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 energy solutions influence global cooperation on climate action?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Rossi, Environmental Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Good morning, Dr. Rossi. Thank you for joining us today. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently spoke at COP29 in Azerbaijan, emphasizing the need for a “pragmatic approach” to environmental protection. What are your thoughts on her message?
**Dr. Rossi:** Good morning! Prime Minister Meloni’s focus on a pragmatic, rather than ideological, approach is quite refreshing. It recognizes the complexities of environmental issues, particularly in balancing economic development and environmental sustainability.
**Editor:** She mentioned Italy’s commitment to allocating over four billion euros of the Climate Fund to Africa and supporting initiatives like the Green Climate Fund. How significant is this support in the context of global climate action?
**Dr. Rossi:** It’s significant. Africa faces unique challenges, and investments in climate resilience are critical for sustainable development on the continent. Allocating funds to these initiatives not only supports vulnerable communities but also fosters global cooperation in tackling climate change.
**Editor:** The Prime Minister also highlighted the need for a decarbonization process that is mindful of the sustainability of production systems. How can countries balance decarbonization with economic needs?
**Dr. Rossi:** That’s indeed a tricky balance. Countries need to adopt a “just transition” framework that considers the social impact of decarbonization. Engaging with stakeholders such as workers and businesses will be crucial to ensure the transition is equitable and economically viable.
**Editor:** Lastly, she mentioned “technological neutrality” and the absence of a single alternative to fossil fuels. Can you elaborate on that concept for our readers?
**Dr. Rossi:** Technological neutrality suggests that we should not favor one energy solution over another without considering the context. Various regions and economies may rely on different energy sources, and a mix of solutions—such as renewables, nuclear, and, in some cases, cleaner fossil fuel technologies—might be necessary to meet energy demands while reducing emissions.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights. It seems that pragmatic and collaborative approaches are essential for effective climate action moving forward.
**Dr. Rossi:** Absolutely. Addressing climate change requires all hands on deck, with a focus on practical solutions that support both the environment and people’s livelihoods. Thank you for having me!