‘Up to us to steer the planet away from catastrophic future’ – Leo Brincat

Minister for the Environment Leo Brincat said that it is up to the present world leaders to “steer the planet away from the catastrophic future.”

Addressing the Climate Change Summit in Paris, Minister Brincat said that this meeting can provide the adequate political momentum and support to ensure that those present do not leave Paris without a new legally binding Climate Agreement in Hand.

He called on the states to transform words into concrete action.

Brincat said that Malta, as a Member of the European Union, is committed to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases in order to mitigate climate change.

“The switch to a low carbon economy is characterised by a long-term vision,” he said while mentioning the steps Malta had to take in order to reach the greenhouse gas reduction objectives.

Insisted that Malta is committed to increase energy efficiency even through the setting up of a Green Climate Fund.

“This did not come without difficulties and there are still a lot of challenges to face”. But we draw strength from the fact that we ourselves have experienced benefits of lowering emissions”. 

He said that there is a need for Ministers to move out of their comfort zones, close small gaps between different groups to take concrete and immediate action.

“We must make use of this opportunity to ensure a better quality of life, health and environment to present and future generations,” the Minister concluded.