“Ethiopia, a developing country very sensitive to climate change, is trying to benefit from carbon trading (greenhouse gas emissions quota trading – ed.).”
This Oku.AzIn an interview with the minister of planning and development of Ethiopia Fitsum Assefa saying.
“We are sources of almost zero emissions and this can be considered our activity in the field of fighting climate change, which is why we want to participate in carbon trading,” said the minister.
He expressed hope that COP29 will enable all countries to create a better environment to benefit from carbon trading.
Fitsum Assefa also highlighted the need for a clearer definition of climate finance, as developed countries seek to include all development cooperation within this framework.
According to the minister, Ethiopia is facing various climate problems such as droughts, floods and landslides. Over the past five rainy seasons, the country has experienced droughts in the south and east, resulting in the loss of millions of livestock. Ethiopia’s food security is also at risk due to the impact of climate change on agriculture.
The Ethiopian government is actively investing in climate action. One of the main initiatives is a large-scale afforestation program: in six years, 40 billion young trees were planted in the country and it is expected that in 2026 this figure will reach 50 billion.
“In addition, Ethiopia is developing the production of heat-resistant wheat varieties, which has allowed the country to not only meet domestic demand, but also start exporting these products,” he added.
“In the energy sector, 100% of Ethiopia’s electricity comes from renewable sources: hydropower. The country also aims to ensure sustainable production and consumption thanks to electric vehicles. We burn fuel in the open and use only electric vehicles “This is a fight against climate change. It is one more step in this direction,” said the minister.
It is worth noting that the head of Ethiopia recently met with the president of Azerbaijan and climate initiatives were one of the areas of cooperation discussed.
“Despite the fact that the world often ignores this problem, Ethiopia continues to invest its resources in the fight against climate change,” concluded the minister.
Rufina Abdullayeva
