12 @ greenXtra | November-December . 2024

Technological solutions alone will not be enough to combat climate change

Crown Prince Tengku Hassanal Shah of Pahang brought attention to the disturbing trend of rising global temperatures during the 6th International Sustainable Energy Summit ( ISES 2024 ) in Kuala Lumpur by bringing up recent records of global temperatures .

The hottest days ever recorded on Earth occurred in July 2023 , when temperatures reached an astonishing 17.15 ° C . Tengku Hassanal insisted this was more than a recording ; it was an impassioned and immediate rallying cry .

“ 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 .

This unprecedented hot wave clearly indicates the beginning of human-caused climate change , which he said might define future generations through the catastrophic impacts of droughts , heat waves , intense storms , increasing sea levels , and dangers to water security .

As the world ’ s energy needs continue to rise , Tengku Hassanal demanded a dramatic transition to renewable power sources like solar and hydroelectricity .

In order to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and lessen the impact of climate change , he said , we must rely less on fossil fuels .

ENERGY SECURITY

He also emphasised that investing in renewable energy technologies

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 .”

– Tengku Hassanal 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 .

T h e s e achievements , he noted , exemplify Malaysia ’ s shared commitment to creating a better , greener , and cleaner future for the next generation .

“ 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 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 . – @ greenXtra