Colombia makes UN climate pledge
Colombia will cut GHG emissions by at least 20 per cent by 2030 as part of UN led efforts to reach global climate deal
Colombia has pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 per cent by 2030 as part of United Nations’ led efforts to reach an international climate deal, according to a government announcement on Tuesday.
The Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development confirmed that it is finalising its plans and will submit them to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in the coming weeks.
In a statement Environment Minister Gabriel Vallejo López said: "This commitment assumed by Colombia implies a transformation of the national economy, towards a model of efficient use of resources and energy. It is a decision that drives innovation and technological development in line with the New Economic Climate."
UN-member states are submitting Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) to the UNFCCC in the build up to the key 21st Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP21) climate change conference to be held in Paris at the end of the year.
Vallejo López said that Colombia’s INDC will focus on addressing deforestation, enhancing energy efficiency, boosting renewable energy and adding hybrid vehicles to the public transportation network.
Colombia could raise the target to reduce GHG emissions to 30 per cent depending on international cooperation and financial support, according to the ministry.
The UNs deadline for member states to submit INDCs is October 1 and the pledges are expected to cover about 80 per cent of global GHG emissions.
The pledges will be reviewed before the crucial Paris meeting that runs from November 11 to December 11 and an international deal is scheduled to be signed that will be aimed at limiting global warming to 2°C.
Vallejo López added: "This is in line with the Green Growth Strategy (National Development Plan 2014-2018), which recognizes the outstanding challenges facing the country in terms of development, post-conflict and adaptation to climate change scenario."
