By Dr. Syeda Sultana Rizvi
The COP 28 witnessed the achievement of a fossil fuel phase-out agreement, committing the parties to attain net-zero emissions by 2050 through a just, orderly, and equitable transition from fossil fuels to clean and renewable sources in energy systems. This transition not only addresses the urgent need to mitigate climate change but also proves crucial in fostering economic growth, ensuring energy security, and driving innovation.
Climate change is closely linked to global warming resulting from greenhouse gas emissions, primarily attributed to the consumption of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. According to the United Nations, fossil fuels account for over 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90% of all carbon dioxide emissions.
As greenhouse gas emissions blanket the Earth, they trap the sun’s heat, leading to global warming and climate change. The world is now warming faster than at any point in recorded history, causing shifts in weather patterns and disrupting the delicate balance of nature. These changes pose significant risks to human beings and all other forms of life on Earth.
To avert the worst impacts of climate change and preserve a livable planet, scientific evidence calls for limiting global temperature to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Currently, the Earth is already about 1.1°C warmer than it was in the late 1800s, with emissions continuing to rise.
The United Nations has been drawing attention to the protection of planet Earth since the Rio Summit in 1992 through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This international treaty among countries aims to combat “dangerous human interference with the climate system” by stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.
After more than 23 years of deliberations, gradual progress culminated in the 2015 Paris Agreement. This landmark agreement calls for a 45% reduction in emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050 to limit global warming to no more than 1.5°C. Covering aspects of climate change mitigation, adaptation, and finance, the Paris Agreement sets a net-zero target, requiring cutting greenhouse gas emissions as close to zero as possible, with any remaining emissions re-absorbed by the oceans and forests.
The COP 28 fossil fuel phase-out agreement echoes these commitments, emphasizing a just, orderly, and equitable transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems. Additionally, the agreement calls for a tripling of global renewable energy capacity by 2030 and the acceleration of technologies such as carbon capture and storage.
Transitioning to a net-zero world necessitates replacing polluting coal, gas, and oil-fired power with energy from renewable sources, such as wind or solar. This transition not only addresses the urgent need to mitigate climate change but also fosters economic growth, ensures energy security, and promotes innovation.
- Climate Change Mitigation:
Embracing alternative energy is crucial for mitigating climate change. Traditional energy sources like coal and oil significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, leading to global warming and climate-related disasters. In contrast, renewable energy harnesses power from sources like the sun, wind, and water, emitting minimal to no greenhouse gases. Reducing reliance on fossil fuels can significantly curb carbon emissions, preserving the planet for future generations.
- Sustainable Development:
The shift towards alternative energy sources supports sustainable development. Renewable energy is inherently sustainable as it relies on continuously replenished resources. Unlike finite fossil fuels such as coal and oil, renewables offer a long-term and reliable solution to meet the world’s energy needs. This sustainability ensures meeting current demands without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
- Energy Security:
Diversifying energy sources enhances energy security. Nations heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels are vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and market fluctuations. Investing in alternative energy, often utilizing locally available resources, reduces dependence, making countries more resilient to external shocks. Energy security becomes a cornerstone for national stability and economic growth.
- Economic Growth and Job Creation:
The renewable energy sector is a powerhouse for economic growth and job creation. Governments and industries investing in solar, wind, hydro, and other alternative energy sources create new opportunities for innovation, manufacturing, and project development. The renewable energy sector has proven to be a robust job creator, offering employment opportunities across various skill levels, from technicians and engineers to researchers and project managers.
- Technological Innovation:
The pursuit of alternative energy encourages technological innovation. Researchers and engineers striving to improve the efficiency and affordability of renewable technologies lead to breakthroughs. This innovation benefits not only the energy sector but also has broader applications, spurring advancements in various fields. Investments in alternative energy drive research and development, resulting in new technologies and solutions that can address global challenges beyond energy production.
The importance of alternative energy cannot be overstated in our quest for a sustainable and resilient future. By transitioning away from fossil fuels and embracing renewable sources, we not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also foster economic growth, enhance energy security, and drive technological innovation.
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