The International Renewable Energy Agency has revealed that increasing renewables to 36 percent of the global energy mix by 2030 would generate about half the emissions reductions needed to prevent global warming rising above 2 degrees celsius.
Following the UN Climate Change Summit in Paris last year, ambitious targets were set by the international community in efforts to combat climate change on a global scale.
Irena Pushes for Renewable Solution to Emission Reduction
At a meeting in Abu Dhabi last week, the International Renewable Energy Agency (Irena) revealed that increasing wind and solar power sources to 36 percent would bring the goal of reducing greenhouse gases significantly closer.
The meeting was the first major global gathering since Paris in December last year, with the main purpose to maintain the momentum of global climate action agreed upon by more than 200 countries late last year.
Of the 187 countries who put forward carbon reduction plans during the Paris summit, the consensus reached has been met with skepticism from many around the world.
With the UN’s tumultuous history setting precedent for the Paris Climate Conference, have lead many to believe that countries will try to avoid meeting individual commitments.
Irena, however, has taken a more optimistic outlook suggesting goals such as their 36 carbon emission reduction are still within reach.
General Director of Irena, Adnan Amin, said in a statement “The Paris agreement set a long-term vision for the deep reduction of global emissions and the need to decarbonise the energy sector.
“After the Paris climate conference in December, global focus is shifting from negotiation to action,” he added.
While taking on great responsibility themselves for progressing climate action as much as possible following the Paris Climate Conference, Irena is increasing its pressure on global leaders and stakeholders around the world, emphasising that collective action is the only solution.
“Leadership at all levels is key to achieve and surpass the emission reduction targets set forth in the Paris Agreement. Tonight’s even provided a platform to engage in dialogue, build momentum, and chart a course for a renewable energy future” said Amin.
Climate Action Could Boost Global GDP by $1.3 Trillion
Irena’s report also found that increasing renewables two fold by 2030 would increase global GDP by up to 1.1 percent – about $1.3 trillion, providing jobs for over 24 million people worldwide.
Irena’s study Renewable Energy To Solve 2030 Emission Reduction Targets_ _revealed last week that increasing renewable energy worldwide doesn’t just have positive environmental impacts.
Adnan Amin said Irena’s study “provided compelling evidence that achieving the needed energy transition would not only mitigate climate change, but also stimulate the economy, improve human welfare and boost employment worldwide”.
Photo courtesy of Ed Suominen
