Copyright ahotoronline
Africa is facing a heavy burden from climate change, even though it contributes much less to global emissions compared to richer countries. Dr. Patrick Essien, Deputy Director of the Mining Department, said in an interview on Ahotor FM’s Adekyee Mu Nsem that Africa produces only 3 to 4 percent of the world's carbon emissions, which is similar or higher than some places like Asia and Iceland. However, Africa suffers the most because of its location near the equator and its limited ability to handle the effects of climate change. Many Africans cannot afford to use air conditioning to escape the extreme heat caused by climate change. On the other hand, richer regions like Europe and North America produce much more pollution but have the resources to protect themselves from the effects. This shows an unfair situation where poor countries suffer more even though they cause less damage. Dr. Essien also criticized the United States for being the largest producer of carbon emissions while refusing to accept climate change. He said this is unfair because countries with less power in the world, like many African nations, are the ones facing the worst consequences. He pointed out that the countries that hold veto power in the United Nations Security Council, such as the US, block efforts to take strong action on climate change. At the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, President John Dramani Mahama spoke about the urgent need to change how the UN works. He said the system is old and unfair, especially the Security Council, which gives too much power to a few countries. President Mahama warned that the world is losing the fight against climate problems like rising sea levels, desertification, and deforestation because of this unfair system. He also criticized US President Donald Trump for ignoring climate change. President Mahama’s speech and Dr. Essien’s interview both show that richer countries need to take more responsibility and help poorer countries deal with climate change. Only by working together and sharing responsibility can the world protect those who suffer the most from the effects of climate change. Source: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
