COP27: SGI Europe calls to remain committed to the climate agenda

Today, the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) starts in Sharm el-Sheikh (Egypt). Gathering global leaders and international stakeholders, the 2-week event will aim at taking forward the fight against climate change.

Just like last year, the climate talks are overshadowed in 2022 by multiple crises – such as the Russian war in Ukraine, the raw materials shortages and the economic crisis – putting at risk the global efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change. in this highly deteriorated context, SGI Europe calls upon leaders to remain committed to the agreed climate agenda and its timeline, via binding climate commitments agreed by all parties.

Europe is now in the eye of climate change. A recent report from the World Meteorological Organisation highlights that “Europe presents a live picture of a warming world and reminds us that even well-prepared societies are not safe from impacts of extreme weather events”. One of the fastest-heating regions in the world, with temperatures rising over twice the global average in the last 30 years, Europe is now at threat because of climate changes. Dramatic floodings killed 243 across the continent in July 2021. Record-breaking heatwaves were recorded in 2022, with temperatures rising up to 47C in Portugal and an estimated 53,000 excess deaths. Dramatic events are becoming more frequent, and the trend is not expected to slow down.

In the face of those looming threats, the contribution of public services and services of general interest (SGIs) must be better recognised, as they are central to building resilience against economic, social and environmental shocks. SGIs are the backbone of our society and our economy, ensuring the supply of essential services and infrastructures to citizens and enterprises. Providing energy and water, low-carbon mobility, while managing our waste and wastewater and running our hospitals and social services: SGIs are key to healthy socio-economic development and must be a top priority for investment strategies to remain resilient to climate change.

Making this a reality requires long-term planning and investments, as well as commitment and strong political support from the international community and local governments.

Beyond the statements, concrete commitments and strategies must be put in place to make the energy and transport transitions a reality. Faster permitting for renewable technologies and direct investments in upgrading energy infrastructures and the energy market must become a reality. Shifting transportation modes of goods towards rail freight and creating more connection points for public transport will immediately accelerate the path towards climate neutrality. Also, preventative measures must be better recognised, including via a transversal application of the “Polluter pays” principle to prevent pollution at the source.