COP27: Achieving net-zero in developing countries possible by 2060 – UN
The UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Climate Ambition and Solutions, Michael Bloomberg, says achieving net zero is possible in developing countries. Speaking at this year's 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference COP27, taking place from 6th to 18th November 2022 in Egypt, Bloomberg said access to expand clean and affordable energy to cut down on carbon emissions is attainable. "We've seen that it's possible to expand access to clean, affordable energy and cut carbon emissions simultaneously." "We've helped to close more than two-thirds of coal plants in the U.S. and put more than half of Europe's on track for retirement and we need to make progress like that all around the world. Doing it and overcoming the hurdles that stand in the way of investment requires partnership across government, business, and philanthropy. It also requires technical assistance and economic and policy analysis the side of energy development that doesn't get much attention but can mean the difference between investment in coal and clean power. That's what we've been providing to a variety of countries worldwide, and expanding our work in Africa, Asia, and Latin America will help more countries develop more clean power faster." On his part, the CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All and Co-Chair of UN-Energy, Damilola Ogunbiyi, said Sustainable Energy for All has already partnered with the Government of Nigeria to develop an Energy Transition Plan that would help spur President Buhari at the COP26 to announce the country's commitment to net-zero by 2060. "I'm excited that through this partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies, we will build on this expertise to expand support to other developing countries as well," "In addition, SEforALL's work along with other partners to scale a robust African carbon market will provide a further boost to unlock much-needed climate finance that will be transformative for the region." The global climate event aims to limit temperature rise by 1.5 degrees Celsius.