@ green | September-October . 2024

Solutions required to address climate change can be more than just technological

BY SHEILA ROZARIO

Opening his speech at the closing of the 6th International Sustainable Energy Summit ( ISES 2024 ) with a stark reminder of recent global temperature records , Pahang Crown Prince Tengku Hassanal Shah highlighted the alarming trend of increasing global temperatures .

He pointed to the unprecedented heat experienced in July 2023 , which saw temperatures soaring to 17.15 ° C , marking the hottest days ever recorded on Earth . This , he stressed , was not just a record but a clear and urgent call to action .

“ Historically , records like these were far less frequent , but the last decade has seen a sharp rise in such extreme weather events ,” said Tengku Hassanal .

He emphasised that from July 2023 to July 2024 , global temperatures exceeded the 1.5 ° C threshold set by the 2015 Paris Agreement .

He warned that this recordbreaking heat signalled the unmistakable onset of humancaused climate change and its potential to define the next generation by the devastating effects of droughts , heatwaves , severe storms , rising sea levels , and threats to water security .

Tengku Hassanal called for a decisive shift towards renewable energy sources , such as solar and hydroelectric power , to meet the increasing global energy demands .

He argued that reducing reliance on fossil fuels is crucial in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change .

ENERGY SECURITY

He also emphasised that investing in renewable energy technologies not only combats global warming but also promotes sustainable development and energy security for future generations .

“ This summit marks a watershed moment . It ’ s distinguished not just by the urgency of our concerns but also by the opportunities provided by innovation .”

He noted that the solutions required to address climate change could be more than just technological . Instead , they must be driven by a paradigm shift in thinking , a change that is not just desirable but necessary , underpinned by cooperation , creativity , and action .

Tengku Hassanal spoke passionately about the need for innovation to reimagine energy production and consumption , establish new routes for energy access , and ultimately protect the planet for future generations , inspiring hope and a sense of possibility .

As the summit drew to a close , he urged the attendees to remember this moment as a time when the world dared to dream of a future unshackled by the limitations of the past .

He also highlighted Malaysia ’ s significant progress in renewable energy , citing the country ’ s expansion of solar capacity and the pioneering of energy-efficient technologies as evidence of its commitment to minimising its carbon footprint .

These achievements , he noted , exemplify Malaysia ’ s shared commitment to creating a better , greener , and cleaner future for the next generation .

ENGAGING and empowering the next generation is critical to maintaining Malaysia ’ s economic momentum .

Pahang Crown Prince Tengku Hassanal Shah said the nation must be committed to legacy educational opportunities and cultivating talent through ongoing learning programmes and knowledge-sharing sessions such as the International Sustainable Energy Summit ( ISES ) 2024 .

“ We must provide platforms for young innovators to contribute to our sustainability goals . By incorporating sustainability into our school curriculum , we can instil a sense of environmental stewardship and leadership in children from a young age ,” said Tengku Hassanal in his closing address during ISES 2024 .

“ This includes measures like incorporating green technologies in school projects and forming sustainability clubs to encourage students to research and innovate in the field of environmental

“ We must always remember that sustainability is a never-ending journey ,” Tengku Hassanal reminded the audience , pointing to the past two days of discussions as a testament to the power of collaboration .

Leaders , innovators , and pioneers from around the world came together to share insights , form alliances , and create a framework for a sustainable energy future that reflects humanity ’ s deepest aspirations .

TASK BEGINS TODAY

As the summit concluded , Tengku Hassanal called on all participants to remain committed to their roles as architects of progress .

“ The journey is long , but with unity and a consistent dedication to innovation , we can light the way to a future in which sustainable energy is not just a concept , but a reality ,” he said .

Looking ahead , he emphasised the importance of engaging and empowering the next generation to maintain the momentum towards sustainability .

He underscored the need to leave

science .”

Tengku Hassanal added that local universities and research institutions also played an essential role in the endeavour .

By providing specialised programmes in renewable energy , environmental engineering , and sustainable development , the young generation will be provided with the information and skills they will need to face future challenges .

“ Partnership with international and renowned institutions can further improve these programmes by providing our students with global perspectives and expertise ,” Tengku Hassanal said .

He noted that sustainability is a never-ending journey . Malaysia ’ s progress in renewable energy , from expanding solar capacity to pioneering energy-efficient technologies , demonstrates its dedication to minimising the nation ’ s carbon footprint . He pointed out the achievements exemplified Malaysia ’ s shared commitment

Tengku Hassanal Shah

a legacy of educational opportunities , cultivate talent through ongoing learning programmes , and provide platforms for young innovators to contribute to sustainability goals .

Tengku Hassanal concluded his address with a call to action , urging all present to continue the momentum built during the summit and to work together towards sustainable solutions that incorporate inclusion , equity , and resilience .

“ The task begins today , and the future awaits . Let us work together to realise its full potential ,” Tengku Hassanal declared .

The 6th ISES has been a significant milestone in the global fight against climate change . As the summit closed , Malaysia ’ s leadership and dedication to sustainable energy and environmental stewardship stand as a beacon of hope for the future . – @ green

to creating a better , greener and cleaner country for future generations . These achievements should fill us with pride and optimism for the future .

“ Even though we are less than one per cent emissions on a global level , we should also lead by example to the rest of the world ,” he added .

Tengku Hassanal said Malaysia would continue to invest in cuttingedge technologies , encourage research and development and implement policies that would accelerate progress in the energy and water sectors .

He also advised that fostering an environment that promotes creativity and technology development would pave the way for long-term growth and a resilient future .

“ The journey is long , but with unity and a consistent dedication to innovation , we can light the way towards a future where sustainable energy is not just a concept but a reality ,” he added .