend on the oil would continue to be protected without the huge exposure of the atmosphere to hydro carbon.

    “Renewable energy is not the way for Africans at this point in time, renewable energy means put an end to the sale of your hydro carbon, it means Nigeria should stop exporting crude oil, but they are busy doing research, inventing technology using solar energy and wind power. When all of that happens, when the oil price goes down, when you stop producing oil, what are you going to use as an alternative? The misbalancing of the livelihood, what is the alternative to that? Renewable energy must follow with development, it must follow with technology, Africa cannot be in a haste to adopt renewable technology,” Ayade said.

    The governor decried the attitude by African countries where everything adopted in the West is copied without adequate reflection whether it works for the African environment. “We must go in pace with our own technology at our pace and that is the problem we have also taken into politics. We practice presidential system of government that is being practiced by advanced western world who have 200 years of democracy,” he said.

    Explaining further, the governor explained that taking the hydro carbon out of the soil is necessary to avoid natural disasters. “When you talk about renewable energy, it is complaining against the economy of developing countries. Don’t forget, as we refuse to take off the hydro carbon, geothermal pressure occurs in the sub soil and in the span of years, volcanic eruptions will naturally occur. So you need to actually take them out

    “You must have controlled utilization and the focus will be if you are taking off hydrocarbon can you plant more trees particularly carnivorous species like pines and oak trees that have the capacity to take off the carbon dioxide. I would rather have you use fossil fuel with mitigate measures than to cap it and focus on renewable energy. While that technology works for them, it is harmful for our economy,” he said.

    The governor decried the beggarly attitude of African countries saying Africa has a key resource in her forests which must be developed to conserve carbon.

    Ayade said: “As Africans, we must shut our doors and reinvent ourselves; adaptation is not the way to go because it is adjusting yourself to live with the situation, mitigation is the way to go and when you are dealing with mitigation, the focus would have been planting more trees, seeing how you can go for greener technology.

    “But I ask you as we come here for COP21 what is Africa’s position, what have we brought to the negotiation table, we cannot continue to play the role of a victim, Africans own the largest tropical rainforest, and we stand at the middle between the West and the East. It is that place that sinks all the carbon dioxide that comes even from the US, Canada, Asia, they all come into Africa.

    “So Africa is the sink, Africa must have a stronger say and have their own pre-COP conference before they come to COP. Africa’s negotiation must be single, firm, clear. Africa cannot come cap in hand always looking for alms. That is what I want to say that Africa must stop coming to the international community to seek funds, we must seek technology, seek equality and relevance, because indeed, it is one of the most blessed continent.”

    Meanwhile, this year’s Calabar festival will have Climate Change as its theme. The governor explained that it is to call attention to the issue of a changing world. “We are using the carnival to create practical solution. I am looking at green police, a massive number of young men and women whose business is to grow new trees and safeguard existing ones,” Ayade said.

  • Nigeria makes strong demands at Climate Change talks

    Nigeria makes strong demands at Climate Change talks

    Nigeria has made strong demands at the ongoing climate change talks in Paris following the submission of her Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) and the ensuing  negotiations between Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

    The INDC are a set of nationally determined contributions which a country intends to make towards the reduction of carbon emission and reduction of climate change. Nigeria submitted her INDC on November 28, 2015.

    Nigeria has also taken the lead in the African negotiating team pushing for strong measure to help developing countries combat and build resilience against the effects of climate change on the continent.

    According to Nigeria’s lead negotiator,  Dr. Adeoye Adejuwon, Nigeria has a strong voice in Africa and has taken a leadership role in the negotiations for the final draft of agreements which would determine the success of the climate change talks in Paris.

    “We are a force to reckon with  and we are very critical to the negotiations, Nigeria would only support a final agreement that would put food on the table of Nigerians, increase our infrastructure, improve power supply and mitigate against the effects of climate change, give us finance to end gas flaring and would be legally binding on all parties,” Adejuwon told The Nation on the sidelines of the negotiations.

    Adejuwon who was also a key part of the team that drafted the INDC said Nigeria has made an unconditional offer to end greenhouse gas emission by 20% by the year 2030. But if given the required assistance, Nigeria will reduce emission by 45% in the same target year.

    “This is one of the most ambitious contributions, if the developed countries can provide the finance and assistance needed we are ready to reduce emission by 45 percent, but our unconditional contribution will be 20 % which is still a very generous offer,” Adejuwon said.

    Also Nigeria has thrown her weight behind a 1.5 degrees ceiling of carbon exposure as against the 2.0 degrees being promoted by many of the developed world. The Nation learnt that from the current voluntary contributions of 158 nations to reducing carbon emission, the best the world would get is 2.7 degree.

    “ That is dangerous for the world and vulnerable countries like Nigeria with our 853 kilometers stretch of coastal line will be in great danger,” Adejuwon revealed.

    Meanwhile, negotiations for the final draft of the Paris agreements.

  • Buhari: climate change threatening food security in Nigeria

    Buhari: climate change threatening food security in Nigeria

    •Fed Govt plans to cut greenhouse gas emission by 45 per cent

    THE adverse effects of climate change are posing a threat to food security in Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari said yesterday.

    He noted that extreme  flooding and drought were on the increase.

    Buhari, who spoke at the ongoing Conference of Parties 21 (COP21) in Paris, France, said such factors have resulted in the destruction of many economic and social structures.

    Linking the insurgency in the Northeast and climate change in the country, he said they have resulted in the drying up of the Lake Chad, which have deprived many communities of their means of livelihood.

    He told world leaders who gathered at the event that they had a great chance to save the planet by coming up with binding resolutions for sustainable development.

    Buhari advised the international community to scale up their commitment to ensure a successful outcome and contribute to transforming the world through sustainable development.

    He said: “Like many countries, Nigeria continues to witness the adverse effects of climate change in all its ramifications. Presently, we are reeling under the challenges of climate change as the frequency and intensity of extreme events like floods and drought are on the increase.

    “These challenges have resulted in the destruction of many economic and social structures and more worryingly, threatening our national food production and security.

    “The magnitude of insurgency Nigeria is facing cannot be completely explained away without taking cognisance of the threat of climate change. Without a doubt, climate change is threatening not only the sustainable development of our social and economic activities, but also the totality of human existence in our country as in other parts of the world.

    “At the sub-regional level, we are saddled with the challenge of the drying up of the Lake Chad Basin, which is resulting in the total wipe out of livelihoods of many communities surrounding this trans-boundary natural resource.”

    He added: “Regrettably, the world is leaving behind millions of people who depend on the lake for their survival. The Government of Nigeria welcomes the Lake Chad Development and Climate Resilience Plan, and the Lake Chad Basin Commission and international partners for designing this climate-based Plan.

    “In all, the experience of countries sharing the Lake Chad further illustrates the mutual challenge we face today and which must be collectively addressed without further delay.”

    For the potential of Paris Agreement on Climate Change to be meaningful and achieve its objectives and eventually become universal in nature and scope, he said that it must draw extensively on the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.

    He said: “Indeed, for the agreement to be durable, it must recognise not only the emission right, but also the survival rights of the citizens of developing countries.

    “The inadequacies of the existing climate change treaties, the Conventions and its Protocol, constitute the driving force propelling parties to reach another climate change agreement as the main outcome of this Conference of Parties.”

    The President gave Nigeria’s target on cutting greenhouse emissions arrived at after extensive consultations with stakeholders by up to 45 per cent  by the year 2030.

    He said that the Paris Agreement must be legally binding, all-encompassing and sustainable for it to be universally applicable, result-oriented and in all, effective.

    The conference is being attended by about 150 world leaders.

    He said: “On our part in Nigeria, we undertook an extensive and participatory process of multi-level consultations with a cross section of stakeholders within the different tiers of government towards determining our national contributions to global mitigation reduction.

    “Based on national considerations, Nigeria intends to attain the mitigation reduction objective of 20 per cent unconditional and 45 per cent conditional below the Business as Usual level of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by 2030.

    “It is our expectation that this nationally-determined ambitious target given our national circumstances and developmental requirements will eventually pass the green test.”

     

  • Buhari approves INDC to tackle climate change

    Buhari approves INDC to tackle climate change

    President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the submission of the country’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC) to address climate change to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

    Nigeria’s INDC was approved by the President on November 26 and submitted to the UNFCCC on November 28, ahead of Monday’s opening in Paris of the United Nations Climate Change conference, widely known as COP 21.

    The Federal Government’s policy in the INDC to address climate change, according to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, commits to 20 per cent unconditional and 45 per cent conditional Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) emission reduction post 2020.

    The statement said: “The action plan announced by the Federal Government represents a fair and meaningful contribution to address climate change and equally reaffirms President Buhari’s commitment to an economic transformation which places inclusive, green growth as key priority for this administration.

    “President Buhari was fully aware of the acute threat that climate change poses to Nigeria’s development through flooding, desertification and insecurity, and many of these accrue from weather-related natural disasters.

    “In Paris, the issue of Lake Chad’s current depletion, which has become a cause of international concern, will be major focus of a meeting of the Lake Chad Basin Summit of Heads of State and Government, which President Buhari will attend with Nigeria’s delegation on Tuesday, December 1.

    “The Lake Chad is currently less than 10 per cent of its original size and little of the remaining waters is in Nigeria. Of an estimated 20 million people that lived on the Lake Chad Basin as at 2013, about 11.7 million were in the North Eastern region of Nigeria.

    “Also during the conference in Paris, President Buhari is scheduled to participate in the launching of International Solar Alliance by the Indian Prime Minister and the French President, where he will seek international partnerships to deliver Nigeria’s climate change response.”

  • Ambode for Global African Investment, Climate Change summits

    Ambode for Global African Investment, Climate Change summits

    In furtherance of his administration’s effort to boost foreign direct investment, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode will join other participants at this year’s edition of the Global African Investment Summit taking place in London next week.

    According to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, the Summit will afford the governor the opportunity to intimate willing investors on the various opportunities that abound in the state.

    “With the creation of the Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment, the Governor is leading from the front to ensure that Lagos continues to be the choice destination for investors. This will no doubt create job opportunities for our teeming youths,” Ayorinde said.

    The Governor is also expected to attend the Lagos Investment Roundtable, a business meeting put together by PriceWaterHouseCoopers Global Forum opening in London on Monday.

    The Governor is also billed to attend the Climate Change Summit where about 40 major cities of the world will be represented.

     

  • What UN expects from Climate Change Conference in Paris

    What UN expects from Climate Change Conference in Paris

    For the nearly nine years that I have been Secretary-General, I have travelled the world to the front-lines of climate change, and I have spoken repeatedly with world leaders, business people and citizens about the need for an urgent global response.

    Why do I care so much about this issue?

    First, like any grandfather, I want my grandchildren to enjoy the beauty and bounty of a healthy planet.  And like any human being, it grieves me to see that floods, droughts and fires are getting worse, that island nations will disappear and uncounted species will become extinct.

    As His Holiness Pope Francis and other faith leaders have reminded us, we have a moral responsibility to act in solidarity with the poor and most vulnerable who have done least to cause climate change and will suffer first and worst from its effects.

    Second, as the head of the United Nations, I have prioritized climate change because no country can meet this challenge alone.  Climate change carries no passport; emissions released anywhere contribute to the problem everywhere.  It is a threat to lives and livelihoods everywhere.  Economic stability and the security of nations are under threat.  Only through the United Nations can we respond collectively to this quintessentially global issue.

    The negotiation process has been slow and cumbersome. But we are seeing results.  In response to the UN’s call, more than 166countries, which collectively account for more than 90 per cent of emissions, have now submitted national climate plans with targets. If successfully implemented, these national plans bend the emissions curve down to a projected global temperature rise of approximately 3 degrees Celsius by the end of the century.

    This is significant progress.  But it is still not enough. The challenge now is to move much further and faster to reduce global emissions so we can keep global temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius.  At the same time, we must support countries to adapt to the inevitable consequences that are already upon us.

    The sooner we act, the greater the benefits for all: increased stability and security; stronger, more sustainable economic growth; enhanced resilience to shocks; cleaner air and water; improved health.

    We will not get there overnight.  The climate change conference in Paris is not the end point.  It must mark the floor, not the ceiling of our ambition.  It must be the turning point towards a low-emission, climate-resilient future.

    Around the world, momentum is building.  Cities, businesses and investors, faith leaders and citizens are acting to reduce emissions and build resilience. The responsibility now rests with Governments to conclude a meaningful, binding agreement in Paris that provides clear rules of the road for strengthening global ambition.  For this, negotiators need clear guidance from the top.

    I believe this is forthcoming.  The leaders of the G20, who met earlier this month in Antalya, Turkey, showed strong commitment to climate action.  And more than 120 Heads of State and Government have confirmed their participation in Paris, despite heightened security concerns in the wake of the terrorist attacks.

    I see four essential elements for Paris to be a success: durability, flexibility, solidarity and credibility.

    First is durability.  Paris must provide a long-term vision consistent with a below 2 degrees trajectory, and send a clear signal to markets that the low-carbon transformation of the global economy is inevitable, beneficial and already under way.

    Second, the agreement must provide flexibility so it does not need to be continually renegotiated.  It must be able to accommodate changes in the global economy and strike a balance between the leadership role of developed countries and the increasing responsibilities of developing countries.

    Third, the agreement must demonstrate solidarity, including through financing and technology transfer for developing countries.  Developed countries must keep their pledge to provide $100 billion a year by 2020 for adaptation and mitigation alike.

    Fourth, an agreement must demonstrate credibility in responding to rapidly escalating climate impacts.  It must include regular five year cycles for governments to assess and strengthen their national climate plans in line with what science demands.  Paris must also include transparent and robust mechanisms for measuring, monitoring and reporting progress.

    The UN stands fully ready to support countries in implementing such an agreement.

    A meaningful climate agreement in Paris will build a better today – and tomorrow.  It will help us end poverty. Clean our air and protect our oceans. Improve public health.  Create new jobs and catalyze green innovations.  It will accelerate progress towards all of the Sustainable Development Goals. That is why I care so deeply about climate change.

    My message to world leaders is clear: success in Paris depends on you.  Now is the time for common sense, compromise and consensus.  It is time to look beyond national horizons and to put the common interest first.  The people of the world – and generations to come – count on you to have the vision and courage to seize this historic moment.

    The writer is Secretary-General of the United Nations

     

    [news_in_pics style=”2″ display=”tag” tag=”UN” count=”6″ show_more=”on” show_more_type=”link”]

  • Solidarity for a water wise world

    Solidarity for a water wise world


    Global leaders gathered in Stockholm in August to find solutions to increasingly decreasing global access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene. Assistant editor, Seun Akioye who was at the conference reports

    There were many questions that dominated discussions at the recently concluded World Water Week (WWW), organized by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) in Stockholm, Sweden. Should water be free, how do we balance the provision of affordable water supply against the notion of water as human rights and what is the relationship between water and climate change?
    The WWW which has been organized every year celebrated its 25th anniversary this year, it was a milestone conference according to Torgny Holmgren, the Executive Director of SIWI who acknowledged that there is a greater awareness about the importance and the central role water plays in development. That informed the theme for this year’s conference: “Water for Development.”
    The United Nations recognized this fact when in drafting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which is aimed to build on the global achievements of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), proposed in goal six that : “ By 2030, universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all, and access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all and end open defecation, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and those in vulnerable positions.”
    Holmgren said the role of water in the development of nations cannot be underestimated as it is the foundation for all aspect of human progress. “From the Horn of Africa, over the Sahel, to São Paulo, California and China, people’s perseverance is being tested. We can no longer take a steady water supply for granted. The many local water crises today combine into a severe global water situation of great concern to all of us,” Holmgren said at the opening plenary.

    A grim statistic
    There were grim statistics relating to water supply especially in sub Saharan Africa and Asia. According to the United Nations World Water Development Report 2015, around 748 million people globally still lack access to improved water supply while water demand for manufacturing is expected to rise by400 percent between 2000 and 2050 globally.
    Further to this is the growing concern about population growth and rural urban movement which has been a major contributor to water stress. A higher rate of urbanization leads to increased competition between agricultural, industrial and municipal water use. Growing cities in Africa and Asia will need to provide services to 70 million more people each year for the next 20 years further increasing the challenges of providing access to water supply and sanitation.
    Adding to this depressing news is the fact that groundwater supply is diminishing with an estimated 20 percent of the world’s aquifers currently over-exploited and 52 countries are currently under water stress.
    Water and climate change
    For the scientists, water experts, policy makers and activists, the most critical aspect of discussions at the conference was getting the water agenda into discussions at the Climate Change, Conference of Parties 21 which will hold in Paris, France in December. According to Holmgren, water is so critical to climate change that it is a shock it is yet to be on the policy agenda of climate change talks.
    “ Water needs to be part of climate negotiations because the larger impact of climate change will be felt through water. Focus should be changing from energy to water and when we look at the Sustainable Development Goals, we see that water is related to many of the goals. Water efficiency should be as common as energy efficiency,” he said.
    The conference has reasons to be worried about climate change and water. Rising sea levels, ocean acidification, progression of drought all associated with climate change has negative impact on water supply.
    At the opening plenary, the President of Marshal Islands, Christopher Loeak broke the hearts of the participants when he painted a picture of the wreckage climate change has caused in his country. “ There is no issue in the world that is closer to my heart than the issue of water. We are a small country quite literarily contemplating a future where we are being wiped off the world map. Yet, as the leader of my country, I cannot look my people in the eye and in good conscience say that everything will be ok, when I know the world continues to travel down a destructive part,” Loeak said.
    The people understood the enormity of Loeak’s statement. Marshall Islands consists of more than a thousand small islands sitting at an average of two metres above sea level. Loeak said water surrounds his country and sustains its economy with fishing being the main source of income. Ironically, the water that sustains the Marshallese economy is now threatening to its very existence.
    For Karin Lexen, director of the WWW, integrated water resource management is central to the implementation of the SDGs. “ Water scarcity posses significant risk to every sector and efforts to mitigate climate change needs to be addressed with water issues, implementing climate change policies will involve increasing water infrastructure,” she said.
    Prof. Benedito Braga, Secretary of State for Sanitation and Water resources for the state of Sao Paulo Brazil said while the impacts of climate change will be felt to the greatest degree in water, its adaptation should be central to t he climate debate. He urged the conference to be more focused on the Action Day during COP 21 to press home demands for the inclusion of water in climate debate.

    African governments and Water Policy failure
    There are few cheering news coming from the African continent however, this was the submission of African Ministers of Water at the Africa Focus Day which had the theme: “ Water Resources and Sanitation Management in Africa.” The Ministers said Africa has failed to meet its objectives in terms of water and the MDGs. Already about 488million people still lack access to sanitation and 200million do not have safe clean water. According to Amadou Faye, Minister for Hydraulic and Sanitation, Senegal, Africa must establish a harmonized monitoring and reporting system for water sector.
    Hon. Eugene Wamalwa, Minister for Water and Irrigation, Kenya told The Nation : “ What we want to do is persuade our government to invest more in water and irrigation sector. From Abuja to Maputo declaration, we want to put aside 15percent of our national budget on health for water.”
    Wamalwa said more investment in water will lead to great savings in the health and security sector. “The time has come to walk the talk and direct the focus on water,” he said. However, the issue of water pricing remains a major debate among the stakeholders with consensus favouring providing infrastructure for water management, creating innovations that would reduce water use and support entrepreneurs that will create new technology.
    The general impression from the participants is towards the provision of affordable clean water . “Water is a right, but we need to pay for our right,” says one participant. According to Wamalwa, for water to be available, it must be paid for. “ Nothing is free or should be free, we must pay and make it affordable and accessible through the development of our infrastructures, this is not about free water, but affordable water.”
    Walk for water, mingle and dance and other events
    On Monday August 24, 2015, Stockholm Water Prize winner Rajendra Singh led delegates to the conference on a two kilometre walk from the City Conference Centre to the City Hall. The walk which was termed World Water Walk for Peace is to” raise awareness so that young people can learn how to pay respect to water, love it and understand the relation between human health and water health,” Singh said.
    But if the walk appears too strenuous for you, the night of mingle and dancing would be the perfect remedy. A stand in band named “The Visitors” which sings only songs from Swedish Pop group ABBA treated the delegates to an unforgettable night of music.
    Nigerian delegates to the conference include officials from the Ministry of Water Resources, members of the academia and water activists. Mrs. Temitope Adeniji Adele, Deputy Director, Water Supply said Nigeria will take the matter of the SDG more seriously as water is highlighted. “ We need to develop an indicator that will measure drinking water and sanitation, we will be going back home with a view to take charge of the whole water sector,” she said.
    Also Adeyinka Oludiran, Programme Director Wateraid Nigeria said participation at the conference should help deepen knowledge especially for policy makers and take charge of policies and programmes in Nigeria’s water sector.
    For Babatope Babalobi, a water activist, about 60 percent of patients in sub Saharan Africa are suffering water borne diseases. “ So if we can provide access to safe water in Nigeria, incidences of water borne diseases should be prevented and we can depopulate our hospitals up to 60 percent.”
    The meeting ended with much optimism which is captured in the goals set by Holmgren: “ It is my goal that in 25 years from now, we will no longer talk about global water crisis.”