Climate change on the agenda

The Climate Change Focus Group recently established by the Nationalist Party is a first for Malta and an example other parties might consider following. The fact that a climate change group has been formed by a political party to propose to its executive how our country may further overcome this global challenge is a true affirmation that the correct priorities are being put on the table for discussion.

The diversified composition of this focus group allows for a multi-perspective discussion, with views coming from the distinct sectors represented by the members of the group. The members occupy various positions within society, from environmentalists to architects to engineers and students. This diversification is perhaps the group's major asset. A focus group solely made up of environmental specialists would not be as effective, simply because solutions to this challenge should be acceptable to all and understandable by all. Because climate change is such a major issue, it requires everyone's input, be it professionals or housewives, politicians or farmers. Thus, the participation of students within the focus group shall ensure that the recommendations are in line and compatible with students' lifestyles. On the other hand, the environmental experts will provide the strategic guidance and direction for the discussion.

Members of the focus group also share diverse political ideologies, which is essential for having a discussion that goes beyond partisan politics. Climate change is an issue that cuts across party lines and requires action which is mindful of the national interest.

To refresh readers' minds, EU member states have agreed to collectively reduce overall EU emissions to 20 per cent below 1990 levels. This is no mean feat. According to Resources and Rural Affairs Minister George Pullicino, Malta needs to invest €1.2 billion to come in line with the targets as unanimously agreed by the heads of European member states. Undoubtedly a challenge. However let's remain conscious of the fact that this investment will after all lead to a better quality of life. Furthermore, respecting these targets is a must for Malta in maintaining its competitive edge and securing further high quality jobs.

Respecting these targets must not be seen as a punishment handed down from Brussels, and the reason is twofold. Firstly, as a nation responsible to future generations it is our duty to hand over an environment which is not only in the same state we have inherited it, but in a cleaner and better state. Secondly, undertaking initiatives aimed at protecting our environment and minimising our negative impact on it will serve us all in attaining a better standard of living. Needless to say, a polluted environment is the major source of a number of health problems.

Postponing the action, be this in the form of mitigation or adaptation, will only increase the financial burden down the line as it would require increased efforts to restore the environmental damage caused. As such, from a financial perspective, acting now costs less, acting tomorrow, more.

The report recently presented to the Prime Minister by the Climate Change Committee makes no less than 87 recommendations to the government and will serve as a platform upon which consultation will now take place. The report has also provided a road map paving the way for the eventual implementation of the recommendations. Once the consultation period closes, this country should embrace the outcome and continue with the implementation. Continue because it must be acknowledged that a number of initiatives are already in place and others completed. However, efforts must be stepped up to fully meet the set targets.

Within the climate change challenge, the government is just one player. Reaching these targets requires us all to be active players. The actions of each one of us, irrespective of how insignificant they may be, all add up in reaching our common goal - the protection of global climate for present and future generations of mankind.

Mr Callus is a member of the Climate Change Focus Group recently set up by the Nationalist Party.