Allexer Namundjembo
United Nations (UN) climate change executive secretary Simon Stiell says global reliance on fossil fuels is driving rising costs and economic instability.
He said dependence on oil and gas is exposing economies to repeated shocks.
“Fossil fuels are driving a cost crisis for households, businesses and nations. Clean energy is the cure,” Stiell said on Monday.
He pointed to conflict in the Middle East as an example of the risks, saying it is disrupting energy markets and pushing up prices.
“War in the Middle East has exposed a brutal truth: fossil fuel dependency undermines countries’ sovereignty and security, placing food prices, household budgets, business costs and entire economies at the mercy of geopolitical shocks,” he said.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) said recent disruptions are among the most serious energy security threats in decades, with supply constraints pushing prices higher.
“These impacts are reverberating around the world. Rising prices for fuel, food and basic goods are eroding household purchasing power and straining economies everywhere,” he said.
In Africa, the World Food Programme warned that energy-driven price increases could push hunger to record levels this year.
In Namibia, rising costs for food, fuel and transport are increasing pressure on households and small businesses, especially in rural areas.
Stiell rejected calls to increase fossil fuel use in response to the crisis.
“Some argue that the appropriate response is to deepen reliance on fossil fuels. This approach defies both economic logic and common sense,” he said.
He said continued reliance will increase economic risks and speed up climate change.
“In Namibia, recurring climate shocks are putting increasing pressure on food systems, water availability and livelihoods,” he said.
He said fossil fuels still receive large subsidies, which continue to support their use.
Stiell said expanding clean energy is the best option.
“Solar and wind energy are not dependent on vulnerable shipping routes. Clean energy allows countries to strengthen economic resilience and energy security while also creating jobs, reducing pollution, improving public health and lowering costs.”
He pointed to Namibia’s investment in renewable energy and green hydrogen as part of efforts to grow the economy and improve energy security.
Global investment in clean energy reached more than US$2 trillion last year, about twice the amount spent on fossil fuels.
Fossil fuels still dominate global energy supply. Disruptions in oil and gas supply chains continue to affect prices for transport, electricity and food.
