In a world increasingly threatened by climate change, the need for immediate action has never been clearer. According to the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, we have viable and effective options for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to human-induced climate change – and they are available now.
The GNPW Group, holder of the concession for two photovoltaic plants under construction in the municipalities of Altos and Campo Maior, is focused on harnessing the power of the sun to generate clean and renewable energy. With a total of 10MW of installed capacity, these plants not only do not emit polluting gases, but also have low maintenance costs, which implies significant savings in energy consumption contracts under the Public Private Partnership.
From its subsidiary, Eva Energia, Grupo GNPW and Grupo Urca Energia invest in the development of sustainable and environmentally responsible energy generation projects. Eva Energia generates energy from biogas from pig farming waste and landfills. These projects not only minimize our dependence on fossil fuels, but also promote the circular economy by turning waste into valuable resources.
These companies are working to slow the pace of global warming which, as the IPCC report highlights, has led to an increase of 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels, resulting in more frequent and intense extreme weather events. By adopting renewable energy sources such as solar and biogas, we are adapting to this new climate reality and helping to mitigate the negative impacts of these changes.
The challenge of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as recommended by the IPCC, requires a deep, rapid and sustained reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across all sectors. This implies a significant transformation of our energy, transportation and food production systems, among others.
The photovoltaic plants in Piauí and Eva Energia’s biogas projects represent significant steps in this direction. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, these projects also provide additional benefits. For example, clean energy improves air quality and benefits health, especially for women and children. Furthermore, low-carbon electrification, such as that generated by these plants, can improve the quality of life for many people, providing employment opportunities and promoting equality.
But while developing clean, renewable energy is a crucial part of the solution to climate change, we also need to think about how we can adapt to the changes that are already taking place. This means protecting our ecosystems, which are essential for absorbing CO2, and ensuring that our cities are able to withstand extreme weather events.
This requires political commitment, coordinated policies, international cooperation, responsible ecosystem management and inclusive governance. After all, as the IPCC notes, climate change does not affect everyone equally. Those communities that have contributed least to the problem are often the most affected, which highlights the need for a climate justice approach.
The GNPW Group is a clear example of how the private sector can play a crucial role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. However, it is important to emphasize that we all have a role to play in this fight. We can make more sustainable choices in our own lives, whether it’s reducing our energy consumption, recycling and composting our waste, or supporting companies that commit to environmentally responsible practices.
The solar energy and biogas initiatives are encouraging proof that the path to a sustainable future is within reach. If we all do our part, we can secure a livable future for future generations. As Hoesung Lee, President of the IPCC put it: “If we act now, we can still secure a sustainable and viable future for all”. Now is the time to act.
However, to make this a reality, we need more investment in clean and renewable energy technologies. As Christopher Trisos, one of the authors of the IPCC report, put it: “Accelerated climate action will only happen if there is a many times greater increase in funding. Insufficient and misaligned funding is holding back progress.” Therefore, it is essential that both the public and private sectors invest in climate solutions, such as those being implemented by GNPW.
Access to capital is one of the main challenges for the transition to a green economy. But according to the IPCC, sufficient global capital is available to rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions if existing barriers are lowered. Governments can play an important role in this process, providing public funding and sending clear signals to investors about the direction of the energy market.
However, it is essential that these climate solutions are not only effective, but also fair. As Aditi Mukherji, one of the authors of the IPCC report, noted: “Climate justice is crucial because those who have contributed least to climate change are being disproportionately affected.” We need to ensure that the benefits of transitioning to a low-carbon economy are shared equitably and that the most vulnerable are not left behind.
In this regard, solar power plants and biogas projects are playing a vital role. Not only are they reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping to fight climate change, they are also bringing tangible benefits to local communities. They are creating jobs, improving air quality and promoting local economic development.
In short, the path to a sustainable future is not an easy one. It requires concrete actions, political commitment, adequate funding and, above all, the will to make a difference. The GNPW Group is showing that this is possible and that we all have a role to play in this journey. The IPCC report made it clear: options are available and the time to act is now.
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