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 does the concept of technological neutrality influence Italy’s energy policies in the context of the global climate crisis?
**Interview with Dr. Maria Rossi, Environmental Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rossi. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently emphasized a “pragmatic approach” to environmental policies during her speech at COP29 in Baku. In your opinion, what does this mean for Italy’s climate strategy?
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. The Prime Minister’s focus on a pragmatic approach suggests a willingness to prioritize effective, actionable solutions over ideological debates. This is crucial, especially as we face significant challenges in addressing climate change. By considering the sustainability of production and social systems, Italy can adopt policies that are not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable.
**Editor:** Meloni also mentioned Italy’s substantial financial commitments to climate initiatives, particularly in Africa. How significant is this funding in the global context of climate change?
**Dr. Rossi:** Italy’s commitment of over four billion euros, particularly towards initiatives like the Green Climate Fund, highlights the necessity of international cooperation in tackling climate change. Funding is vital for mitigating the impacts of climate change in vulnerable regions, and Italy’s involvement shows leadership and solidarity in these efforts.
**Editor:** The Prime Minister spoke about technological neutrality and the need for diverse energy sources. How important is this concept in the transition to renewable energy?
**Dr. Rossi:** Technological neutrality is essential. It acknowledges that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to our energy needs. By embracing a variety of technological solutions—ranging from renewables to possibly transitional fossil fuels—we can create a more resilient and adaptable energy framework. This flexibility will be critical in ensuring energy security while transitioning to a greener economy.
**Editor:** Lastly, what challenges do you foresee as Italy implements these proposed strategies?
**Dr. Rossi:** One of the main challenges will be balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. Stakeholders across various sectors— from industry to communities—must engage in the conversation to ensure that policies are inclusive and equitable. Furthermore, as we promote new technologies, there may be resistance from industries that are heavily reliant on fossil fuels. It will require a concerted effort to navigate these challenges successfully.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Rossi. Your expertise is invaluable as we navigate these critical conversations about climate change.
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential to keep these discussions alive as we work towards a sustainable future.