Intervention by Sigríður Anna Þórðardóttir

Minister for the Environment, Iceland

Mr. President,

We have come here to Montreal to strengthen global commitments to tackle climate change. We have already taken a historic step, by making the Kyoto Protocol operational. It is a step worthy of applause, but much further efforts are needed.

The implementation of the Kyoto Protocol is a challenge for those countries that are required to limit their emissions of greenhouse gases. My country is no exception to that. Even if Iceland enjoys a unique situation among Annex I countries, in that 70 per cent of our total energy comes from renewable sources, we must limit emissions from transport and some other sources. We will comply with our Kyoto commitments, but strive to do even better.

Kyoto is a milestone, but it only addresses emissions in some countries for a limited period. Curbing greenhouse gases is a global challenge that requires broad participation and long-term solutions. In this context, Iceland is ready to engage in a process on the basis of Article 3.9. of the Kyoto Protocol. We need to attain real reductions in world emissions of greenhouse gases. Developed countries should and must continue to be in the lead. We do also need active engagement of developing countries, especially those experiencing rapid economic growth, in a partnership based on mutual understanding and sustainable development. A key element of such partnership must be a stronger effort to develop and transfer climate-friendly technology, not least in the field of renewable energy, and alternative fuels such as hydrogen.

Iceland’s emissions of greenhouse gases are small, in a global context, but we must all do our part. Iceland can make significant contributions to global efforts in combatting climate change. The utilization of Iceland’s clean and renewable energy sources is positive from a climate change perspective. Even more importantly, Iceland can help mitigate climate change by the export of technology and know-how in the fields of energy conservation and renewable energy.

Iceland already exports technology and expertise in geothermal energy. It is estimated that geothermal could bring clean and reliable power to hundreds of millions of people in many parts of the world, who either lack modern energy services or use fossil fuels. Are we taking full advantage of this opportunity? Are we doing all we can to ensure that the huge investment in energy infrastructure needed in the near future is directed towards clean and renewable energy, wherever this is viable?

In this context, and to live up to the promise we made at COP 7, I am pleased to report that my government has increased substantially development assistance in renewable energy, notably in the field of geothermal energy. Increases in support related to commitments in accordance to Article 4 of the Convention amounts to 1,2 million US dollars for the year 2005.

Thank you,