Thematic Discussions: Meeting growing needs for energy services through increased use of renewable energy, greater reliance on advanced energy technologies, including advanced and fossil fuel technologies (cont.)
Wednesday, 3 May 2006, 3:00-6:00
Conference Room 4
Intervention: Thank you Mr. Chairman, for the opportunity to share the youth perspective.
One of the key barriers we have identified is the inherent cost of efficient and clean transportation for all countries, but in particular for developing nations.
The cost of a heavily polluting diesel bus is fractional compared to new and less polluting electric, hybrid, and fuel cell technologies. A major barrier is the purchase and operation costs of modern public transit systems which will address air pollution. The representatives from several countries, including Senegal and Pakistan, made this assertion.
As youth, we are frustrated when see new infrastructure purchases which do not meet sustainable standards and will have a long lifetime. Decisions of this kind, while understandable due to high costs of the cleaner alternative options, will greatly slow the transition to a sustainable, pollution free future. Busses stay in operation for 20-30 years, delaying any progress in transportation by that much more.
We feel very strongly that new purchases that have such a long-term impact should be made with modern values of efficiency and pollution in mind.
Finding solution to the high cost of purchasing and operating clean and efficient technologies particularly in developing countries should be a major priority in coming discussions.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Presented by Adam Scott (Canada) from the Children and Youth chair.