“Discussions over a green economy are always accompanied in the agenda by the question of the relationships between environmental protection and the economy. These are not contrasts, but are instead partners. Contemporary economic growth means that the environment is taken into greater consideration, as well as the development of new and economical solutions,” said Keit Pentus. The green economy is one of the main topics at the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe’s Seventh “Environment for Europe” Ministerial Conference, taking place in Astana, Kazakhstan. Keit Pentus said that there was great interest in Estonia’s experiences and plans at the conference focusing on specific examples. “Transport accounts for nearly 30% of the final consumption of energy, and this is the fastest growing sector. When searching for opportunities for savings, it is one of the key fields,” explained Pentus. “Estonia’s plan to promote the entry into use of e-cars running on energy produced from renewable energy sources, through the construction of a nationwide charging network, is one example.” According to the Minister of the Environment, Estonia has other inspirational examples to give. “The programme for increasing the energy efficiency of buildings, the use of IT solutions so that it conserves energy as well as time, the development of new technologies to reduce pollution – these are real examples of green economy.” In addition to the green economy, the sustainable management of water and water related ecosystem was discussed at the conference. “As opposed to several other countries participating in the conference, Estonia’s main concern is not a lack of water, which is becoming increasingly critical in many areas of the world,” said the Minister of the Environment. “Over the last 20 years we have done significant work to make sure that our water economy is contemporary, and that people have access to clean water. Next year we will also be contributing EUR 90 million to water purification and sewerage systems. The fact that we are able to serve as an example today, and use our skills and experience to offer assistance to many other countries, is recognition of the work done by all of those people who have promoted the field of water in Estonia”. The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe was established in 1947 and it includes 56 European and neighbouring countries; historically, the United States of America and Canada have also been members of the organisation. The main objective of the Economic Commission is the economic integration of the region, although environmental questions also fall within its competence. |
