Unite against climate change – Mimica

By Adel Fruean 01 March 2019, 12:00AM

European Union (EU) commissioner Neven Mimica has appealed to Samoa and the world to unite in the fight against climate change.

The EU senior official made the appeal during a recent visit to the Fuluasou Substation at Tuanaimato, where he added that Samoa continues to lead by example – both in the region and globally – in its efforts to meet the objectives of the Paris Climate Change agreement.

“Speaking about renewable energy, there is little doubt that it will be at the heart of our global efforts for cleaner, more sustainable and less carbon intensive future.

“This is all the more important in Samoa, where you experience first-hand the devastating effects of climate change through drought, sea level rise, cyclones and floods – you know these all too well he said,” he said.

Mr. Mimica said the country continues to show it’s a world leader in sustainable energy, as the drop in its reliance on fossil fuels has translated to more access to renewable energy. 

Speaking on climate change, he added: “It is a problem for Samoans, for Europeans, and a problem for each and every one of us. At the last COP in Poland, the motto was ‘changing together’ - these words could not ring more true. Individually, we can make a difference, but collectively we can change course. And today, our collective efforts boil down to one very real and tangible success – this near completed hydropower plant in Fuluasou.”

He also stressed that equally important is how the plant will help Samoa in its transition to a low-carbon economy. 

“Replacing diesel generated power by clean power means less diesel, less emissions and less pollution. And I am happy that the EU – through our contribution to this plant – is playing its part in helping Samoa reach its ambitious target of 100 per cent electricity generation from renewables by 2025.”

By Adel Fruean 01 March 2019, 12:00AM

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