Pretoria, March 6 (Reuters) - Despite the United States' withdrawal, Britain's climate envoy emphasized the continued importance of adhering to the reductions laid out in the Paris Agreement. Rachel Kyte stated that the UK is steadfast in pursuing its targets.
With the recent withdrawal by the U.S. President, the world's second-largest emitter, from the agreement aiming to restrict global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius, Kyte stressed the necessity of staying the course in a statement to Reuters during her visit to Pretoria, South Africa. She highlighted the unchanging scientific consensus and the consistent direction taken by other countries.
Regarding comments made by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright singling out Britain for its clean energy targets, Kyte emphasized the interconnectivity between Britain's energy and food security and the necessity of effectively managing the climate crisis.
While acknowledging the regrettable exit of the United States from the agreement, Kyte underlined the UK's determination to press forward with its climate goals.
Addressing the reallocation of funds from green energy to defense spending by Britain this month, Kyte clarified that decisions on how funds will be allocated are pending. She emphasized the importance of effectively using public funds to attract private investments in driving the energy transition.
Reports confirm the United States' withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition Partnership meant to assist developing countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and South Africa in transitioning away from coal. Kyte noted the ongoing commitment of other partners in the initiative and the potential of capital deployment to attract commercial investments.