Local climate advocacy group, the Climate Action Network Zimbabwe (CANZIM) has issued a strong call for Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries to accelerate the transition to renewable energy, highlighting the critical role of solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power in combating climate change.
According to CANZIM, these renewable energy sources do not produce greenhouse gas emissions or other pollutants, making them a vital component of the global fight against climate change.
The advocacy group emphasised that transitioning to renewable energy is not just a local or regional imperative but a global necessity. “Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power do not produce greenhouse gas emissions or other pollutants, unlike fossil fuels. Transitioning to renewable energy is crucial for mitigating climate change and reducing humanity’s environmental impact,” CANZIM said.
However, the organisation also pointed out that SADC countries face significant obstacles in this transition. The region’s high debt levels and limited access to climate finance pose substantial challenges for addressing the impacts of climate change.
CANZIM urged coordinated regional and international efforts to support sustainable development and enhance climate resilience across Southern Africa. “SADC countries are at a crossroads, the high debt levels and limited access to climate finance pose significant challenges for SADC countries in addressing the impacts of climate change. Coordinated regional and international efforts are needed to support sustainable development and climate resilience,” said the group
The organisation also highlighted the importance of involving the private sector in the transition to renewable energy. “The private sector has a greater role in moving the just energy transition agenda worldwide,” CANZIM said, highlighting the need for businesses and industries to lead by example and invest in clean energy solutions.
