Pacific leaders adopt renewable energy targets

Pacific Island leaders on 5 September called for action on climate change and reaffirmed the key role renewable energy in any viable plan to cut carbon-emissions. The Majuro Declaration, adopted at the conclusion of a summit of regional leaders in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, underlines “the need for urgent action at all levels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions”.

While noting the imminent climatic threat, especially to low-lying atoll states, Pacific leaders welcomed “the significant benefits that come with our transition to renewable, clean and sustainable energy sources.”  In addition to signing the declaration, 15 countries and territories across the Pacific made commitments to specific renewable energy targets in their energy policies.

IRENA’s Director-General, Adnan Z. Amin, spoke at a panel of experts on climate leadership, which helped to shape the Majuro Declaration.