Eamon Ryan Urges Leaders to Fly to COP30 Despite Emissions Concerns

UPDATE: Eamon Ryan, former leader of the Green Party, has made a compelling case for world leaders to attend the upcoming COP30 climate conference in person, scheduled to take place in Brazil. Despite criticisms over the environmental impact of flying, Ryan argues that personal interactions are crucial for effective climate negotiations.

In an urgent statement on Moncrieff, Ryan acknowledged the hypocrisy surrounding the conference, where leaders often arrive via private jets while discussing the sacrifices ordinary citizens must make to combat climate change. He highlighted that aviation is responsible for an estimated 2.5% of global emissions, with 90% of the world’s population not flying at all in a given year.

Ryan stated, “There’s a valid question about the carbon footprint of all of us who are engaged in climate change work as to why do you have to fly. The reason is because it is often in those personal relations where you are spending many, many days with people – not just hours – that you build up an ability to try and get an agreement.” He emphasized that while the carbon footprint of the conference is significant, a remote COP would be less effective in creating impactful change.

The former Green Party leader also touched on Ireland’s climate progress, noting that while emissions have fallen, they are not decreasing rapidly enough to meet targets. The Irish Fiscal Advisory Council has urged the government to invest more of its budget surplus in green infrastructure to avoid severe fines from the EU for failing to meet carbon targets.

Ryan forecasted, “In energy, we’ll meet our targets for this first five-year period. We are making progress; I mean, our emissions per person in the last 25 years have roughly halved.” He concluded that while “not enough” has been done, he is confident that progress will continue.

As the COP30 conference approaches, leaders face mounting pressure to address climate change effectively. The outcome of this crucial meeting could have lasting implications not only for global emissions but also for international cooperation on climate action.

Stay tuned for more updates as the COP30 event unfolds and world leaders gather to discuss the future of our planet.