Heleen de Coninck Shares Insights on Climate Finance and Technology on Al Jazeera
Climate scientist Heleen de Coninck discusses the challenges and solutions for climate finance and technology on Al Jazeera, emphasizing the need for systemic changes
Climate Finance
De Coninck emphasized that investments in climate mitigation and adaptation are currently falling far short of what is needed to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. According to the Climate Policy Initiative (CPI), investments in climate mitigation in 2021/22 amounted to approximately $1.15 trillion, with the majority going to energy and transport systems. However, investments in fossil fuels still exceed those in renewable energy. De Coninck pointed out that financing for climate adaptation, especially in developing countries, is severely lacking, leading to significant damage and loss of life.
New Technologies
During the interview, De Coninck also discussed the role of new technologies in addressing climate change. She highlighted that all technologies are needed. She also said that technology cannot work without societal changes. When asked what gives her hope, she answered 鈥渨e have not even seriously tried鈥� and that behaviour change, governance, capacity building, technological innovation and policy could work together to accelerate the needed transitions.
Sustainable Energy
De Coninck made it clear that while renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power are crucial, they are not the only solution. There is also a need for systemic changes in energy, material, and food systems. She warned that the green technological transition must not repeat the same injustices as the current systems based on fossil fuels.
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