We need a “pragmatic approach” and not an “ideological” one if we want to protect the environment. Thus Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni spoke this morning in Baku, Azerbaijan, on the occasion of Cop29, the 29th UN Conference on climate change. “Italy intends to continue to do its part. We already allocate a large part of the over four billion euros of the Climate Fund to the African continent and we will continue to support initiatives such as the Green Climate Fund and the Loss and Damage Fund, as well as promote the involvement of multilateral development banks. It is equally a priority that the decarbonization process takes into consideration the sustainability of our production and social systems theme risks leading us astray towards success. The right path is that of technological neutrality, because currently there is no single alternative to supplying from fossil fuels”, stated the Prime Minister.
“We need a balanced energy mix to improve the transition process. We must use all available technologies. Not only renewables, but also gas, biofuels, hydrogen, CO2 capture and, in the future, nuclear fusion which could produce clean, safe and unlimited energy. Italy is at the forefront of fusion nuclear energy”, explained Meloni. “This summit, for which I thank the Azerbaijani presidency, is called to give further impetus to the commitment to limit the increase in global temperature to within 1.5 degrees,” he said. At COP28 in Dubai “we set ourselves ambitious objectives: to triple the capacity to generate renewable energy in the world and double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency by 2030. To achieve these objectives, everyone’s collaboration is needed – starting from the main greenhouse gas emitters – as well as adequate financial support”.
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How can technological neutrality in decarbonization be effectively implemented in Italy’s climate policy?
**Interview with Marco Lombardi, Climate Policy Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Marco. We just heard Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s remarks at COP29 in Baku, where she emphasized the need for a pragmatic approach to environmental protection. What are your thoughts on her stance?
**Marco Lombardi:** Thank you for having me. Prime Minister Meloni’s call for a pragmatic approach resonates with many in the climate policy community. The shift away from purely ideological perspectives is crucial, especially when dealing with complex global issues like climate change.
**Interviewer:** She mentioned Italy’s significant funding for the African continent. How important is international financial support in addressing climate change?
**Marco Lombardi:** It’s extremely important. Climate change disproportionately affects developing countries, and financial support helps them build resilience and implement sustainable practices. Italy’s commitment of over four billion euros demonstrates a recognition of this need and sets a precedent for other nations.
**Interviewer:** Meloni also referred to the concept of technological neutrality in decarbonization. Can you explain what that means in practical terms?
**Marco Lombardi:** Technological neutrality means that we shouldn’t favor one energy source over another in our efforts to decarbonize. Instead, we should support a range of technologies, including renewables, carbon capture, and even transitional fossil fuels, as we work towards cleaning up our energy systems. It acknowledges that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
**Interviewer:** what challenges do you see ahead for Italy and other countries in implementing these pragmatic strategies?
**Marco Lombardi:** The biggest challenge will be balancing immediate energy needs with long-term sustainability goals. Political will is critical, and nations must collaborate effectively while overcoming both economic pressures and social resistance to change. It’s a delicate balancing act, but it is achievable with the right strategies and support in place.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Marco, for your insights. It seems we’re in for a compelling journey as countries navigate these complex issues.
**Marco Lombardi:** Thank you! It’s an important conversation, and I hope for constructive actions moving forward.
