𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝟮𝟯𝗿𝗱 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

Prime Minister James Marape has reiterated his stance that large carbon emitters hold a “moral obligation and the bigger responsibility” when it comes to addressing the ongoing climate crisis. This was stated during a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, where he responded to questions regarding the implications of former President Donald Trump’s withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement.

In a dialogue facilitated by New York Times journalist David Gelles, PM Marape was asked how this withdrawal is perceived in Papua New Guinea, a country recognized for its rich biodiversity, tropical forests, and significant ocean resources that serve as vital carbon sinks. This question comes at a time when the management of climate change is a growing global concern.

Prime Minister Marape emphasized that it is incumbent upon the largest carbon producers to take greater responsibility, especially as they contribute significantly to global emissions while nations like Papua New Guinea bear the brunt of climate impacts despite having a smaller carbon footprint. He remarked, “While it is not my place to advise the government of America, it is prudent that the biggest holder of carbon footprint takes the greater responsibility because much of the burden is being borne by those of us with the least carbon footprint.”

The Prime Minister called for a shift in perspective among global leaders, urging them to prioritize global interests over national agendas. He stated, “There is a moral responsibility by each global leader to think from the global perspective instead of from their own national-interest perspective,” underscoring the urgency of the climate situation. Marape warned that “we are at a tipping point, almost reaching the end of Earth’s sustainability level. If this planet sinks, we all sink with it. There is no second Earth.”

As the conversation shifted towards sustainable resource management, PM Marape highlighted Papua New Guinea’s significant potential in clean energy, forestry, and marine resources, asserting that “PNG has a lot of clean energy alternatives.” He expressed optimism about the country’s role in the upcoming Asian century, stating their readiness to contribute to forest resource management and the sustainable management of oceans.

“The ocean is 70 percent of the planet,” he noted, emphasizing the crucial role it plays in global environmental health. Through collaboration and innovation in sustainable practices, PM Marape aims to establish Papua New Guinea as a key player in global efforts to combat climate change and promote ecological stewardship. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19rsUFVyJ