Dear Editor,
As the saying goes, a bird in hand is worth more than two in the bush. The current climate disaster being faced by the region is a very serious reminder of how fragile our region’s development is, and how vulnerable we all are to climate change. The intensity and size of the hurricanes and other climate related disasters are increasing, making it possible for our nation’s security to be at risk in the future. Given the current disaster in the region, it is now very opportune for us to revisit the proposal made to the United Nations via the Climate Change Conference.
We must, with a sense of urgency, clearly present our firm position that requires the United Nations to move forward with establishing meaningful compensation for the climate services provided by our forests. In addition, we must also propose the urgent need for the United Nations to establish a fund that will compensate countries if they choose to forsake some of their oil and gas reserves to aid in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
If the United Nations is unable to reach an acceptable agreement, or if they choose not to pursue moving in this direction, then we must do what is responsible and reduce the rate of production of our oil and gas sector. This will aid in reducing the emissions in the region and also reduce the negative impact our sector will have on localized climate change. It is a global problem, but the energy gained by the storms is also driven by what is available, and the increasing amount of energy being released into our environment in the form of heat needs to be limited.
The risk of an oil spill increases as the exposure to hurricanes increases. The recent statement by the government on the coverage being provided in the event of an oil spill is both timely and necessary. Whether it be by “An act of God” or by human error, we must continue to ensure that our partners in the oil and gas sector are legally bound to pay for the cleanup and economic loss that a major spill could cause. It is unclear from the government’s recent statement whether the obligation of our partners in the sector is legally binding for a worst case scenario oil spill. The financial amount of the coverage must be acceptable.
Guyana has been blessed with a beautiful climate and a healthy environment. We must consider what we may lose as we pursue the wealth gained by exploiting our oil and gas sector. The way in which we capitalize on these resources will have a direct impact on both Guyana and our Region. It is imperative that we choose wisely and do what will be in our nation’s best interest over the long term. Being successful at the United Nations in the pursuit of compensation for the climate services provided by our forests and compensation for oil and gas reserves will allow our nation’s continued development, while also helping to maintain the healthy environment in which we live today. This is where Guyana can show leadership and help alter the current course of humanity.
Sincerely,
Jamil Changlee
Chairman
The Cooperative Republicans of
Guyana