Michael Zammit, ex Executive Secretary of the UN Convention on Climate Change, gave a presentation(See Presentation) that invites us to reflect on climate change in our planet as a result of centuries of population and economic growth based on the use of fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas). Stating that global warming is unequivocal and reaches about 1 ° C. In this regard, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has reported that concentrations of greenhouse gases, especially CO2, are the highest in 850 thousands of years, so if decisive actions are not taken in the coming 10 to 15 years, it is likely that global warming will have increased by 2 ° C by 2050, a level that the international community agreed on not exceeding.
He also mentioned that the United Nations has promoted the organization of international conventions to discuss and address global warming issue; however, experience has shown difficulties in the negotiations when it comes to commitment from the countries for this cause, because each country has different economic interests and priorities.
Nevertheless, he stated that there are positive economic messages indicating that countries have the opportunity to create economic growth and reduce the risks of climate change, thanks to structural and technological changes. Aditionally, adopting measures today will be cheaper than fixing the damage caused by climate change.
As part of the presentation, Michael Zammit proposed to reflect on the following issues:
- Democratic dilemma: Democracy is characterized by politicians concerned about adopting short-term measures allowing them to continue being in the Government in the next elections, but there are no national consensus or actions representing the interests of future generations that do not currently have their say.
- There is a new debate on the percentage of existing and accessible reserves that should remain in the subsoil for future generations, on how that would affect the business perspective and, if possible, the technological innovation extends the sustainable life of fuels fossils.
- Climate change is a threat against poverty reduction and sustainable development, so this problem should not be addressed in isolation.
Finally, our guest speaker stated that there is a war between two fronts: climate and development. However, a way for both fronts to win must be found.
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