SUMMARY OF STATEMENTS BY SIDS LEADERS AT THE PLENARY OF THE 2012 THIRD WORLD SUMMIT ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (RIO+20)

PREPARED BY OHRLLS

 

SUMMARY

The 2012 Third World Summit on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), saw 36 representatives and heads of state from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) take to the floor during the Plenary Session to deliver statements on a range of issues of importance and relevance to them. Of the 36 SIDS representatives, 10 were Heads of State while 10 were Heads of Government making up 26% of the 77 Heads of State and Heads of Government who addressed the Plenary Session.

This document provides a summary of each statement delivered by SIDS representatives and outlines key points mentioned in each statement. The full statements can be found at the following web address: https://rio20.un.org/rio20/records/page

The following is a list - in no particular order - of the major topics which SIDS leaders elaborated on in their statements at the Plenary Session of Rio+20:

• Oceans and the concept of a Blue Economy
• Green Economy
• Global financial crisis and its impacts on SIDS
• Technology transfer
• Renewable Energy and related targets
• Capacity building and financing for development
• Third International Conference on SIDS to be held in 2014 with offers by Fiji and Samoa to host the conference. Barbados also made comments that can be interpreted as a show of interest in convening a ‘Barbados+20’
• Climate change and natural disasters
• Special case for SIDS
• Sustainable Development Goals
• Adoption of a mechanism to enforce and monitor commitments made at Rio+20

Many SIDS countries along with their development partners pledged voluntary commitments in the context of the Secretary General’s Initiative on Sustainable Energy for All. Those commitments have been included in a summarised form where applicable. A full list of commitments made can be found at the following web address: http://www.uncsd2012.org/rio20/allcommitments.html

A total of US$ 513 billion in pledges were made by governments, the private sector, civil society and other groups as a response to calls made for voluntary commitments to achieve the goals of the conference. Pledges included that made by Brazilian President Rousseff of US$ 6 million to UNEP which would target developing countries and a further US$ 10 million towards climate change challenges in Africa, LDCs and SIDS. Also of note, were the pledges made by China’s Premier Wen Jiabao of US$ 6 million to a trust fund which would help developing countries raise capacity for environmental protection. Furthermore, the Premier made a pledge of approximately US$ 31.4 million for a three year cooperation project to help LDCs, SIDS and African countries in tackling climate change.

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ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

 

Statement by the Prime Minister
Dr. The Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer

In Prime Minister Spencer’s opening remarks, he stated that “Antigua and Barbuda aligns itself with the statements made by Algeria on behalf of the G77 and China, and Nauru on behalf of SIDs.” The Prime Minister elaborated on the challenges of achieving sustainable development whereby the global financial crisis has been keenly felt in SIDS. Indeed the “inequality among nations is increasing at an alarming rate” with the impacts felt by countries such as Antigua and Barbuda being “immensely disproportionate to the negligible acts of destruction by our own people.” He further stressed that the problems of climate change, the global financial crisis and over fishing are not problems “caused by us, yet we are called here to carry that burden.” The Prime Minister described the disproportionate ease of access to low cost finance between developed and developing countries and called upon all gathered to agree that “as long as this condition exists, it would be difficult for developing countries like Antigua and Barbuda to meet any sustainable development goals. Mr. Spencer further called for a development plan which would “identify mechanisms that can level this ever growing uneven playing field.” The Prime Minister called on development partners to address the issue of debt forgiveness for developing countries as many “SIDS through no fault of their own are saddled with a choking debt burden along with the lack of reliable low cost capital. This is in light of developing countries still being expected to meet the challenges of economic shocks, natural disasters caused by climate change and sea level rise.” A call to international development partners was also made with regards to mobilizing “immediate international financial reforms” and transfer of technologies to SIDS and other developing countries. In his closing remarks, the Prime Minister included a call for assistance on the distribution of renewable energy to developing countries at a cost less than that of conventional energy.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Antigua and Barbuda, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP pledged to diversify its matrix and achieve a target of 15% energy supply from renewable sources by 2030.

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BAHAMAS

Statement by the Honourable Frederick A. Mitchell
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration of
the Commonwealth of The Bahamas

Minister Mitchell elaborated on the challenges the Bahamas faces from external shocks such as the increased frequency of natural disasters compounded by an economic recession that has left “deep and lasting wounds.” These challenges along with national debt and price volatility have meant that efforts to eradicate poverty and develop sustainably have been hindered. The Minister, called for a greater sense of urgency in efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and to sustain progress already made. In reference to the Bahamas’ environmental commitments, the Minister outlined efforts his country was taking under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) with regards for instance to the introduction of penalties for overfishing, the banning of long line fishing and the establishment of the Bahamas as a shark sanctuary. Mr. Mitchell’s statement concluded with references to the Green Economy and the importance of strengthening institutions and ensuring that adhering to Green Economic initiatives would not compromise “our macro-development . . . or increase our dependence on technologies . . . incompatible with preserving our environment.”

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BAHRAIN

Statement by His Excellency Juma Bin AHMED ALKAABI, Minister of Municipality and Urban Planning of the Kingdom of Bahrain

The initial remarks by Minister Alkaabi pointed to remaining challenges since the first Rio summit in 1992 including socio-economic, food security, desertification and water issues. While the global financial crisis has presented its own challenges, the international community must continue to work together to guarantee a safe future for the generations to come. The Minister assured that the Kingdom of Bahrain will continue to work with the international community to implement “measures of a pioneering nature” for economic and social development. Mr. Alkaabi went on to outline measures his country has taken to improve its sustainability including the establishment of relevant institutions, enactment of legislation and the empowerment of women. The Minister hoped that Rio+20 would lay down a new blueprint for sustainable development and optimum administration of national resources along with the forging of Green economies.

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BARBADOS

Address by His Excellency Freundel Jerome Stuart, Prime Minister of Barbados

Prime Minister Freundel J. Stuart, in his address at Rio+20 emphasised his government’s commitment to transitioning to a Green Economy and thus transforming Barbados “into the most advanced green economy in the Latin American and Caribbean region.” The Prime Minister went further to state that Barbados had thrown its “full and unconditional support behind the UN Secretary General’s Sustainable Energy for All Initiative,” whereby the Prime Minister outlined targets he hoped his country would achieve. In his role as a member of the Secretary General’s Panel on Global Sustainability, Prime Minister Stuart emphasised that “any new vision for global sustainability must encompass ‘the blue economy’. With the establishment of the Caribbean Sea Commission, Prime Minister Stuart called on the international community to support the work of the Commission along with “the future designation of the Caribbean Sea by the General Assembly as a special area in the context of sustainable development.” A special mention was also made in light of the emerging global framework of Sustainable Development Goals to which Barbados would play an active role to ensure that the perspectives of SIDS would be incorporated. In recognition of the Barbados Programme of Action (BPOA) as an essential blueprint for the sustainability of SIDS, Prime Minister Stuart put forward a motion to convene in 2014 the Third International Conference on SIDS in Barbados, to be known as Barbados+20.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Barbados, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP pledged to increase its renewable energy use to 29% of all energy consumption by 2029. In addition, through Electric Energy Efficiency, the country aims to achieve savings in its consumption of electricity with an overall target of 22% savings by 2029 as opposed to a ‘business as usual’ scenario.

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BELIZE

Statement by Her Excellency Lisel Alamilla, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development of Belize

Minister Alamilla’s address provided endorsement for the MDGs although she admitted that meeting the goals was of particular difficulty in reference to sustainable development and poverty alleviation. Shocks to the economy, the global financial crisis and natural disasters in addition to a lack of capacity in financial and human resources have led to: worsening poverty, high unemployment, increasing homicide and violent crimes, drug trafficking, resource depletion and environmental degradation. The Minister also made reference to illegal incursions from neighbouring states to utilize natural resources, particularly fisheries. Ms. Alamilla stated that her government fully endorses both the outcomes of the Rio+20 Conference and the concept of the Green Economy. In her closing remarks, the Minister made reference to the special case for SIDS and the critical need for developing new modalities for engagement between developed and developing states in reference to honouring commitments to the agreed SDGs.

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CAPE VERDE

Address by His Excellency Jorge Carlos De Almeida Fonseca, President of the Republic of Cape Verde

President Fonseca began by ensuring that his country – over the years – has implemented measures to balance environmental protection and biodiversity. Given major financial constraints, Cape Verde continues to address the fight against desertification, protection of endangered species and the use of clean energy. The President emphasised that without a drastic reduction in green house gases, the future and prospects for SIDS suffering from the likes of desertification, drought and hurricanes, was bleak. Mr. Fonseca drew attention to the Rio+20 outcome document to which he opined that much was to be desired especially in terms of clear identification of mechanisms for effecting the document’s objectives. President Fonseca stated it was imperative that concrete measures be taken for the development and implementation of the Green Economy concept, and that firm commitments were constructed to reduce global warming. Lastly, Mr. Fonseca emphasised the importance of the adoption of new models to enforce measures to honour commitments made by representatives present at the conference.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Cape Verde, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, and UNDP made commitments to achieve targets in relation to renewable energy and energy efficiency. The following details encapsulate the extent of Cape Verde’s commitments:

1. Renewable Energy – Targets and objectives

(a) Reduce the importation of fuels for the production of electric energy by 30% until 2020
(b) Reduce emission of gases with greenhouse effect by 35% until 2020
(c) Guarantee the penetration rate of electric vehicles by 2% until 2030
(d) Pursue the goal of a 0% emitter country until 2030

2. Energy Efficiency Target and objectives

(a) Achieve target of 30% of energy efficiency through the promotion and the use of new technology so as to achieve greater efficiency both in the production as well as in the transportation, distribution and consumption

3. To be achieved with assistance from development partners.

(a) Increase the coverage rate of electricity network to 100%
(b) Universalize access to energy in a facilitated way while guaranteeing quality
(c) Guarantee that at least one island is 100% renewable until 2020
(d) Guarantee that at least 10% of public lights are based on renewable energy
(e) Increase the micro-production, for that purpose using renewable energy, focusing on public buildings with the goal of reducing the energy bill cost
(f) Guarantee that at least 30% of the unsalted water for human consumption is produced based on renewable energy.

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COMOROS

Address by His Excellency Ikililou Dhoinine, President of the Union of the Comoros

President Dhoinine described severe weather and flooding that devastated several villages in April with resulting impacts of homelessness, infrastructural damage and disruption to the “education of 20,000 children.” The President reiterated a call so that efforts to support Comoros during severe events be maintained and strengthened. In reference to the action plans of Barbados and Mauritius, the President stated that those plans of action must now be expressed in terms of quantified objectives and time-bound implementation programmes. Mr. Dhoinine also affirmed his country’s endorsement of the proposal to strengthen UNEP and that the institution should be provided with adequate financial resources, based on a needs assessment, but furthermore, legitimacy, authority and executive powers. With reference to the Green Economy, the President emphasised the importance of technical and institutional capacity building along with technology transfer as essential requirements for the transition to sustainable development. This transition however would come as a result of the implementation of rules and incentives for the efficient use of resources and a new mechanism which transcends traditional North-South relationships.

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CUBA

Address by His Excellency Raul Castro Ruz, President of the Republic of Cuba

President Ruz, in his initial remarks stated that the inability to transform unsustainable production and consumption patterns is challenging the balance and renewal of natural mechanisms that nourishes diverse forms of life on the planet. The President pointed to the high rates of species extinction and deforestation along with “CO2 emissions that have grown by 38% from 1990 to 2009” which is threatening the existence of numerous developing countries. President Ruz warned that everyone must work together to avoid suffering the consequences of climate change and that “industrial nations should avoid the grave mistake of believing that they will be able to live a little longer at our expenses.” As a final note, the President concluded that the only choice was to build equitable and just societies and to ensure sustainable development and to apply science and technology for “the salvation of both Earth and human dignity.”

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DOMINICA

Statement by His Excellency Rayburn Blacmoore, Minister for Public Works, Energy and Ports of Dominica

Minister Blacmoore initiated his address by indicating that the twenty first century presents major challenges for SIDS in what he termed “an increasingly hostile global environment.” The Minister outlined development hurdles for SIDS which included the “stalled Doha Development round,” the global financial crisis and environmental degradation. It was iterated that the foundation principles of sustainable development were of significant importance to the creation of a global Green Economy. Mr. Blacmoore stated that his country was convinced that the only chance to achieve sustainable development was through the pursuit of low carbon climate resilient strategies. The Minister continued by emphasising that energy dependence continues to be a source of vulnerability for SIDS, likewise, difficulties to expand energy generation to meet growing demands was likely to remain the single most important constraining factor to the sustainable development of SIDS. In reference to SIDS DOCK, the Minister stated that this initiative provided ample opportunity for SIDS to achieve low carbon growth and energy security. The Minister fully endorsed the Barbados Declaration on Achieving Sustainable Energy for All in SIDS, and he called upon the international community to support the work of SIDS DOCK by convening an international forum to design mechanisms that are innovative for sustainable energy technology transfer and development in SIDS. In regards to the Outcome Document, the Minister confirmed that his delegation was pleased with the reaffirmation of commitments to support SIDS and continue to recognise the special vulnerabilities of SIDS. Mr. Blacmoore also welcomed the agreement to host a Third International Conference on SIDS in the Pacific and that this third conference would provide the opportunity to implement the outcomes of Rio+20 along with building progress already made on the BPOA and MSI. The Minister welcomed the emphasis placed on oceans at Rio+20 as a prerequisite on sustainable fisheries management. In his concluding remarks, Minister Blacmoore stated that the failure of developed countries to meet commitments in areas of capacity building, technology transfer and finance has been a major disappointment.” Furthermore, the failure of developing countries to access finance for development has damaged the credibility of international agreements which indicates the need to develop a strong institutional framework to implement and monitor sustainable development activities.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Dominica, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, and UNDP volunteered to commit to:

1. Increase renewable energy generation from the current 30% from hydro to 100% by adding geothermal energy to the mix; and

2. Become carbon negative by exporting renewable energy to its neighbours - Guadeloupe and Martinique - by 2020.

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Address by His Excellency Leonel Fernández Reyna, President of the Dominican Republic.

President Reyna, expressed disappointment in his initial remarks as in the last two decades - despite the gains – the speed of progress has not been ideal in dealing with “the desperate situation” of our world. Mr. Reyna also focussed on the global financial crisis which he described as “an immense global casino” of which the excuse has been made by some developed countries to not grant 0.7% of their GDP towards the most vulnerable economies. In reference to efforts carried out by the Dominican Republic to address its environmental situation, the President, referred to the planting of 108 million trees since 1997, thus increasing forest cover from 27.5% to 39.7% of land area. At the same instance, the country boasts of 67 projects under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). In reference to global population, President Reyna posed the question of “What would happen in the coming decades when 9 billion people will be living on this planet?” He further iterated “How much longer can we continue without an effective global system to fully achieve sustainable human development?” The President, expressed his belief that there was “only one way to succeeding in our quest for a solution” to development challenges and that is that industrialized countries must more decisively and effectively establish a way to safeguard the integrity of societies and resources on the basis of the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. In his concluding remarks, the President expressed the view that there was a need to promote a new model which would place human beings in a position to produce wealth and to distribute it equitably.

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FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA

Address by H.E. Emanuel Mori, President of The Federated States of Micronesia

President Mori addressed the difficulties faced by his country given the increased frequency of tropical storms and drought. The President called for continued international support of the Montréal Protocol with regards to fighting climate change. The Blue Economy with a Pacific wide network of marine protected areas was also raised in which Mr. Mori called for other regions to support the sustainable use of ocean resources. President Mori also touched upon the 2012 Barbados Declaration on achieving Sustainable Energy for All in SIDS in which he referred to assistance required for capacity building and technology transfer. In closing, President Mori called for all to support the outcome of Rio+20 with a sense of urgency.

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FIJI

Statement by the Prime Minister of Fiji,
Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama,

In Prime Minister Bainimarama’s opening remarks, he referred to Fiji’s national assessment for the 5 year review of the Mauritius Strategy in which it was found that since 1992/1994, the country’s vulnerability had increased while its capacity to cope had not. The Prime Minister outlined key areas in which Fiji continues to face mounting challenges including accessing resources to reduce the risk of disasters including climate change, developing cost effective infrastructure to engage the global community and markets, and securing foreign investment. Mr. Bainimarama stated the importance of Fiji’s collaboration with its development partners however he went on to stress “that Fiji needs support from its partners and not interference or attempted control.” The Prime Minister acknowledged that “Fiji has keen interest in exploring the economic opportunity seabed mineral resources have to offer . . . of not only our EEZs but also the High Seas.” In his closing remarks, Prime Minister Bainimarama acknowledged that the special case for SIDS continues to evolve and is relevant in the outcome document of Rio+20. With regards to the proposal for a Third International Meeting of SIDS in 2014, the Prime Minister provided an offer for Fiji to host the event.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Fiji, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, and UNDP has committed to the following:

1. To further increase the share of renewable energy in electricity production from its current level (60%) to a higher level.

2. Achieve 100% access to electrification by 2016, with the current levels standing between 85 – 90%.

3. Further improve the reliability of main grid power supply and benchmark with those of similar economies.

4. Promote energy conservation and efficiency in all sectors of the economy.

5. Further enhance and strengthen institutional, regulatory and legal framework of the energy sector.

6. Utilisation of Biofuels in Fiji’s transport sector by 2015.

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GRENEDA

Address by His Excellency Tillman Thomas, Prime Minister of Grenada

Prime Minister Tillman opened his address by referring to Grenadian people’s natural inclination for conserving natural assets and combined with international support this has been the bedrock of jobs, food security, social inclusion and domestic peace. Grenada launched a video documentary at the conference entitled “Grenada, Island of Sustainability” which exhibited inter alia natural inheritance and public policy initiatives on sustainable development. In identifying poverty as the greatest global obstacle to achieving sustainable development, the Prime Minister urged the international community to continue to work together to achieve poverty eradication. In reference to the success of the Outcome Document, Mr. Tillman emphasised that the renewal of political commitment must be accompanied by the requisite finance, technological and capacity building programmes on the ground. In SIDS, the Prime Minister iterated that sustainable development can not take root where countries are beset with indebtedness, financial crises and climate change. The Third International Conference on SIDS in 2014 was identified by the Prime Minister as an opportunity to further address the challenges of SIDS. In the coming year, Grenada will host a Caribbean leaders conference in collaboration with Sir Richard Branson designed to assist governments through private sector financing for sustainable marine practices and policies. Amongst the targets set by Grenada regarding its future energy use, the Prime Minister announced the pledge by the hotel sector to become the first zero carbon hotel market in the Caribbean. In his closing remarks, Prime Minister Tillman praised the work of the UN as being indispensable to the future we need given it was “the best place for decision making affecting the international body politic” and Grenada will continue to support the UN’s reforms.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Grenada, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has made a voluntary commitment to move towards a low carbon development pathway. This will be achieved through increasing the efficiency of energy usage and the deployment of indigenous sources of renewable energy. Furthermore, Grenada voluntarily commits to a minimum target of reducing its total GHG emissions by 20% below ‘business as usual’ by 2020.

• Ministry of Finance, Planning, Economy, Energy and Cooperatives of Grenada, in partnership with UNDP and private partners, has voluntarily committed to the ‘Greenada Vision 2030’ goal of becoming 100% green in the country’s electricity and transport sectors. This commitment has further been bolstered by the full support of Grenada’s Prime Minister where he said “Grenada is determined to play its part in the global battle to mitigate climate change. It is my government’s vision that by 2030, 100% of our primary energy demand for electricity generation and for transport will be provided by renewable energy sources.”

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GUYANA

His Excellency Donald Ramotar
President of the Republic of Guyana

President Ramotar’s address alluded to funding for sustainable development and the importance of the developed world providing “significant financial transfers” to fund programs targeting the likes of climate change and biodiversity – the solutions to which “are far more prevalent in the developing world.” With reference to climate change financing, the President acknowledged the commitments provided by US$30 billion in fast start funding for the period 2010 to 2012, rising to US$100 billion per annum by 2020 and that while experience with this funding has not demonstrated speed nor focus, the commitments to 2020 will “provide an opening to start the process of correcting the centuries-old imbalances in the global economy . . . which have meant that the natural capital of the developing world was provided to the world for free.” In reference to progress being made by Guyana and its development partners, the President provided the example of collaboration with Norway, in which Guyana has become one of the first countries in the world to sell environmental services along with the maintenance of 99.5% of forest cover – “the highest rate in the world.” Furthermore, Guyana is converting almost the entirety of its energy base to clean energy and by 2017 would have delivered a 92% cut in greenhouse gas emissions.

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HAITI

Address by His Excellency Michel Joseph Martelly, President of the Republic of Haiti

President Martelly began by addressing the challenges his country faced with regards to the increased frequency and intensity of extreme events along with the exposure of Haiti to environmental and economic stress that has not only hampered growth but also undermined efforts to achieve the MDGs. In reference to Rio+20, the President talked about shared but differentiated responsibilities and that with regards to transitioning to a Green Economy, Haiti does not have the resources nor the infrastructure in place to conform to a new economic paradigm. The President opined that a new roadmap to reform the framework for environmental governance was needed and called for efforts for new environmental justice that have never been applied since Rio ’92. Furthermore, Mr. Martelly stated that new efforts were needed for financing to strengthen regional frameworks such as CARICOM and called for specific measures to ensure the successful follow-up to Rio+20.

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JAMAICA

Statement by the Honourable Portia Simpson Miller
Prime Minister of Jamaica

Prime Minister Simpson began his address by detailing critical areas of concern not only for his own country but those of SIDS. He described vulnerabilities due to the openness of economies, high levels of poverty, limitations in economic diversification, climate change, food security and limitations in capacity. In reference to GDP, the Prime Minister felt that GDP as a measure of human development, masked inequalities and limited capacity of developing countries to source concessionary financing for development. Mr Miller called on the international community to actively explore and design more creative and effective financial instruments to counter the effects of debt and poverty. Such a mechanism “should provide long term concessionary financing to affected states without stringent conditionalities.” In reference to the Green Economy the Prime Minister stated that Jamaica broadly supported the initiatives therein, although as it stands, the Green Economy impacted on the ways developing countries engaged in trade activities by introducing international environmental benchmarks that would impose new conditionalities and barriers to trade. Mr. Miller went further to state that the concerns of SIDS must be included in the follow-up process after Rio+20 and in this regard, he welcomed the call for the convening of the Third International Confernece on SIDS in 2014.

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THE REPUBLIC OF KIRIBATI

Statement by His Excellency Beretitenti Anote Tong

In his address, President Tong declared that the international community had failed to ensure the future survival of his country and that it had become “collateral damage” given a lack of a clear commitment from the international community to provide guarantees that would allow Kiribati to meet the challenges posed by climate change. In regards to ocean resources and management, President Tong elaborated on the commitment in the Pacific region to linking national marine protected area initiatives into a region wide “Pacific Oceanscape” encompassing some 40 million square kilometres of the Pacific Ocean. The President was also encouraged that the World Bank had initiated the Global Partnership for Oceans. Mr. Tong further stressed that his country upheld the concept of green development in a blue world with leadership in safeguarding marine biodiversity. To this end, Kiribati has committed over 400,000 sq. kilometres of its EEZ to be designated a Marine Protected Area otherwise known as the Phoenix Islands Protected Area.

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MALDIVES

Address by His Excellency Mohamed Waheed, President of the Republic of Maldives

In his opening remarks, President Waheed reasserted the right of the Maldives not only to survive, but also to thrive. The President iterated that the Maldives – being one of only three countries to graduate from LDC status – was well under way to achieving most of the MDGs. Mr. Waheed also announced the creation of the largest marine reserve in the world along with setting one of the most ambitious carbon neutral targets. The President affirmed the support of the Maldives for the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for all and that his country was working towards covering 60% of its electricity needs from solar power. Mr. Waheed confirmed that progress towards renewable energy targets was slow given the large financial and technological investments necessary and that in order for developing countries to join the Green Economy, critical support was required. For instance, out of the 194 inhabited islands in the Maldives, 113 suffer severe coastal erosion while over 90 islands require freshwater. The cost of addressing coastal erosion, freshwater and sewage would be in the region of US$500 million. The President affirmed his support for the call to the organisation of a third global sustainable development forum for SIDS in 2014.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Maldives, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has voluntarily committed to:

1. Provide all citizens with access to reliable & sustainable energy services at the lowest possible cost.

2. Achieve carbon neutrality in the energy sector by the year 2020.

3. Promote energy conservation and energy efficiency.

4. Increase national energy security.

5. Promote renewable energy technologies.

6. Strengthen the institutional and legal framework of the energy sector.

• The Maldives also announced the establishment of the world’s largest marine reserve. Often considered to be at the forefront of adapting to climate change and sea-level rise, Maldivian officials have stated that all 1,192 of its islands will become a marine reserve by 2017.

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MARSHALL ISLANDS

His Excellency Christopher Jorebon Loeak
President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands

President Loeak began his address by stating his great concern that certain island states were excluded from Rio+20. The President continued by elaborating on the importance of the Blue Economy and that fisheries was by far the most precious resource for the Marshall Islands which needed protection “even over the apparent objections of large, distant fishing nations licensed by us.” Marshall Islands is working with partners in the Parties to the Nauru Agreement to set a global pace on sustainable fisheries including a ban on high seas fishing and the establishment of the world’s largest shark sanctuary through a national ban on finning. With reference to the impacts of climate change, President Loeak stated that the territorial integrity and statehood of the Marshall Islands was at risk. The President also reaffirmed the special case of SIDS with regards to sustainable development and climate change. The lack of direct support to actual projects on the ground was hindering progress and that support needed to address each country’s “self determined priorities.” Given that Marshall Islands with partners Japan and SIDS DOCK are undertaking a feasibility study on Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion for electricity production, as a final plea, President Loeak called on the world “for our very survival” to accelerate the transformation of the energy sector to fully renewable and low carbon sources.

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MAURITIUS

His Excellency Devanand Virahsawmy, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development of Mauritius.

Minister Virahsawmy began his address by making reference to the challenges his country faces in terms of decreasing crop yields, water availability and sea level rise. The Minister outlined strategies his country has implemented to meet challenges of attaining a green economy through the creation for instance of green jobs, land use planning, water conservation, food security and sustainable agriculture. Mr. Virahsawmy singled out water availability as a major concern in his country due to changing rainfall patterns largely attributed to climate change. In reference to oceans, the Minister identified the EEZ as having a great potential role in assuring the future prosperity of his country while admitting that there was a need for funding, technology transfer and capacity building. In order for SIDS to achieve Green Economic goals, the Minister stated that this would require massive investment and that there was a need for a change in the policy allocation of development assistance by International Financial Institutions (IFIs). With further reference to the Green Economy, the Minister iterated that – Green Economy – initiatives should not be converted or misused as green protectionism by developed countries and become an obstacle to the development of SIDS. Mr. Virahsawmy continued by emphasising that SIDS should not be denied access to concessional funds from IFIs “based on an arbitrary GDP criteria established several decades ago.” The Minister called upon IFIs and the UN to address this issue expeditiously. In his closing remarks, Minister Virahsawmy stated that Mauritius urges the international community to enhance the global environmental institutional architecture to support the implementation of sustainable development intiatives and to develop and adopt a set of new SDGs to follow the MDGs post 2015 in guiding progress towards achieving equitable and ambitious development for all nations.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Mauritius, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has committed to the following actions:

1. Increasing the share of renewable energy (including solar power, wind energy, hydro power, bagasse and landfill gas) to around 35% by 2025

2. Removal of barriers impeding the development of renewable energy

3. Use of innovative renewable energy technologies

4. Promoting and monitoring energy efficiency measures across all sectors

5. Democratizing energy supply and promoting the participation of Small Independent Power Producers in electricity generation using renewable resources.

6. Promoting sustainable buildings and conducting energy audits of public buildings

7. Adopting product labeling and energy efficiency standards

• In partnership with GEF and UNDP, Mauritius has volunteered to update its National Implementation Plan to include new Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) for better control and disposal of POPs. Furthermore, all PCB oils in transformers will be identified and disposed of.

• Mauritius, in partnership with GEF, SIDS/Dock and UNDP has committed to an accumulated total of 300,000 tonnes CO2eq reduction of GHG emissions through a transformation of the building energy efficiency market for existing and new buildings and an energy saving framework for industry by 2020

• Mauritius, in partnership with Mega Design and NIRAS has committed to the development of water resources to provide for an uninterrupted supply of potable water, to meet the need of raw water for irrigation purposes and to maintain the environmental flow reserve by adapting to climate change throughout a planning scope up to the year 2050.

• The ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development in collaboration with the Ministry of Agro Industry and Food Security will work to increase forest tree cover. It is envisaged that this target will be achieved through the implementation of a re-afforestation programme of the public beaches and ex-tea belts on the central plateaus along with extended surveillance of protected areas by more than 80% - inclusive of private lands by 2020. It is planned that the outcomes will be achieved through amendment of relevant legislations, budgetary allocation to sectoral line ministries and private sector participation. The target of one million trees planted across Mauritius by 2020 has also been put forth.

• Mauritius will aim to increase food and agricultural production through innovative production methods along with novel products development while opening access to new markets by 2015.

• The foundations of an Ocean Economy will be laid by expanding the country’s spatial boundaries, developing scientific knowledge and business opportunities and accessing natural and mineral resources over the waters and subsoil of the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf by 2022.

• GEF and UNDP in partnership with Mauritius have committed to achieve the placement of at least 25% of Mauritian terrestrial area within a representative and viable Protected Area Network by 2030.

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NAURU

H.E. Marlene Moses
Ambassador, Permanent Representative to the United Nations
Head of Delegation

In her opening remarks Ambassador Moses stressed the notion of Nauru and countries like it having weathered the global financial crisis, spikes in food and energy and climate change; disasters which vulnerable countries bear almost no responsibility yet “pay the biggest price.” Ms. Moses further iterated that the “fruits of globalization” have not been shared equitably as private fortunes were being made while the world’s citizens struggled to provide for their basic needs. She further outlined a distortion in priorities whereby a handful of governments have “mobilized trillions of dollars to save a small number of corporations.” while there is a clear failure to protect the vulnerable from humanitarian catastrophe. Ms. Moses stated that some countries have been forced to seek alternative forums to address their needs and that those international institutions “we have established seem ill equipped to address the challenges before us.” The Ambassador welcomed the inclusion of the “Blue Economy” in the Outcome Document along with the need to address ocean acidification. She further highlighted the importance of SIDS becoming a model for sustainable development at the next SIDS conference in 2014 and that this should build upon the declaration by AOSIS at the Barbados Declaration 2012; to significantly increase the supply of renewable energy in SIDS.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Nauru, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has voluntarily committed to:

1. Medium to long term - at least 50% of energy demand provided by alternative sources of energy, including through renewable sources by 2015.

2. Long term milestone - viable power generating capacity including alternative renewable energy sources by 2025.

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PALAU

Statement by His Excellency Mr. Sebastian MARINO, National Environmental Planner of the Office of the President of Palau

Mr. Marino concentrated his initial remarks on the effects climate change was having on his country and that climate change was affecting every pillar of sustainable development in Palau. Tracking rising global emissions was not only part of “the future we want, it is what we need to survive.” An outline was given of steps Palau has taken to reduce emissions such as having solarised its airport, government buildings and highways and implemented a “successful green mortgages programme.” By 2020, it is anticipated 20% of the country’s energy will be sourced from renewable supplies. In regards to oceans, the Mr. Marino referred to working alongside partners in the Parties to the Nauru Agreement to achieve sustainable fisheries with moves such as conserving 58% of the country’s inshore area, banning bottom trawling and declaring the world’s largest shark sanctuary. In closing, Mr. Marino offered his support to the convening of the Third International Conference for Sustainable Development of SIDS in 2014 in the Pacific.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• The governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, UNDP in collaboration with Palau have committed to a vision for a reliable and resilient energy sector delivering sustainable low emission energy services by:

1. Providing clear policy direction on the future of Palau’s energy sector

2. Appropriate regulations to secure energy services at competitive prices

3. Maximizing cost efficient energy efficiency and renewable energy resources and conservation of energy wile safeguarding the environment

4. Promoting environmentally sustainable energy technologies with the aim to substitute fossil fuels

5. Supporting consumers through the transition towards renewable energy

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

H.E Mr. Robert G. Aisi
Permanent Representative of Papua New Guinea to the United Nations
and Chairman of Delegation

In his initial remarks, Mr. Aisi gave the support of his country for the adoption of the Rio+20 Outcome Document and welcomed the idea of SDGs while at the same time calling on the international community to remain committed to the work of the MDGs. Mr. Aisi went on to outline the economic growth which Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been experiencing in the past decade through large investment flows which has helped the government to direct some US$2 billion towards priority areas of health, education, infrastructure and law and order. Mr. Aisi however admitted that despite positive economic growth, PNG was struggling to translate revenues into improved socio-economic and environmental sustainability indicators. Mr. Aisi made reference to PNG’s “poor social indicators” in the 2009 UN Human Development Index (HDI) and that the country was working towards improving its HDI standing in its PNG Vision 2050 strategy. Like other SIDs, while PNG adopts the Green Economy, it also recognizes the importance of the Blue Economy. Mr. Aisi, welcomed the work of the World Bank and the U.K. Government on their intiative to introduce the convept of Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) and that PNG would be . . . “happy to actively participate in its further elaboration.”

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SAMOA

Address by His Excellency Tuilaepa Sailele MALIELEGAOI, Prime Minister of the Independent State of Samoa

Prime Minister Malielegaoi in his opening remarks assured that the Rio Outcome Document gave Samoa a level of comfort to lend its support for its adoption. The Prime Minister emphasised that real success of the Outcome Document was in how . . . “we localize these goals and implement them with the help of our development partners.” In reference to Samoa’s dependency on agricultural production, the Prime Minister outlined steps the country was taking to move away from environmentally depleting agricultural practices and towards organic agricultural norms. In regards to energy, Samoa is committed to an ambitious renewable energy programme and the country anticipates being carbon neutral in its energy sector by 2020. In reference to oceans, the Prime Minister iterated that the prospects of mineral resources in the ocean seabed within EEZs and adjacent high seas offers new prospects for an expanded economic resource base for Pacific SIDS. Continuing with the theme of oceans, Mr. Malielegaoi stated that the conservation and sustainable management of ocean resources should be conditional on “our member states receiving greater economic returns from the utilization of their marine resources than at present.” The Prime Minister emphasised that this required a stronger global commitment to its [oceans] sustainable management and development through a “Green Economy in a Blue World.” In closing, the Prime Minister stated that in 2014, Samoa is due to graduate from LDC status – the first in the Pacific to do so – and this would combine effectively with the offer by Samoa to host The Third United Nations Conference on the Sustainable Development of SIDS.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Samoa, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has committed to:

1. Increase the contribution of Renewable Energy to total energy by 20% by the year 2030.

2. Promoting energy efficiency practices in all sectors

3. Increase Public and Private investment on Renewable Energy in transport fuels and electricity generation.

4. Energy regulatory function established.

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SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS

Address by His Excellency Denzil Douglas, Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis

Prime Minister Douglas in his opening remarks emphasised the importance of developed countries taking action to enact commitments which they have previously made and taking into account the socio-economic and environmental imperatives in conformity with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. The Prime Minister also alluded to the need to focus on the Green Economy – of critical importance to Saint Kitts and the CARICOM region - poverty eradication and low carbon development at Rio+20. Mr. Douglas raised the issue of the exclusion of Taiwan, stating that environmental threats are not confined to political boundaries and he strongly urged that Taiwan be afforded the opportunity to participate in negotiations on sustainable development. In reference to the convening of a Third United Nations Conference for the Sustainable Development of SIDS, the Prime Minister offered the full support of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The Prime Minister went further to urge the establishment of frameworks to facilitate the implementation of commitments made in Rio+20 and he strongly encouraged public/private sector partnerships including renewed commitment from developed partner countries to provide concrete financial resources to support implementation strategies in developing countries.

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SAINT LUCIA

Statement by His Excellency Honourable James Fletcher, Minister for Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology of Saint Lucia

Minister Fletcher, in his opening remarks, expressed that while the special case of SIDS has long been recognized, there was a need to reiterate that the vulnerability of small island economies was being compounded by the global financial crisis. In the case of St. Lucia, the country is suffering from “uncomfortable” levels of high unemployment, an increasing debt burden and intergenerational poverty. The Minister iterated that it was unreasonable to expect “countries like ours” to be able to take responsive action to the extent as “some of our more fortunate global village neighbours.” In this regard, the government of Saint Lucia fully supports the inclusion of common but differentiated responsibilities being included in the Outcome Document. The Minister, in reference to the Green Economy, stated that there was a need to conduct a ‘follow up’ to Rio+20 that would focus on developing economic models to support sustainable development. The issues to be considered in such a ‘follow up’ include: consumption, economic valuations on natural resources, social equity and good governance. Climate change was also a major focal point of the Minister’s address in which he outlined sea-level rise and ocean acidification as having particularly negative impacts on the livelihoods of fishing communities, the tourism sector and the agricultural sector; major areas of dependency for the country’s economy. He therefore opined that “the future we want” is one where commitments are made at the highest levels to respond to the challenges of climate change that must include ocean governance and indeed technology transfer were of vital importance. The Minister made specific calls to strengthen the international framework for sustainable development and iterated that his government wished to see continuation in the review on monitoring of commitments regarding the MDGs, the Barbados Plan of Action and the Mauritius Strategy.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Saint Lucia, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has committed to the achievement of targets which include:
1. Increase the contribution of renewable energy to the national energy supply by 20% by 2020 and support the development of indigenous energy sources.

2. To reduce the consumption of electricity in the public sector by 20% by 2020.

The steps outlined above will be achieved by promoting energy efficiency at all levels and in all sectors at the national level. The achievements will arise as a result of:

1. Strengthening the institutional and legal framework for sustainable energy.

2. Developing and implementing standards and guidelines for energy efficient products.

3. Developing and establishing a suite of fiscal measures and a financing mechanism for greater penetration of sustainable energy technologies and products.

4. Facilitating capacity building, innovation, research and development for sustainable energy.

5. By implementing a comprehensive sustainable energy education and awareness programme.

6. By providing an enabling environment for sustainable energy that simultaneously allows the private sector to generate business opportunities that are consistent with the Green Economy Concept.

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SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

H.E. La Celia Prince
Ambassador of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the USA and
Permanent Representative to the Organisation of American States

Ambassador Prince iterated the importance of SIDS remaining a ‘special case’ and given this, finance, capacity building and technology transfer are essential. With regards to the principles of the Green Economy, the Ambassador stressed a ‘one size fits all’ approach should not be used to supersede the existing goals of sustainable development and that under. . . “no circumstances should a subjective application of ill-defined green economy principles be used as a conditionality clause against developing countries or as a justification for the imposition of unfair barriers to trade.” With priority being given to renewable energy, the Ambassador stressed that financing and technology transfer were key to implementation especially in light of Green Economy and Sustainable Development Goals that . . . “would entail additional financial burdens . . .” for developing countries.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has committed to:

1. Reduce projected increase in peak demand by 5% by 2015 and 10% by 2010 and strive to reduce power losses down to a total of 7% by 2015 and 5% by 2020.

2. Deliver 30% of projected total electricity output from Renewable Energy Sources (RES) by 2015 and 60% by 2020.

3. Increase energy security and diversify the energy portfolio

4. Reduce projected consumption of fossil fuels in the transport sector by 10% by 2015 and 15 % by 2020.

5. Reduce projected electricity generation by 5% by 2012 and 15% by 2020.

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SEYCHELLES

Vice President of the Republic of Seychelles Honorable Danny Faure

In Vice President Faure’s address, he emphasised that without the support from the international community in the development and adaptation of favourable conditions for SIDS, it would be extremely difficult to make progress to eradicating poverty and adoption of a low carbon economy. Seychelles fully supports the move towards a Blue Economy; however the Vice president iterated that the model of adoption must be done on a case by case basis which would lead towards sustainability. The issue of piracy was highlighted as a major challenge for island states of the Indian Ocean whereby Mr Faure appealed to the international community to continue supporting the affected countries by using all measures available to ensure the safe use of the Indian Ocean and the safe passage of ships in the region. With natural disasters being of significant impact to the island states of the Indian Ocean, the Vice President iterated that “we cannot and should not wait for the necessary commitments within the UNFCCC to be made,” and thus a decision has been reached to establish a work programme with other Indian Ocean island states to address the challenges faced by the relevant countries. As the current president of the Indian Ocean Commission, Seychelles calls for more support for regional organisations including small island states of the Caribbean, Pacific an Indian Ocean. As a final note, Mr. Faure pledged that his country would do everything possible that recommendations from the Rio+20 summit are taken forward to concrete and concerted actions.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:
Seychelles, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has voluntarily committed to:

1. Diversification of the energy mix by the use and promotion of renewable energy sources in all energy uses and services in all sectors, including electricity, cooling, transport, residential, commercial and industrial. Ultimately achieving the set target of 15% energy supply from renewable energy by 2030.

2. Provide the whole population with access to a safe, secure, affordable, reliable and high quality of energy services while ensuring environmental protection

3. Increase security of energy supply.

4. Promote efficient use of energy and conservation.

5. Strengthen the institutional and legal framework of the energy sector.

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SINGAPORE

Statement by His Excellency Vivian BALAKRISHNAN, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources of Singapore

Minister Balakrishnan in his opening remarks made mention of Agenda 21 and the Johannesburg Plan of Action along with the political support they enjoyed and in order for Rio+20 to succeed there was a need to make every decision count. The Minister emphasised that a one-size-fits-all approach to the Green Economy would not work given the various individual needs of countries and regions. Mr. Balakrishnan stated that Singapore fully supports the development of SDGs and that to support the global sustainable development agenda, all national strategies must be coordinated and supported by a forward-thinking governance regime. In reference to the UN, the Minister iterated that Singapore fully supports the global efforts aimed at enhancing the work of the UN bodies particularly with the integration of environmental, social and economic dimensions. The UN needs to take on the mandates given to them to set clear and visionary directions to guide all our countries on the long but certain path of achieving sustainable development. Furthermore, all countries should take a close look at their national policies and capabilities to take stock of how we can work together with the UN. In his closing remarks Minister Balakrishnan stated that it was important for all countries to look at ways to share best practices to achieve sustainable development.

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SOLOMON ISLANDS

Statement by
The Honourable Gordon Darcy Lilo, Prime Minister

Prime Minister Lilo opened by remarking on the special case of SIDS and that it was critical to ensure SIDS were represented in processes including the SDG Steering Committee. Mr. Lilo also welcomed the decision to convene the Third Sustainable Development Conference on SIDS in the Pacific region in 2014. Prime Minister Lilo elaborated on the importance of an agreement being reached under the UNFCCC negotiations to keep global temperatures below 1.5 degrees Celscius and he went further to emphasise that SIDS . . . “must not bee seen as expendable . . . nor should they be regarded as collateral damage because of global inaction.” The Prime Minister welcomed the call by SIDS to build upon the political momentum gained at Rio for a ministerial summit on the margins of UNGA 67 session. The Prime Minister outlined steps that both the Solomon Islands and fellow SIDS in the Pacific have taken to meet commitments for sustainable development, an example of which was the collaboration by Pacific SIDS to close off 4.5 million square kilometres of high seas from purse seine fishing under the auspices of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement. In closing Prime Minister Lilo offered the Solomon Islands’ unreserved support for the Rio outcome document.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

Solomon Islands, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has voluntarily committed to:

1. Replace current use of imported fossil fuel for electricity generation by 100% by Year 2030;

2. Increase access to reliable, affordable and stable electricity grid by 50% from the current 12% by Year 2030;

3. Reduce the price of electricity by half the present tariff rate by 2020;
4. Increase access to Solar-Home-Systems by remote rural dwellers located far from electricity grid from current 8.7% to 30% by Year 2020.

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SURINAME

Statement by His Excellency Ginmardo KROMOSOETO, Minister for Spatial Planning, Land and Forest Management of Suriname

In reference to progress thus far since the Earth Summit of ’92, Minister Kromosoeto expressed disappointment at progress that has been achieved “leaving us in agony of serious doubt on our own ability to be creative and bring necessary solutions to the challenges facing the survival of our own species.” He further elaborated his disappointment in that while some developing countries have managed to become “major economic players,” the disparity amongst countries at all levels has increased because of “our reluctance to act collectively on the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.” The Minister also expressed disappointment in the progress of achieving the MDGs. Despite the shortcomings in progress, Mr. Kromosoeto reaffirmed Suriname’s commitment to sustainable development and the Minister was pleased to announce that a citizen of his country had taken up the post of Secretary General of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation (ACTO). The Minister welcomed the decision in the Outcome Document to phase out the use of mercury in small scale artisanal gold mining and was also pleased with the decision to convene the Third International Convention on SIDS in 2014. The Minister affirmed that his country would participate fully in the development and design of SDGs. In his concluding remarks, Mr. Kromosoeto expressed the disagreement of the Suriname government that given their positive economic growth, industrialised countries and IFIs have used this as a reason for denying access to concessional loans.

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TIMOR-LESTE

Statement by His Excellency Jose RAMOS-HORTA, Special Envoy of Timor-Leste

Mr. Horta outlined Timor-Leste’s ratification of the UNFCCC, UNCBD and UNCCD and in response to these conventions, the Ministry of Economy and Development has produced action plans and strategies to meet international obligations and sustainable development. Furthermore, Mr. Horta outlined areas in which his country has worked to increase its capacity in dealing with sustainable development including: the establishment of a National Strategic Development Plan, the approval of a base law on the environment and the establishment of the National Development Agency. In conclusion, Mr. Horta stated that Timor-Leste is currently promoting renewable energy use for rural communities and at the same time tackling poverty and initiating low carbon development.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

Timor-Leste, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has committed that:

1. By 2020 power generation – 50% of energy would be produced by renewable energy.

2. By 2030 all families will have access to electricity 24 hours a day.

3. By 2030 approximately all 100,000 families will have access to solar energy.

4. By 2015 there will no household (family) in the capital city using firewood for cooking.

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TONGA

Statement by
His Excellency Sonatane Tu’akinamolahi Taumoepeau Tupou
Chairman of Delegation

Mr. Tupou, in his opening remarks, stated the alignment of Tonga with the statement delivered by Algeria on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. He went on to welcome the proposal to convene a Third International Conference for Sustainable Development for SIDS, a critical milestone in achieving the MDGs and indeed within that process a strengthened UN system responsive to the needs of SIDS is imperative. Mr. Tupou highlighted the adverse impacts of climate change on SIDS and in this context there was a need to advance the next UNFCC meeting in Qatar which needed to improve implementations for countries like Tonga through financing, technology transfer and capacity building. In reference to the Blue Economy, Mr. Tupou welcomed the focus being put on sustainable fisheries and the role of UNCLOS in highlighting sustainable development through provisions on marine research and resource management.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

Tonga, in partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP has committed to:

1. Reduce Tonga’s greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy security through 50% renewable energy mix in the Energy Transformation sector by the end of the Tonga Energy Roadmap 2010-2020 [TERM] implementation period.

2. Improve efficiency of electricity supply and demand sides by 18% by the end of the TERM implementation period.

3. Ensure all Tongans have access to clean, reliable and affordable energy services by the end of TERM implementation period.

4. Establish phased comprehensive set of action plans to put in place a long term institutional arrangement which provides strong leadership and coordination of energy sector activities.

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TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Address by his Excellency Hamza Rafeeq, Chairman of Delegation of Trinidad and Tobago.

Chairman of the Delegation of Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Hamza Rafeeq, began his address by affirming that his country would commit to integrating the outcomes of the Rio+20 conference to his country’s national development strategy. He outlined steps currently being taken by Trinidad and Tobago to diversify its economy in light of green economic potential such as in agriculture, tourism, manufacturing and energy. Continuing on the theme of energy the Ambassador stated that his country was well under way to producing 100% of its energy from natural gas and that it would become second in the world after Qatar to achieve such a feat. Mr. Rafeeq stressed that any new intergovernmental bodies such as a new Sustainable Development Council should only be created with a clear understanding that they would improve on existing deficiencies of entities such as the Commission on Sustainable Development. Together with its CARICOM neighbours, the Ambassador offered support for the strengthening of UNEP provided that in so doing, no additional bureaucratic layers are added nor any additional reporting requirements on SIDS be implemented.

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TUVALU

Address by His Excellency Willy Telavi, Prime Minister of Tuvalu

Prime Minister Telavai in his address at Rio+20, elaborated the importance of the sustainable management of oceans as a vital aspect on the “only livelihoods” for his country. In this light, the Prime Minister stressed that “a green economy to us . . . is actually a ‘blue economy’” as the country continues to rely heavily on the sustainable management and responsible use of oceans. Furthermore, Mr. Telavai elaborated his views that the UN Committee for Development Policy’s recommendation for Tuvalu to graduate from the LDC category, was a “grave and untimely mistake” given Tuvalu’s economic fragility and the current global economic crisis.

In the context of the Secretary General’s initiative on Sustainable Energy for All, the following voluntary pledges were made:

• Tuvalu voluntarily pledged to consolidate commitments regarding its energy portfolio. In partnership with the Governments of Australia, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and UNDP, Tuvalu has voluntarily committed to:

1. Power Generation – 100% renewable energy by 2020

2. Implementation Principles
- Solar PV 60 – 95% of demand
- Wind 0 – 40% of demand (if feasible)
- Biodiesel 5% of demand (import)
- Energy Efficiency – improvements of 30% of current annual demand of Funafuti.

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VANUATU

Address by His Excellency Meltek Sato Kilman Livtuvanu, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu

Prime Minister Livtuvanu’s opening remarks expressed the hope of his delegation that “we will move away from a reactive style of managing development that has only produced short term band aid solutions.” The Prime Minister also expressed that his delegation was pleased given the fact that Rio+20 has recognized the sustainable development priorities of SIDS along with the reaffirmation of the special case for SIDS. Mr. Livtuvanu expressed gratitude to the G77 plus China “family” for their ongoing support of SIDS issues. The Prime Minister expressed his intent to mobilize resources including technology to build capacity towards achieving sustainable development in Vanuatu. Mr. Livtuvanu urged all development partners to help facilitate the implementation of the Outcome Document “so that it does not become just another declaration.” In relation to oceans, it was expressed that a key focus of Vanuatu’s presence at Rio+20 was to promote efforts related the sustainable development of the Pacific Ocean and that a Green Economy will be possible with the presence of a “blue backbone”. In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister called on all parties to respond to the challenges being faced by the world based on “our common but differentiated responsibilities,” and in addition, there was a need for a global effort to move from declaration to actual implementation of the outcomes for Rio+20.

 

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