Africa Ecological Footprint Report

Page 62

The three main drivers for increased footprint in Africa

Put clean / renewable energies at the heart of a green economy

demand for energy, and urbanization. With its relatively low per capita footprint, Africa is well-placed to develop

In view of the urgent need to provide access to clean and reliable energy for households, businesses and industry, energy will take centre stage in the low-carbon economy of the future. Investment in low-carbon energy development provides opportunities for job creation, innovation and entrepreneurship as well as increased productivity and competitiveness.

regions by using known and cost-effective technologies. Š Martin Harvey / WWF-Canon

The following measures can help secure reliable energy access in a carbon and footprint Developing a long-term vision for Africa’s and renewable energies. Promoting national and regional planning to enable mainstream investment in lowcarbon energy supply and distribution at local, national and regional scales. Establishing national targets to bring an end to energy poverty and vulnerability by achieving 100 per cent access to safe, clean and affordable energy services by 2030. Promoting clean development and contributing to global emissions reduction efforts, by side and encouraging a culture of energy saving on the demand side. Water collection on the outskirts of Nairobi, Kenya

62

Increasing the contribution of clean renewable energy sources and paying close attention to environmental and social externalities of energy production. Investing in sustainable biomass supply and utilization through multi-purpose agro-forestry, digesters. Adopting, enforcing and complying with laws, regulations, policies and standards on sustainable hydropower, including with integration, and public participation in decision-making. Adopting and adapting leapfrogging technologies and promoting technology cooperation. Invest in sustainable urban lifestyles By 2050, over 60 per cent of Africa’s population will live in urban areas and there is an urgent existing and new cities; to reduce the footprint intensity of GDP; and to manage the impact of footprint on surrounding areas. Greening of investment, but can bear dividends in terms of the well-being of citizens, enabling them to contribute effectively to social and economic development.


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.