Last Updated on Friday, 9 February, 2024 at 10:08 pm by Andre Camilleri
The setting up of a Climate Action Authority has been welcomed by climate experts as an important development in the country’s transition towards a decarbonised economy, steering the country towards its social, economic and environmental transformation, the Energy Ministry said in a statement.
Parliament is currently discussing the Bill setting up the Climate Action Authority, which will be responsible for coordinating and regulating climate action. This regulatory body will seek to ensure effective, economically efficient and consistent efforts towards adaptation and mitigation.
This was discussed during a meeting held by Miriam Dalli, Minister for the Environment, Energy and Regeneration of the Grand Harbour, together with Prof. Simone Borg, Ambassador for Climate Action, marine biologist Prof. Alan Deidun, academics Dr Jonathan Spiteri and Dr Stefano Moncada and David Xuereb, chairperson of MCESD.
“The setting up of the Climate Action Authority should not be seen as complying with external expectations, like those from the EU. It’s an opportunity to improve our socio-economic resilience and global competitiveness,” Minister Miriam Dalli said in her introductory comments.
During the exchange of views, the group agreed that addressing climate change is not only about mitigating risks but also about exploring opportunities for transformation that can benefit our society and economy. The Climate Action Authority was recognised as holding a pivotal role in explaining these opportunities, discussing both the short-term and medium-term risks involved, and highlighting the potential for social and economic growth.
It was emphasised that a comprehensive approach involving the government as a whole was required. Equally important was the need to foster a social dialogue to support this transformation. This, they said, could be reached by engaging all stakeholders, including educating children and training teachers.
The group emphasised that both mitigation and adaptation strategies were important, with good adaptation providing opportunities for good development. “Addressing climate action promises not only improved economic wellbeing but also investing in sustainable alternatives,” Minister Dalli said.
The discussion revolved around the need for a proactive and comprehensive approach to climate action, one that considers economic, social, and environmental dimensions in tandem.
The group agreed that the Climate Action Authority represents an opportunity to align development with climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, ensuring economic growth and social wellbeing in the face of climate challenges.
