Gustau Manez, Project Manager, UNEP, France talks about how are UNEP is helping to bring about more energy efficient technologies in developing countries.
He says the UNEP is working with 55 countries across the world to put in place minimum energy standards.
Manez says the world must reduce inefficient lighting technologies, which is responsible for approximately 15% of global electricity consumption.
He says the UNEP is therefore helping developing countries move to energy efficient appliances – including lighting, air conditioners and fridges – which will save approximately 10% of the world’s electricity consumption – almost equivalent to the entire electricity consumption of European Union.
Energy efficiency, Manez says, is the cheapest and easiest way to reduce energy consumption and therefore to mitigate climate change.
He explains why the EU, China and the USA are great examples of promoting energy efficiency. Their example, he says, can give ideas to developing countries over how to implement energy efficiency practices as well.
But, Manez says developing countries are also leading the way in promoting energy efficiency too: Ghana was the first country in Africa – and the second country in the world – to phase out inefficient lamps in 2005.
Manez talks about why changing people’s behaviour will also be important in reducing electricity consumption. He says, in order to tackle this, education is needed as well as market reform which can happen through pricing, tax reforms, subsidies, rebates and incentives – all of which can help to contribute to changing people’s behaviour and the way market operates in the long-term.
He concludes by saying energy efficiency needs to be a top priority at the climate change negotiations because it is the easiest measure to implement in the fight against climate change. The UNEP, he adds, has shown the way, but it needs the support of the international community.