11/14/19
Submitted to: United Nations Environmental Programme
From: Rwanda
Subject: Renewable Energy
Most of the modern world has been using fossil fuels since 1,000 B.C. Since then the modern world has relied on fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are easy to find. There are many of them right now and they’re very efficient when used. Although fossil fuels are the most productive route, they come bearing many negative qualities.The use of so many fossil fuels is taking a toll on our earth. In the renewable energy background paper it was said that scientists have found that the burning of fossil fuels is directly linked to global warming. Not only are the fuels taking a toll on our earth but we’re using them too quickly. Researchers from Ecotricity have predicted that oil will run out in 53 years, gas will run out in 52 years and coal will run out in 150 years. 150 years seems generations away but the rate could quicken and be even sooner.
Rwanda has already made the move towards renewable energy. In 2014 Rwanda built a Africa shaped solar field. This solar field is powering more than 15,000 homes in Rwanda. Not only is Rwanda using solar energy but in 2014 Rwanda also made a hydroelectric power station. These stations have helped provide electricity to cities that have been struck by poverty by providing a cheap for of electricity.
The cheapest form of renewable electricity for a citizen is hydroelectric power. If countries in the United Nations were able to come together and create plants for hydroelectric power it would be cheaper for citizens. If the source is cheaper it is more likely for the citizens to keep using it. Researchers from the energy information administration have also found that keeping a wind power plant going is cheaper than keeping a coal power plant running.
Rwanda would like to see this committee form funding for countries who are in heavy use of fossil fuels to renewable energy plants. Not only funding but programs in different countries that have found effective ways of finding the resources they need. This would make building power plants easier. Rwanda would also like to see these power plants be focused on not only the countries in heavy use of fossil fuels but in those countries that have cities with very little power, especially countries with the resources needed already there. Countries with many rivers could easily use hydroelectric power for their renewable energy. Rwanda looks forward to working with all of you in committee and is eager to devise a thorough plan for environmentally friendly and economically attainable renewable energy.
- Hayden Natinsky
