Earth Today | ‘Embrace renewables’

AHEAD OF Earth Day 2026, which had as its theme ‘Our Power, Our Planet’, leaders from small island states have championed the use of sustainable energy sources as part of the solution to the current instability affecting energy markets.

“The current crisis in the Middle East is a stark reminder of why nations must strive for energy independence. Continued dependence on fossil fuels, a finite and volatile resource, exposes economies to shocks, deepens insecurity, and drives current and future impacts on the livelihoods of small island developing states and all vulnerable communities,” said an April 20 statement from the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS).

AOSIS has, since 1990, represented the interests of 39 small island and low-lying coastal developing states in international climate change and sustainable development negotiations. The group issued the statement on the eve of the 17th Petersberg Climate Dialogue, held in Berlin, Germany between April 21 and 22. The Petersberg Climate Dialogue brings states together to discuss upcoming climate talks and to lay the foundation for common solutions to climate challenges.

“The case for advancing to more sustainable energy sources has never been more clear. Renewable energy capacity is rising rapidly, accounting for nearly half of global power capacity at the end of last year,” it said.

“Economically viable and practical solutions already exist, and the benefits of embracing them are undeniable, including stronger energy security, lower costs, cleaner air, and more resilient societies,” AOSIS added.

The ongoing use of conventional or non-renewable sources such as coal, oil and gas, produce greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide and methane, which are responsible for global warming. Global warming, in turn triggers a series of climate change impacts, including extreme hurricane events and flooding, the likes of which have devastated sections of the Caribbean over the last several years.

Last October, Jamaica, for example, was left reeling following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, a category 5 storm that claimed lives and livelihoods, caused billions of dollars in damage and left the economy nursing deep wounds.

AOSIS said it is now more important than ever that countries work to fulfil their obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement.

“If countries do not keep their commitments, raise ambition, and get serious about implementation, our world will be plunged into deepening insecurity,” AOSIS predicted.

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