“To step up the energy transition, we need COP29 to unlock the funds,” says ActionAid on Energy Day
As the world drags its feet on fully committing to and funding the transition from fossil fuel energy to clean energy alternatives, the devastating impacts are felt most acutely by marginalized communities around the world.
Teresa Anderson, the Global Lead on Climate Justice at ActionAid International said;
“To step up the energy transition, we need COP29 to unlock the funds. An ambitious climate finance goal worth trillions of dollars each year will finally help the developing countries already drowning in debt from climate impacts, to afford to scale up renewable energy and leapfrog the fossil fuel era.
It’s important that the new goal on climate finance focuses on grants to governments rather than loans and private finance. Ensuring a just transition in energy isn’t just about replacing technology and can’t just be left up to the private sector. A responsible energy transition must actively involve communities and invest in infrastructure, training, social protections, and sustainable livelihoods.
Agreeing an ambitious new climate finance goal to accelerate the shift away from fossil fuels now will be far, far cheaper than the escalating costs of runaway climate breakdown later.”
Friday Ogezi the Climate Justice Advisor for Liberia and Nigeria at ActionAid International said,
“Every day more than 2.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas are flared in the Niger Delta releasing pollutants that have poisoned water sources, destroyed farmland, and sickened people. The once vibrant community is now a shadow of its former self.
At this COP it is important to ensure that the needs of vulnerable communities are prioritised in energy transition conversations and decisions.
The oil companies have stolen our future. We demand a just transition backed by adequate finance in the form of grants. The time for empty promises is over. It's time for action.”
The experiences of communities in the Niger Delta are a stark reminder of the human cost of fossil fuels. The world must immediately phase out fossil fuels and fund renewable energy solutions.
To contact the ActionAid Press Office, email media-enquiries@actionaid.org or WhatsApp +263776665065.
