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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In what ways could Italy’s investment in Africa contribute to global climate resilience and sustainable development?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Rossi, Environmental Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Dr. Rossi, thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent statements made by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at COP29 in Baku. She emphasized the need for a “pragmatic approach” to climate action. What do you think she meant by this?
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. Prime Minister Meloni’s call for a pragmatic approach reflects a shift away from ideological debates that often dominate climate discussions. She is advocating for practical solutions that can effectively address climate challenges while ensuring economic and social sustainability. This is particularly important as we navigate the complexities of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
**Editor:** She also mentioned that Italy allocates a significant portion of its Climate Fund to Africa. Why is this significant?
**Dr. Rossi:** Italy’s commitment to directing resources to Africa is crucial for several reasons. First, many African nations are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, and they need support to build resilience. Secondly, investing in renewable energy and sustainable practices in these regions can create economic opportunities and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. This aligns well with global goals to enhance energy efficiency and promote sustainable development, especially highlighted in the recent commitments from COP28 to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 [[1](https://www.wipo.int/web-publications/green-technology-book-energy-solutions-for-climate-change/en/executive-summary.html)].
**Editor:** Meloni mentioned the concept of “technological neutrality.” Can you explain this idea?
**Dr. Rossi:** Technological neutrality suggests that the government should not favor one technology over another, allowing for a diverse range of solutions to emerge in the energy market. This is essential because the path to decarbonization will require a mix of technologies, including existing fossil fuel solutions, while developing new renewable options. By remaining neutral, Italy can support innovation and adapt its energy strategy based on what is most effective, rather than adhering to a one-size-fits-all approach.
**Editor:** With the urgency of climate change, do you think Italy’s approach is sufficient?
**Dr. Rossi:** While a pragmatic approach is welcome, it will be essential for Italy to set clear, ambitious targets and actions alongside these statements. The structure and distribution of funding, effective collaboration with multilateral institutions, and an emphasis on innovation will be key to transforming rhetoric into impactful policy. It’s also vital that public support aligns with these efforts to ensure a comprehensive and sustained approach to climate action.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights on this important topic. It is clear that as nations gather to address climate issues, the balance between pragmatism and ambition will be critical in shaping a sustainable future.
**Dr. Rossi:** Absolutely, and thank you for discussing these vital issues. It’s through collaboration and informed policy-making that we can hope to achieve significant progress on climate change.
