DUBAI: Pope Francis called on leaders at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai on Saturday to take decisive action in saving the planet and make the summit a turning point in the fight against climate change.
In a speech read by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, as the Pope was unable to attend due to illness, Francis emphasized the need for a clear and tangible political will to accelerate the ecological transition. He urged leaders to prioritize energy efficiency, renewable energy, and ending the use of fossil fuels, while also emphasizing the importance of education to reduce society’s dependency on these harmful energy sources.
With his 2015 encyclical “Laudato si” (Praise Be), the Pope has consistently highlighted the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability. Last month, he published another text on climate challenges titled “Laudate Deum” (Praise the Lord), in which he called on developed economies to abandon fossil fuels.
During the COP28 conference, more than 20 nations, including the United States, expressed their support for tripling nuclear energy as a means to reduce emissions. They argued that nuclear power plays a crucial role in achieving carbon neutrality by mid-century. However, the use of nuclear power remains controversial due to concerns about safety and nuclear waste disposal.
US climate envoy John Kerry clarified that nuclear energy is not intended to replace all other energy sources but is necessary to reach the goal of net zero emissions by 2050. The signatories of the declaration include countries such as Britain, France, South Korea, Ukraine, and the United Arab Emirates. Notably, nuclear powers Russia and China did not sign up.
As leaders gather at the COP28 conference, additional commitments are expected, including increased deployment of renewable energy and efforts to reduce methane emissions. The urgency of the situation is evident as smoggy skies in Dubai serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the world.
The Pope’s call to action, along with the support for nuclear energy, highlights the need for global collaboration and innovative solutions to combat climate change. It is crucial for leaders to prioritize the ecological transition and work towards a sustainable future for generations to come.
Source: The Manila Times
