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 might Italy’s climate funding initiatives in Africa influence global efforts to combat climate change?
**Interview with Dr. Maria Rossi, Environmental Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Good afternoon, Dr. Rossi, and thank you for joining us. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently addressed the UN Climate Conference in Baku, emphasizing a “pragmatic approach” rather than an ideological one towards environmental protection. What are your thoughts on this shift in focus?
**Dr. Rossi:** Good afternoon! I believe it’s a necessary shift. The environmental challenges we face require practical solutions that can be implemented effectively. An ideological approach often leads to polarization and stalemates, whereas pragmatism can foster collaboration and find common ground.
**Editor:** The Prime Minister also mentioned that Italy is dedicating over four billion euros to climate initiatives, especially in Africa. How significant is this funding, and what impact might it have?
**Dr. Rossi:** That funding is quite significant, especially since it targets the African continent, which is disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing the least to it. Supporting initiatives like the Green Climate Fund can bolster resilience in vulnerable communities and facilitate sustainable development. It’s a strategic investment in global stability.
**Editor:** She also highlighted the importance of technological neutrality. Can you expand on what that means for the decarbonization process?
**Dr. Rossi:** Absolutely. Technological neutrality refers to not favoring any specific technology over another in the transition to a low-carbon economy. This perspective is crucial because it allows for innovation and flexibility. Since there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to energy supply—especially when considering fossil fuels—encouraging a range of technologies can lead to more effective and holistic solutions.
**Editor:** what do you think are the key challenges that lie ahead as countries like Italy work towards these goals?
**Dr. Rossi:** The main challenges include balancing immediate economic needs with long-term sustainability, ensuring equitable access to resources, and overcoming resistance from industries tied to fossil fuels. Additionally, international cooperation and commitment will be critical as climate change is a global issue that transcends borders.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights. It’s clear that navigating climate policy requires careful consideration of various factors, and your expertise is invaluable in this discussion.
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me! It’s a crucial conversation that we need to keep having as we work toward a sustainable future.
