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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What are the key benefits of adopting a pragmatic approach to climate action as discussed by Dr. Rossi?
**Interview with a Climate Policy Expert on Pragmatism in Climate Action**
**Host:** Welcome to today’s edition of Green Talks. Joining us is Dr. Elena Rossi, a climate policy expert, to discuss the recent remarks made by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Thank you for being with us, Dr. Rossi.
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. It’s great to be here.
**Host:** Prime Minister Meloni emphasized the need for a pragmatic approach rather than an ideological one in addressing climate change. How significant is this stance in the current global climate discussion?
**Dr. Rossi:** This is a critical point. The climate crisis requires evidence-based solutions that consider the practicalities of implementation. Pragmatism suggests we focus on what works rather than getting caught up in ideological battles. As noted in recent discussions, a more level-headed approach in the policy arena can lead to successful outcomes without causing division or inaction [[1](https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/blog/climate-emergency-pragmatism-and-fatalism-policy-a/)].
**Host:** Meloni mentioned Italy’s commitment to the Climate Fund and support for international initiatives like the Green Climate Fund. How important are these actions for global collaboration on climate issues?
**Dr. Rossi:** Very important. Funding initiatives, especially in developing regions like Africa, is crucial. By allocating significant resources—over four billion euros, as she mentioned—Italy is not only fulfilling its responsibility but is also setting an example for other nations. Collaborative efforts can leverage technological advancements and provide the necessary support to tackle climate impacts effectively [[1](https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/blog/climate-emergency-pragmatism-and-fatalism-policy-a/)].
**Host:** The Prime Minister talked about “technological neutrality.” What does that mean, and why is it relevant in the context of the energy transition?
**Dr. Rossi:** Technological neutrality means allowing different technologies to compete on equal footing without favoring one over another. This is essential because there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Embracing a range of technologies—from renewable sources to transitional methods—can help ensure a smoother and more effective decarbonization process. This approach helps prevent potential pitfalls that could arise from prematurely committing to a single technology or path [[1](https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/blog/climate-emergency-pragmatism-and-fatalism-policy-a/)].
**Host:** As we move forward, what do you see as the biggest challenge in maintaining this pragmatic approach to climate policy?
**Dr. Rossi:** One major challenge will be balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. Pragmatic policies need to consider local economies and social structures; otherwise, they risk alienating communities that depend on traditional industries. Achieving consensus and ensuring that the transition is just will be critical for long-term success [[1](https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/blog/climate-emergency-pragmatism-and-fatalism-policy-a/)].
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that a balanced, pragmatic approach will be essential as we tackle the complex issue of climate change.
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue this important discussion.
**Host:** Stay tuned for more conversations on climate action strategies in future episodes.
