Encouraging Alternative Energy

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Angola
Delegate Name: Lucas Calderon
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The gradual heating up of the earth is becoming more and more to people, an increasing amount of mostly developed nations are realizing that something needs to be done to prevent or slow down any more damage. The way most countries are trying to slow down the effects of climate change is by putting in place alternative energy power sources to prevent the excess release of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. This situation is very problematic for angola considering that 94 to 97 percent of our exports are crude petroleum, and most of that goes to very developed countries. If countries were to continue developing and using alternative energies to provide new forms of power and started to use less petroleum, Angola’s economy, along with many other big oil exporter’s, would be decimated. While the world is inevitably going to shift more to alternative energy sources, Angola is deeply concerned with the large oil exporters whose economies rely mostly on coal and oil power plants and cars that consume large amounts of petroleum. Angola is also concerned with the increase in competition that will inevitably occur in between the big oil exporters and thinks collaboration is a key part in this discussion and wants to seek solutions to compensate the countries. Angola firmly believes that there is more to alternative energy than just the cost of making the power plants, we need to take into consider the economic implications that turning to alternative energy has on oil exporting countries.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Bangladesh
Delegate Name: Isabelle Popp
School: Forest Hills Central High School

A worldly trend has been to reduce the use of non-renewable resources and create cheaper uses of alternative energy. In order to do such countries must work toward the goal of ensuring clean energy to reduce the carbon-dioxide gas, given off by fossil fuels, in the atmosphere creating a global climate change. The UN is aware of the urgence for clean energy sources, therefore setting it as goal seven of the UNDP. In goal seven the UN is looking to “reverse the loss of environmental resources.”

Bangladesh is for goal seven and the encouragement of alternative energy. Bangladesh believes so strongly in this cause that the government has provided up to fifteen million Bangladeshi homes with power through solar energy. The government is getting financial aid from the National Bank to fund the new solar energy. Bangladesh believes in giving their people the energy they need at no cost to the environment. The government is not the only player in Bangladesh’s solar power revolution. Grameen Shakti, a non-profit organization in Bangladesh, has brought solar power to over eleven million homes. Besides the support of goal seven, the Renewable Energy Policy of Bangladesh has been put into place to encourage the use of alternative energy. The Renewable Energy Policy of Bangladesh goal is to help develop sustainable energy supplies to substitute indigenous non-renewable energy supplies.

With the solar power provided by Grameen Shakti and the government, Bangladesh has about ten percent of their home powered by the sun. Bangladesh believes that this is only helping the country. It has given energy to more of the population than before the use of solar power. Bangladesh has become the number one to provider in sustainable energy to its citizens.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Belgium
Delegate Name: Alexis Jackson
School: Grand Blanc High School

Ever since the Chinese first used coal as an energy source, our Earth has come

a long way in using fossil fuels for energy. These fossil fuels include natural gases, oil

and water among other things. As of 2007, scientists have discovered global warming is happening now and is a result of human activities including the usage of gas emitting

forms of transportation, factories and other environment polluting occupations.

As a nation, Belgium has decided to take the energy crisis by storm. After the

devastation at Fukushima in Japan, Belgium has disabled many of its nuclear reactors fearing similar meltdowns.As of 2015, two more reactors were scheduled to be taken out of commission. As a result of the loss of nuclear power, Belgium is in the works of building an island where wind power will be stored as a giant battery of sorts. This storage of energy will assist with future energy crisis as they appear.

Belgium believes that switching over to wind or solar powers can assist in helping

the world get back on its feet concerning energy. Along being a green way to help the

earth, wind power can pay for itself in the long run. This can be helpful to countries that

are developing and need help getting on its feet concerning energy. We must act quickly before we pass a point of no return and doom our planet to slow decay. Renewable resources are the best and most viable solution and should be introduced as fast as possible.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Benin
Delegate Name: Jacob Milam
School: Williamston High School

Main position: Focus on bringing cheap renewable energy to smaller developing countries.

Fellow delegates, we gather here today in the common belief that we can strive for a better future for not only our individual countries but all of our allied countries. Benin believes that most of the countries would agree that alternative energies could be very beneficial to the world, although there may be some countries here today on the opposing side of having more alternative energies. However for the countries that agree that we should be heading in the direction of alternative energies, we may not all agree on how to put the alternative energies in place, or what types of energy to use or what countries need them the most. In the end we need to improve the world’s renewable energy sources. Energy from renewable sources currently accounts for 5% of global energy supply, and with some money and hard work Benin thinks that we could eventually double that number if the countries that are gathered here today started the world on the right track, which is a goal that Benin believes could be accomplished.

In the country of Benin there are few renewable energy sources due to many reasons such as lack of the ability to transport energy, low electrical budgets, and lack of resources. The CEB, (the power generation and transmission company owned by Benin and Togo) has not been able to afford the required investments as there has been an everyday increasing need of more and more energy supply. Since Benin has not been able to obtain a sufficient number of renewable energy sources which is a similar statement could be made for many of the other developing nations, Benin has not been capable to provide sufficient amounts of clean energy to its citizens and businesses. In 2009, firms indicated that around 7.5% of value was lost because of power outages that totalled, on average, 24 days per year.

Benin believes that in order to effectively spread renewable and alternative energy throughout the world we need to focus on putting it into small developing countries, due to the fact that many of these countries would not be able to afford much of the starting costs of these new energy investments, or simply don’t have the resources to support them, for instance Benin cannot use biomass because we don’t have enough of the assets since our people rely on those natural resources so heavily, and we cannot reach out to the rural areas, which makes up almost 60% of our country. Developing countries are the main contributors to the high GHG(Green House Gasses) levels being that there are so many that do not have access to clean energy. If the smaller developing countries got the clean energy it would boost their economies while also working to decrease the effects of pollution in the world. While there are very many ways to provide clean energy and they all have different pros and cons depending on things like cost effectiveness or what works for the geography of the specific country that it is located in. But if the United Nations helps to provide alternative sources of energy to the developing countries, then we could choose individually how to implement the different types of energy into each country. By doing so it would not only provide an economic boost for many countries, but also a decrease in the pollution in the world.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Bolivia
Delegate Name: Molly Dlugos
School: Forest Hills Central High School

In the past years many energy sources are being discovered. In Bolivia there have been many advancements to alternate energy sources. there has been in increase of energy use in Bolivia. Since this increase there is a demand for a larger energy supply. Bolivia use of energy over the years has called for new alternative sources of energy. Many countries around the world have been using an alternative energy source instead of burning fossil fuels to add to the pollution of our ozone. Hydropower, solar power, wind power, geothermal and biomass sources are all alternate energy sources.

Renewable energy resources other than hydropower are barely exploited in Bolivia, and their contribution to electricity generation is insignificant. However, the potential of decentralized electricity systems (solar photovoltaics or PV, wind, etc.) for disperse populations was recognized by the government in the Rural Electrification Plan (PLABER). This component established that the service to households, schools and health facilities in areas of low population density would rely on locally available renewable energy sources.

The share of hydropower capacity in Bolivia is 40%, which is below the 51% average for the region. Installed hydroelectric capacity in 2005 was 480 MW, distributed amongst some 21 facilities. The largest plant is the 93 MW Saint Isabel, operated by Corani. Solar power in Bolivia has grown in the past years. The World Bank is financing a rural infrastructure project in Bolivia which, among others, plans to install 17,000 solar home systems by 2009. Another project funded by the Global Partnership on Out-based Aid which is administered by the World Bank intends to scale up the installations by an additional 7000 in the next three years. Many solutions have been brought up to resolve the issues that lead with an alternate energy source.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Ellie Katz
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

As one of the world's leaders in employing alternative energy, Brazil is incredibly open and eager to explore the implementation of further renewable energy projects and to help figure solutions for developing countries with limited funds. For developed countries, Brazil stands as a model for advances in clean energy. With nearly half of Brazil's energy coming from renewable sources, and about 83% of its electricity also fed by renewable sources, Brazil leads the way in wholeheartedly adopting alternative energy sources.

Brazil's 10-year energy plan (expected to be met by 2020) has been put to work, spending over half of its investment on hydropower, Brazil's primary source of alternative energy. A large part of its investment is also going to harnessing wind power, which will jump from supplying 1% to 7% of Brazil's total energy by 2020. However because of Brazil's desire to balance advancements in clean energy with the physical environment, the use of solar energy in Brazil will increase after 2020.

Brazil's wind farms are some of the most productive and affordable in the world, especially with the growing number of farms with Brazil's 10-year plan. Because these farms are so effective, they are able to produce more energy than can be consumed by the Brazilian population, which mobilizes the economical export of energy to other South American countries, providing a cheap option for the developing countries of South America.

Another key element of Brazil's energy standards is our use of ethanol derived from sugarcane as opposed to gasoline for motor vehicles. A majority of Brazil's vehicles run solely on ethanol, or a mixture of ethanol and gasoline, both resulting in lower carbon emissions. Brazil currently has one of the largest biofuel markets in the world and is collaborating with foreign firms.

In terms of the international community taking steps toward the widespread development of alternative energy, Brazil believes that a definite plan of action needs to be formulated – one with definite and concrete guidelines and dates. Brazil's 10-year plan is a perfect model of how having a target date and a solid plan can and will motivate countries with the means to achieve goals for employing alternative energy. This also exemplifies the need for developed countries to take action and lead the way for the rest of the world. Countries with the necessary funds and means should work towards implementing more forms of alternative energy and should research the economic and environmental effects that these implementations will have. As economic and cultural powerhouses, developed countries should set an example for developing countries in terms of addressing alternative energy and climate change as a whole. Climate change and adopting alternative energy need to be taken seriously and must be considered a priority.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Burkina Faso
Delegate Name: Lara Muschel
School: Royal Oak High School

Policy of

Encouraging Alternative Energy

Fossil Fuels and “Non-Alternative” Energy sources are part of the main reasons for Pollution, which leads to CO2 emissions, thus contributing to the issue of Climate Change.

Alternative Energy includes solar energy, wind energy, hydropower e.t.c… that even though somewhat slow to produce at times would be much more beneficial to the world, than the fossil fuels currently used for energy. However, new methods have been devised to allow alternative energy to be made in a speedier way, thus making it so that if we use this energy in lieu of fossil fuels, we would be able to help our environment, and prevent the further damaging of it. Since clean energy also reduces the amount of Carbon Dioxide reduced into the atmosphere, we could thus also reduce the rapid rise of global warming, to which our globe is currently subject to.

Burkina Faso is largely depended on Fossil Fuels such as oil, and takes a great amount of energy from such sources, and transitioning to other energy sources may take a veritable amount of time. While also dependent on Natural Gas Reserves, it might still be very difficult for countries such as Burkina Faso to introduce types of Renewable Energies into their economies, so that must also be considered, in the time estimated that it will take for countries to adapt renewable energy.

Policies that encourage (and perhaps also reward?) the use of Alternative Energy could greatly aid the need for this type of energy in less fortunate countries. If individual businesses and the government work together to establish and cement a base for the use of Alternative Energy, it would also be easier for poorer nations to establish grounds for the use of Alternative Energy.

A very simple way to get nations with less means started in the Alternative Energy process would be to have them use biomass energy (the burning of waste in order to obtain clean energy) which would be an easy and doable thing for third world countries to do.

Setting aside certain expanses of land (if possible government issue) for the establishment of solar panels, thermal energy plants, hydroelectric plants e.t.c. could also make it less complicated to establish ways to access alternative energy.

Burkina Faso proposes that other nations – that are in possession of more currency than say third world countries – should donate or lend to these third world countries and provide structures of support for them in order for these nations to provide clean energy to their citizens, and help the world as a whole (the reduction of unnecessary pollution).

Solar Energy, Tidal Energy, Wind Energy, and Geothermal Energy would be the most likely to last the longest, whereas thermal energy and fossil fuels would be less beneficial to us. The four above energy types are in a sense… inexhaustible, meaning that we can use them over, and over again, which is more beneficial than using energy sources that pollute our atmosphere, and are consequently not inexhaustible.

Burkina Faso thus encourages all other Nations to start the process of integrating the use of clean Alternative energy into their energy sources, which would consequently greatly aid the world's atmosphere and environment.

-, Royal Oak High School Model United Nations Delegate, GLIMUN 2015

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: China
Delegate Name: Hugh McDonald
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Over the past thirty years global air temperatures have risen faster than ever before. Scientists say that human activity is contributing to climate change and pollution. One solution to climate change is encouraging alternative energy to shift a way from fossil fuels.

China is fully committed to fighting climate change as long as all the other major countries are willing too and the economic repercussions are insignificant.

China knows that we contribute to climate change, but would also like to remind the world that China is still trying to become energy secure. China would further like to remind the world community that China has been ranked 80 in terms of CO2 emitted per capita. China plans to implement a Cap-and-trade in 2016 to help fight air pollution and we have plans to start closing coal plants in Beijing beginning first in 2017.

Some solutions to climate change that China would support include trading new technology among countries, a standard also recommends the world adopt a standard 20% renewable energy goal that can be acquired from solar, wind, dams, geothermal, and nuclear power. China would like to continue investments into nuclear power and we would also like to note the completion of the 3 gorges Dam, the largest in the world as another example of China leading the way to fight climate change. Another solution would be to change the Kyoto accords to make it more China would also like to note that we are one of the few members to ratify the Doha amendments Kyoto protocol, when most countries including the United States and Canada have not. In addition China would like to see a universal cap-and-trade system put into place for all countries with some United Nations oversight.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Logan Forshee
School: Mattawan High School

Recently, there has been a lot of discussion on climate change, global warming, and energy sources. The consequences of ignoring these environmental dangers can lead to sea levels rising, the endangerment of crops, and massive storms. Rising sea levels could make low lying countries disappear, crops could be decimated by huge wildfires, and massive storms could flatten entire countries and kill millions. The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, stands as the main culprit of this issue. However, renewable energy sources, wind, solar, and nuclear, provide countries with a cleaner and more eco friendly way to power their country.

Colombia full heartedly agrees that this detrimental crisis needs global action to be taken. Colombia has laid out a plan to reduce emissions by 20% for 2030. Currently, 70% of Colombia’s energy is derived from hydroelectric power. 18% of power comes from natural gas and only 8% from coal, the most destructive fossil fuel. Colombia is the fifth largest exporter of coal in the world. Colombia’s economy relies on this export, as it is our second most important behind crude petroleum. Colombia’s economy desperately needs this export to maintain stability and lower the poverty rate.

Colombia is willing to work with several countries including Mexico, Australia, other South American countries, and any others that understand the economic burden placed on struggling countries Colombia supports energy reform and believes countries should follow in our footsteps regarding hydroelectric power. Colombia suggests light regulations on developing countries with an open trading policy regarding fossil fuels. Monetary help from global powerhouses would help countries greatly affected by the loss of fossil fuel exports. Countries who can barely afford fossil fuel power can not be expected to pay for renewable energies, considering they can be expensive. All countries present must take into account the differences in each country and the different challenges they face. Colombia is excited to be apart of such an important committee and looks forward to helping resolve this issue.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Congo
Delegate Name: Novi Dosanjh
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The Republic of Congo is a small country located on the west coast of Africa. The republic gained independence in June of 1960 and joined the UN just a couple months after. The country lives in poverty and needs help. The topic of “encouraging alternative energy” impacts my country strongly. My country has policies regarding deforestation and forest management, so it makes it difficult for us to obtain energy sources to our population. We realize that alternative energy is, in fact, expensive and we hope to get help in the financial aspect of it all. As the population continues to grow, so do our deforestation rates, unless we find another energy source to provide them with. Our government has taken action in regards to helping us. I hope the committee can come up with a resolution that assists underdeveloped countries with the creation of alternative energy to aid not just us, but the entire world. Possible ideas for alternative energy are creating solar panels which would assist my country well. With the solar panels, it takes 7-15 years to get your money back. Due to the large amount of sunlight the Republic of Congo receives we could most likely get it back in 7. For countries that are not underdeveloped there should be a required amount of energy that comes from alternative sources to help better our world’s environment. Every country's pollution affects our world, so alternative energy sources is an every country problem. Alternative energy would benefit everyone as long as the UN is willing to give us the funding to do so.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Croatia
Delegate Name: Maria Simon
School: Mattawan High School

Carbon emissions are starting to destroy our planet. Climate scientists are worried that the pre-industrial temperature is going to rise from 2 degrees celsius to 4 or 6 degrees celsius. If this rise in temperature occurred, catastrophic results may occur, such as a rise in sea level, and a shortage in agricultural yields. In order to stop the temperature from rising, alternative fuels have been encouraged to be incorporated more often than fossil fuels. Alternative energy, or renewable energy, is things such as wind, solar power, etc that are natural. Since alternative energy isn’t replaced as fast as fossil fuels, it hasn’t completely replaced fossil fuels.

Croatia has a moderate use of alternative energy sources. Croatia, as a country, consumes around 16.97 billion KWh. 37.1% of Croatia’s energy comes from fossil fuels. 48.5% of Croatia’s energy comes from hydroelectric powerplants, which is a form of alternative energy where water is stopped (with a dam) and then run through turbines, which in turn produces energy.

A solution to become completely reliable on alternative energy sources could be that we implement solar panels on the roofs of houses for generating electricity and heating. These solar panels generate around 3000 kWh in an average home. A downfall to this would be the price. The solar panels tend to average in at around 8000 euros. However, the price is continuously falling, and it soon may be very reasonable to start asking citizens to add solar paneling.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Denmark
Delegate Name: Malaynah Leach
School: Vicksburg High School

With current global warming and climate changes caused by burning fossil fuels, Denmark urges the switch to alternative energy. Although Denmark is already a very alternative energy efficient country, they still strive to use even more renewable energy resources. Denmark has the biggest off-shore wind farm in the world and 300 on-shore wind turbines, making wind power their biggest source of alternative energy. Even though Denmark started off spending a substantial amount of money on wind turbines and wind power in the beginning, it has certainly paid off. New wind plants that are being built will provide energy for half the price of coal and natural gas plants, making wind energy not only energy efficient, but price efficient as well. Denmark’s wind farms are able to produce up to 140% of demanded electricity, so much electricity that they are able to export energy to their neighboring countries Germany, Norway, and Sweden. Denmark is currently up to 40% renewable energy and aims for 50% by 2020. That goal is only a small goal of Denmark’s many alternative energy objectives. Denmark strives to end the use of all fossil fuels by 2050. Although that is a large goal for a small country, Denmark is high on the rise on accomplishing this immense goal.

Being a country 100% dependent on renewable energy seems almost impossible with nonrenewable energy sources being so widely used and in such high demand, but with Denmark shaping the future of alternative energy use, becoming a more energy efficient country is easier than it seems. Ultimately being energy efficient and using alternative energy, countries benefit largely. Taken into account that the start off of some alternative energy projects is pricey and depends on a country’s location and income there should be more funding launched. It is important for this funding because alternative energy can create more money, more jobs, and of course cleaner air and energy, all of which are ongoing problems in many nations around the world.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Gabrielle Pearce
School: Grand Blanc High School

Ever since the Chinese first used coal as an energy source, our Earth has come a long way using fossil fuels for energy. These fossil fuels include natural gases, oil, and water among other things. In 2007, research showed that human activity such as driving a car and the use of factories is causing a major jump on global warming. These daily activities make their impact when fuels are released into our air, causing global warming.

With Egypt being the Arab World’s most populous country, a lot of energy needs to be used and can cause much pollution. Egypt is on the rise to becoming a hot renewable energy market. Struck with shortages in electricity supply, the country is quickly moving in the right direction with a new ambition in wind and solar powered energy. Infact, a feed-in tariff (FIT) was announced in September of 2014. With this tariff, Egypt will obtain 4.3 gigawatts (GW) of solar and wind power production by 2017.

To help solve this issue, Egypt has a new strategy that aims at increasing its renewable energy share to 20% of Egypt's energy mix by 2020. Also with its new FIT, Egypt was approached by many people such as solar developers, willing to make proposals towards this tariff. A stunning 178 proposals were made and 69 were approved. These proposals will help in improving global alternative energy options and steps toward a safer, cleaner future. Egypt should serve as an example for other countries, even in the midst of great social change we have pushed forward with renewable energy.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Matthew Wolfgram
School: Grand Blanc High School

The world’s emission production has increased alarmingly over the past few decades, with temperatures

rapidly rising on an annual basis. Many attempts and proposals have been made to reduce and regulate

emissions, but the world’s efforts have only been met with steady increases in air and environmental pollution.

Alternative power sources such as Solar and Wind energy have been introduced, but produce a very low

amount of power in comparison to fossil fuels, and are much more expensive to operate. For this reason,

alternative energy has failed to become a proper solution to the clean energy crisis. Cheaper and more

effective means to produce clean energy must be found, and implemented as soon as possible.

As a country on Earth, and a country facing the effects of worldwide pollution, Egypt wishes to help invent a

plan to lessen the deadly grip of climate change on life on Earth. Egypt has made a strong effort to reduce its

emissions output by investing in many forms of alternate energy, and. With Egypt’s alternative energy sources

already producing thousands of gigawatts of power, Egypt’s New & Renewable Energy Authority hopes to set

even more ambitious plans to become less reliant on fossil fuels. Although Egypt is a large exporter of crude

oil, its exports and production have been steadily decreasing, making alternative energy an essential factor in

producing an adequate amount of energy. With time, Egypt hopes to become as economically clean and

efficient as possible.

While green energy technology may advance to be proficient in the long term, short term energy solutions are

direly needed to begin the transition to permanent renewable energy longevity. Temporary options such as

Hydrogen and Biofuels are ideal, and their implementation is extremely necessary in the face of rising water

levels, temperatures, and faltering fossil fuel resources. Biofuels and hydrogen are abundant, and-if researched

and engineered properly- will be enough to sustain Earth’s energy consumption in the absence of fossil fuels.

Egypt wishes to form a plan to switch to more renewable forms of energy, especially in consideration of its

diminishing oil reserves.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: France
Delegate Name: Julianna Schrier
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

France provides alternative energy sources for its residents and encourages the use and building of them through feed-in tariffs and tax benefits. This means that if one builds a piece of equipment on their property that provides alternative energy, like a wind turbine, for example, they can get money from the electricity company and also include it as a tax benefit. France believes that perhaps other countries with the resources and money to construct these type of things, that do not already offer some sort of benefit begin to do so, as another encouragement for a larger amount of our energy to be created without the use of fossil fuels.

Many alternative energy sources have been developed and created and available for many years now, but for multiple reasons have not gotten as big and been used as much as they could. One of those reasons is the cost, and the fact that some people don't see the personal benefit of investing in these alternative sources of energy. If we did implement some sort of policy, and put a bit more effort into encouraging the use of alternative energy sources, perhaps we will be able to move forward quicker in the goal of using less of these ever-dwindling fossil fuels, and move away from the rapidly-warming planet, causing issues on all fronts.

Another reason that alternative energy sources are not being used as widely as they could is because many countries do *not* have the resources and/or money available to them to built the receptacles needed, and France looks forward to discussing solutions to this problem, as well.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Grace Kraimer
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Alternative Energy is becoming an increasingly germane topic as the effects of our crude energy use is starting to be uncovered across the land. Not many people disagree with principles of cleaning up the land; but delegating responsibility, methods, and money is a task that must be debated and made aware to the countries.

Our renewable energy sector is among the most innovative and successful across the world. As that we are a larger, wealthy country we can afford to be concerned about the earth and strive towards more sustainable ways of living. Historically, they have pushed to pass resolutions to help out the environment and positively push the subject. It affects them, seeing as though there is no other planet to be able to support life and the German people if we mess up this planet. Germany tends to back away from Nuclear Energy, but encourages citizens with buying incentives to produce alternative energy. They have passed many environmentally friendly policies to work towards decreasing crude energy and converting, with most deadlines around 2020. This is so soon to try to create major change.

Angela Merkel, the Chancellor, has spoken saying “We (The EU) must advance scientific and technological development…so that we can play our part as an exporter of such technologies in future as well.” It’s quite important, seeing as though Germany is the 6th largest consumer of energy in the world. They have taken huge strides, like how “net-generation from renewable energy sources in the German electricity sector has increased from 6.3% in 2000 to about 30% in 2014,” according to the Fraunhofer Institute. In 2007 their energy policy was formed with the EU that called for three main changes by the year 2020. It calls for a 20% reduction of CO2 emissions, 20% of total EU energy consumption to be alternative energy (vs 7% in 2006), and for 10% of gas/diesel is biofuel. They don’t trust nuclear energy, though, and supported a clause

“allowing each member state to decide whether or not to use nuclear-generated electricity.” Germany is trying to get rid of nuclear energy by the year 2022.

Germany signed the Kyoto Protocol to work towards the worldwide reduction of CO2 emissions, which requires alternative energy. They supported the idea of a successor to the protocol (“The Washington Binding”) for a Global cap-and-trade system. Decade Of Sustainable Energy for all resolution to increase spread. Germany pushes alternative energy in the conference room, and the UN passed a resolution 64/06 for “A coordinated global energy strategy needs to be adopted, in conjunction with consistent and stable national policies, to bring down the cost of renewable energy technologies, including off-grid systems, for use by the poorest segments of the population living in rural areas.” They oppose the growth of Nuclear Energy in the debate room, and are cautious of the immense danger a nuclear factory presents.

Germany believes there should be a greater stress on this deadly topic. They want alternative energy to become more affordable/accessible, reduce CO2 emissions, and to encourage people beyond their borders, I would like to accomplish a resolution to work on the affordability of alternative energy so that all countries can be included. CO2 emissions should be monitored, and nuclear energy greatly reduced for the safety of all people. Other countries will likely not oppose any movements or the idea of alternative energy; but issues such as cost and nuclear power will probably be debated.

That being said, it is a very important debate to have. If we continue along the same energy path that we are walking now, our planet will become uninhabitable.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Ghana
Delegate Name: Marisa Mooney
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Global warming is an increasingly dangerous threat to our environment. If carbon emissions are not reduced the repercussions could be devastating. The Republic of Ghana believes the solution to global warming is alternative energy. Ghana looks forward to coming up with a resolution that can make sources of alternative energy implemented across the world.

Ghana is located very close to the equator, making it a prime location for solar energy, but Ghana struggles to pay for the technology. Because of this Wind power may have the largest capacity for development and could possibly contribute to grid power by about 200‐300 MW producing 600 GWh. But before new technology can be put in place Ghana would need a lot more money to fund new projects.

Ghana encourages many sources of renewable energy such as hydropower, solar power, wind power. Ghana also released the Renewable Energy Act in 2011, an act to provide for the development, management, utilisation, sustainability, and adequate supply of renewable energy for generation of heat and power and for related matters. This Act states the goal of reaching 10% of electrical usage from renewable energy sources by the year 2020 and defines renewable energy as wind, solar, hydro, biomass, biofuel, landfill gas, sewage gas, geothermal energy and ocean energy. This Act also installed the Energy Commission. The Energy Commission advises the Minister of Energy on renewable Energy matters, promotes the benefits of renewable energy to facilitate its utilization by creating a platform of collaboration between government and the private sector and civil society for the promotion of renewable energy sources.

Ghana believes that the United Nations should strongly encourage all countries, especially those with stable economies to implement taxes for funding alternative energy, and offer monetary incentives for citizens who use alternative energy.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: India
Delegate Name: Ryan Mersol-Barg
School: Roeper School

As a global community, we have reached a critical point in our history. In our pursuit of development and quality of life, we have begun to destroy the foundation upon which we all stand. Carbon emissions from fossil fuels and the resulting cascading environmental breakdowns has led us to this point, and now we as a community we face one of the greatest issues, if not the greatest, to date. Islands in the Asia-Pacific are already sinking into the ocean, Water acidity is already threatening fishing communities across the globe, and droughts have been ravaging parts of every continent.

However, we must not forget that energy is an integral of our global community. Therefore, the biggest challenge is cutting down carbon emissions while simultaneously growing our energy infrastructures to match the need of an ever advancing world. With this in mind, it is essential that we encourage cooperation across borders to ensure that all countries are able to contribute in combating climate change while also growing their economies. India has been at the forefront of this kind alternative energy development by both working with many other countries and taking it upon ourselves to move towards a greener world. India has done joint research with many other governments and has trained scientists so more countries can share in the knowledge required to tackle such a challenge as this. Along with this, India has been ambitious in our own alternative energy policy. We have been progressing aggressively towards our goal of deploying 20,000 MW of solar power by 2022 while we have already implemented over 37,400 MW of alternative energy primarily in the form of wind and solar energy. This has largely been due to finding ways to reduce the cost of alternative energies. India would like to see similarly ambitious commitments from other counties as well.

India expects that, with the growing understanding of the severity of this issue, there should be much agreement on this general approach. Dissent will most likely come when details are discussed, particularly in the West there has been a concern over potential redundant organizations. One of the key concepts that developed nations have been resistant to is that for two centuries, they made use of carbon-based fuels to develop their economies and societies. Now they ask developing nations to not use the very processed they have used to enrich themselves, which would continue to lock poorer nations in poverty. This cannot be a serious option for nations of the global south.

Finding ways to encourage alternative energy across the globe is critical to everyone on it, but we must not lose sight of our responsibility to ensure that all countries have the opportunity to flourish in the coming years.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Lily Danielson
School: Fishers High School

Indonesia would like to encourage alternative energy sources as much as possible however it’s difficult for us to implement these new sources as we struggle to provide electricity for our country as it is and as we build more power plants and gain capacity it is cheaper for us to build and maintain. 83.2% of our country's energy currently comes from fossil fuels. Only 11% comes from hydroelectric plants and 5.8% from other renewable source. Our country's economy is growing at a substantial rate, an average of 6.4% GDP per year. And so we have on of the lowest electrification ratios in the region, about 62 million people currently have no access to electricity. We have numerous reserves of coal and oil the occur naturally in indonesia and further lower the cost of fossil fuel based electricity. In our growing economy every Rupiah counts and as our demand for more electricity increases it stands that fossil fuel based energy is much easier for us to produce. We only allow purchase of goods from other nations when we can’t produce or can’t produce enough of something. For these renewable sources we would have to purchase the resources from other nations unlike fossil fuels which we ourselves can produce.

The people of Indonesia can see the benefits of renewable energy sources but it isn’t practical for us in our current economical situation to build these renewable plants instead of fossil fuel burning plants. Nations that already have the technology to build these cleaner plants should promote them and convert their power systems to cleaner renewable energy. Then once they have cleaned up their own countries they should help other countries that don’t have the money or don’t have any access to these new technologies to develop safer energy plants. The international community should help the countries that haven’t developed the technologies by sharing their advances. Wealthy countries should also give financial support to other countries that are struggling to finance new technological developments. The most practical source of energy for asia in the long-term is Nuclear energy. In the short term the most practical energy source is fossil fuels.

Indonesia currently can’t afford to supply our population with the cheapest form of energy (fossil fuels). As our society grows at a rapid rate it is nearly impossible for us to accommodate the energy needs of our society with renewable sources. Fossil fuel plants are much less expensive than renewable sources and our naturally occurring supplies of fossil fuels make it much easier for us to fund. This will work for us in the short term but eventually we won’t be able to sustain our energy habit and will be forced to switch to renewable sources. However, it would be much simpler for us to just start with renewable sources. The only way we could do this would be if we had financial support from some economically stable countries like Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, or Switzerland. Countries like these should convert themselves to renewable power sources then send financial support to countries like us who struggle to provide electricity currently and aren’t able to provide for their country's electrical needs.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Emma Ristau
School: Royal Oak High School

Italy is dedicated to working toward a sustainable energy future—both domestically and globally. Within its borders, Italy has implemented a myriad of comprehensive initiatives to help foster energy efficiency. Such initiatives as Italy’s National Energy Strategy and Renewable Energy Action Plan have set the stage for a gradual integration of alternative energy and an overall de-carbonization of Italy’s economy. As a world leader in terms of energy efficiency, Italy also feels an obligation to support the developing world in its effort to make clean energy accessible. Italy has been working with several developing nations already, having hosted a conference in 2014 with Sub-Saharan African nations aimed at improving electricity infrastructure and encouraging renewable energy technologies.

In acknowledging the severe implications of climate change at this stage, we must consider a concrete plan of action. As we have learned with the success—or lack thereof—of the Kyoto Protocol, merely setting targets is not enough to combat climate change. So, what does a more aggressive global initiative look like? At the forefront of Italian alternative energy policy are two key factors: competitiveness and sustainability. Like any emerging technology, alternative energy sources are not in large demand. In order to build a more competitive market, nations with the resources need to be willing to take the plunge and subsidize/incentivize clean energy projects, just as Italy has notably done with solar power. Not only does this yield economic rewards and job growth, but it is a good jumping-off point for further use of renewable energy. Alternative energy guidelines do need to be long-term and gradual, but we need to start somewhere.

Italy is supportive of a resolution that calls upon developed nations to help drive the widespread development of alternative energy. Italy has and will continue its part in leading in research and the implementation of new clean energy technology. Additionally, Italy would like to see an inclusive plan of action that brings developing nations into the fight against carbon emissions. Italy encourages the use of multiple forms of alternative energy, such as tidal and biomass, and believes that nations should use discretion based on what best fits their geography. Italy looks forward to further discussion on the topic of alternative energy and is open-minded to other creative ways to address the issue of climate change.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Japan
Delegate Name: Colleen Janes
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Japan strongly encourages the use of alternative energy sources and recognizes the urgency of this situation, but notes the difficulties for some nations to launch successful alternative energy campaigns. Alternative energy is a necessary next step in preventing further climate change, and if drastic measures are not taken promptly the damages to the environment will be irreversible.

After the Fukushima disaster of 2011 Japan has shut down the majority of its nuclear reactors, once the main source of energy in the country, due to safety concerns. There is a definite demand for alternative energy sources in the Japan, but the lack of natural resources available domestically make it impossible to sufficiently provide clean energy to all of the nation. Japan has set a goal to have 20% of the nation’s energy renewable by 2020.

Japan has set up multiple clean-energy subsidies and proposals, but the cost of starting these programs is too high to be realistic. The cost to install a solar panel in Japan is more than double that cost to do so in a country like Germany, so even with the Japanese government providing subsidies for businesses to partake in solar energy, few do so. There are high regulations for these energy sources which prevent Japan from becoming a nation of sustainable, clean energy.

Japan believes that it is capable of exceeding its 20% renewable energy goal by 2020, because of the enthusiasm shown by the Japanese people regarding this issue. Japan calls upon the United Nations Environmental Programme to discuss the pressing issue of encouraging alternative energy sources. Japan hopes to come to a resolution that provides support to nations attempting to create mass alternative energy campaigns, both financially and technologically.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Jordan
Delegate Name: Janea Wilson
School: Roeper School

The nation of Jordan sees that it is important to find alternative energy sources in order to slow the growth of carbon emissions. Jordan realizes that in order to slow the growth of greenhouse gasses, prevent further damage to the ozone, and to return carbon dioxide levels to lower levels, action must be taken. It is more difficult for poorer nations, Jordan, to implement alternative energy because it is expensive to research, develop, and install. The search for alternative energy has held great attention since the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg of 2002.

Currently 99.6% of Jordan’s energy comes from fossil fuels. Considering that our neighbor Saudi Arabia holds 18% of the world’s oil, it is less costly to use than another energy source, but Jordan has limited oil reserves of its own. Jordan currently imports almost all of its oil from neighboring nations, primarily Saudi Arabia.

Initiatives to use renewable energies have been made. They are not cost-efficient to developing nations because of the start-up costs. Energy sources that are dependent on the weather are not always reliable which may not make them the best way of powering an area. Richer countries, with the technologies to do so, should put limits on their carbon emissions.

In countries that have the technology and financing can better utilize alternative energy sources by making them widely available. Carbon based fuels are the most used sources of energy in many large countries. America uses a large amount of the world’s oil and should be to form an alternative energy source. In California, a company has been able to create high performance oils from microalgae. Other counties that have coasts and are able to fund a project like that and should do so. Microalgae oils are natural, so they do not harm the ecosystem and produce no carbon dioxide. The production is costly, but if the oil is produced more, the cost could decrease.

With the assistance of the EU, Morocco has recently developed massive solar power farms to add to their already substantial wind power generation capacity, with the goal of producing 50% of their energy needs from renewable resources by 2020. Given the similarities in climate, environment, resources, and industrial development, Jordan is considering the feasibility and costs of similar projects. We urge other nations to share these technologies, and help developing nations with the costs of implanting these. Countries which have the technology to do so should make alternative energy accessible to as many nations and people as possible.

The Clean Development Mechanism under control of the Kyoto Protocol which provides financing for renewable energy technologies in developing countries. Developing countries should accept that help in order to slow and then halt the growth of greenhouse gasses, so that global ecology can remain the same.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Kazakhstan
Delegate Name: Nick Rhoa
School: Mattawan High School

The temperature of the Earth has risen drastically over the course of the last thirty years. This has brought about a paradigm shift in the way people view environmental problems. Kazakhstan realizes that global climate change is a significant issue for most, if not all, countries. Although this problem is significant, Kazakhstan is uncertain whether an agreement can be achieved between all nations, considering the failure of the Kyoto Protocol. However, Kazakhstan submitted a proposal that included a target to reduce greenhouse gas emission, and land use by 15% of 1990 levels by 2030. That being said, Kazakhstan has shown that they are more than willing to do their part in reducing climate change.

Kazakhstan is on board to reduce climate change; however, Kazakhstan cannot get on board with alternative energy sources unless the incentives are massive. Kazakhstan has an abundant supply of natural resources and fossil fuels. Additionally, petroleum, natural gas account for over 50% of its industrial output. Kazakhstan also currently has the 11th largest reserves of petroleum and natural gas. Because of these facts, it would greatly minimize the economic growth of Kazakhstan to limit the use of non-renewable energy.

Kazakhstan does believe that the world should angle to become greener and would be willing to consider a resolution that offers major incentives to countries with growing economies and large non-renewable resource exports. Additionally, Kazakhstan believes that any resolution that is proposed must allow each country to adopt the resolution on a time table that best suits them. Since some countries are already greener than others, the timetable for an alternative energy resolution cannot be standard across the board.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Kuwait
Delegate Name: Steven Farlow
School: Fishers High School

Kuwait is a geographically small country, but a rich country. It gained a majority of its wealth through the exportation of crude oil. It has an open economy with a crude oil reserve of about 102 billion barrels. Kuwait officials also plan to increase oil production to 4 million barrels per day by 2020. The trade of Petroleum accounts for move than 50% of the total gross domestic product (GDP), 94% of export revenues, and 89% of government income. Kuwait had a GDP of $284 billion in 2014, which showed a GDP growth of 1.3% from 2013. Kuwait has created a safety net against the impact of oil prices lowering by continuously saving 10% of government revenue into the Fund for Future Generations. Kuwait has not taken steps to diversify its economy, but the government of Kuwait in 2010 passed a long-term economic development plan to diversify it's economy away from oil. These projects did not actually materialize because of uncertain political situations though. Kuwait's Electricity and Water Minister Ahmad al-Jassar has spear headed a plan to meet a 15% power demand from renewable energy sources by the year 2030. The Government of Kuwait believes that with the growing demand for electricity and the rising prices of oil, that Kuwait must focus further on Alternative Energy sources. Kuwait just recently signed a $385 million dollar deal to create a 50 megawatt solar energy production plant. The area in Kuwait is also optimal for alternative energy sources for Kuwait has strong winds and a strong sun. The Ministry of Electricity and Water has set aside land in Al Shaqaya to be dedicated to a solar power station. This station will have a total capacity of 70 Megawatts per hour. This station will start operation by 2016. The Ministry of Electricity and Water have also launched a program that has the ministry buildings operating on power produced by solar panels. 3 more stations are also going to be built, and these stations will feed into the national electricity grid directly, relieving conventional power plants when these stations are operational. The three stations that will be produced include a thermal station ( with a capacity of 50 Mega Watts ), a photovoltaic solar station ( with a capacity of 10 Mega Watts ), and a wind power station ( with a capacity of 10 Mega Watts ). The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Science has also disclosed a project to use Photovoltaic systems that will generate electricity for 150 houses to reduce the load placed on the electrical grid, which will reduce the environmental impacts due to emissions of greenhouse gasses. This project will also reduce the use of the oil. The Foundation predicts that when the project is completed, which is planned to be completed in 2 years, will save approximately 7027 barrels of oil per year, which will be worth up to 221,000 Kuwait Dollars, which at the current exchange rate would be 730,170.58 US Dollars. The Government of Kuwait would like to see the United Nations agree upon a long term plan to reduce oil consumption and reduce production of greenhouse gasses. The Government of Kuwait would also like to see the United Nations also agree upon a short term plan that will reduce the amount of oil in circulation to further stress the importance of alternative energy. The Government of Kuwait believes that all nations should do their part to preserve the global oil reserves.

Citations –

Central Intelligence Agency. Central Intelligence Agency. Web. 25 Oct. 2015.

"Kuwait Considers Alternative Energy." Kuwait Considers Alternative Energy. Web. 25 Oct. 2015

"Kuwait Signs $385 Mn Solar Energy Project." Kuwait Signs $385 Mn Solar Energy Project. Web. 25 Oct. 2015

"Kuwait Eyes Alternative Energy to Meet Growing Demand – Solar Power Station Ready by 2016 – Kuwait Times." Kuwait Times. 16 Aug. 2014. Web. 25 Oct. 2015

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Lithuania
Delegate Name: Diego Quiroga
School: Instituto Educativo Olinca

Lithuania being a country that is economically, socially and politically stable believes that alternative resources are key elements to maintaining a clean environment for decades to come, for this we must come up with solutions to solving this problematic.

Positioning

Alternative energy accounts for 20% of Lithuania’s energy production with Biomass being the main source making the most used per capita in European Union.

Considering several factors that are involved in the improvement of alternative energy resources and mostly taking into consideration the economic approach to it therefore we believe non polluting energy sources are a viable option such as wind, solar, biofuel, biomass, among others are clear examples.

Solutions

Regarding the solutions my country has, we must find better and viable ideas so that these can produce an impact for eco-friendly energy sources that suit the needs of the 21st century.

Government incentives to support alternative energy boasted by the private sector, this can be done by tax cuts to companies that has an arrangement between them and the government according to what they consume.

To achieve a better International market option of alternative energy, a free trade environment to maintain competitiveness in the international marketplace would make it affordable.

Government grants for innovative research to enhance existing technologies and look ways to achieve the goal that is to find the most affordable techniques for years to come.

In those countries where electricity is spread by the private sector, enforce national rules that if enough infrastructure can provide for the energy then it would have to be purchased from alternative sources.

Closing

Lithuania believes that non-contaminating energy sources are key to a XXI Globalized World and the demands the growing population have, therefore the investment on alternative energy would take the countries in the right path to a cleaner environment.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Mexico
Delegate Name: Anna Costanzo
School: Vicksburg High School

Many developing countries of the world are ruining their ecosystems as well as the few resources that are available to them due to the fact that they are unable to produce clean energy. Many of these countries are able to avoid using corrosive products such as fossil fuels and oil when producing their energy supplies by using wind power, solar power, and hydroelectric power. The different sources of energy are far more useful in the long run along with being safer.

Mexico believes that actions should be taken to follow the steps of countries such as Denmark who are aiming at 100% use of clean energy, but is unable to reach these goals without support. Companies do not want to invest in places such as Mexico because of the frequent crime and corruption that takes place, making it extremely hard for anyone to develop a stable business. Mexico’s electricity rates are 25% higher than the U.S. for the common household and 85% higher for businesses, finding another solution for creating clean energy could make these monopolized prices go down. Another reason why the country hasn’t switched over to clean energy is the fact that oil is Mexico’s number one export so it is easy to obtain and will be continued to be used until other resources are available. If Mexico and other developing countries receive help, their ecosystems and people will not have to deal with the problem of acid rain and land pollution which will benefit them greatly because they can focus on some of the other problems they are facing.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Nepal
Delegate Name: Oliver Bragdon
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The nation of Nepal believes this topic of seeking alternative energy sources is a pertinent one that should take priority in these debates. This topic is important because of the sizable amounts of pollution being emitted into our atmosphere because of unsustainable energy sources. Nepal is concerned with this topic because we are directly affected by all this pollution. The Nation of Nepal has already advanced towards our goals of cleaner energies in numerous ways, some of which consist of the construction of over 1,000 micro-hydroelectric dams across over 52 districts of the developing nation subsidised by the World Bank. The plants are built and run by the communities, enabling sustainability, and bring much-needed electricity that powers industry and businesses.

This issue is greatly affecting the lives of thousands upon thousands of Nepalese citizens in both positive and negative ways. For instance, the communities with these dams constructed have reached a new height of economic stability, including the town of Darbang. This town has been fortunate enough to develop a health economy with industries including a metal workshop, several furniture manufacturers, a cement block manufacturer, a noodle factory, poultry farms, and dairy farms. All these industries have sprung up within the last six years, after the Ruma Khola Micro Hydro Power Plant came into operation in 2009. In contrast, the villages who don't have these power plants built are living a drastically different life, with very little economic stability and infrastructure for their towns.

All in all, this problem needs to be further solved. The national subsidies from the World Bank have helped immensely and have created a great base for further construction.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: New Zealand
Delegate Name: Kaitlyn Dann
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

As urbanization continues and the world population grows, our worldwide need for a switch from natural gases to alternative energy sources is apparent. Human production of greenhouse gases relates to worldwide climate. With this global heating, our Earth’s icecaps have melted and water levels have risen, agricultural yields have decreased, and weather catastrophes have increase. All of these events and problems will continue if alternative energy sources are not utilized. Much cleaner energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro, and biomass all have potential to replace the fossil fuels. The pros and cons of alternative energies exist and must be looked at. While many of the alternative energies previously listed do not produce as much energy as quickly fossil fuels, they support a cleaner environment, and in turn a healthier human population. A long list of additional possible energy sources exists, and each one has its own pros and cons that need to be surveyed. Regardless of each individual source’s factor, if we as a human population continue on the same trajectory of production of greenhouse gases, there will be detrimental effects.

New Zealand is dedicated to the use of renewable energy sources over fossil fuels. 73% of New Zealand’s total energy comes from renewable energy sources. Coal and gas fuels make up the remaining 27%. Most of the energy (60%) comes from hydraulic sources, while the second most common renewable energy source is geothermal with 10% of total energy. By 2025, New Zealand’s government has a goal having 90% of all of its energy utilized come from renewable energy up from its current 73%. New Zealand as a whole would like to see the nation and world move towards the use and reliance on more renewable energy sources by working through efficiency and monetary setbacks.

As a United Nations, it is important that we encourage countries to utilize alternative sources of energy as we are running out of fossil fuels and need to improve environmental health. Incentives to countries who work to improve their carbon footprint and reduce carbon emissions should be implemented to encourage the use of alternate energy sources. Countries should each have a goal of increasing its percentage of energy from non-fossil fuel sources. Developed countries should grant some amount of money to third world and developing countries so they can move past fossil fuels and into a cleaner future. More United Nations programs such as the Global Environment Facility (GEF) should be encouraged and developed to bring renewable energy to new countries. To further pursue the worldwide use of alternative energy sources instead of health and environmental damaging fossil fuels, the United Nations must seek a way to educate countries about the detrimental effects carbon emissions has on the Earth. Each country should find the most practical alternative energy source for itself. Throughout history, humankind relied mainly on fossil fuels to bring energy to homes, factories, and society in general. Today we are seeing the impacts this way of living has on our world. New Zealand has begun the switch to renewable energy sources and wants to protect its people and its beautiful land that was featured in the movie Lord of the Rings. As we move forward, we must look towards the future. JRR Tolkien acknowledged this ever continuous process of working through world problems. He put it best when he wrote “don’t adventures ever have an end? I suppose not. Someone else always has to carry on the story.” Working through problems such as this is a key part to the United Nations. We must work to make a better world as an interconnected group of countries dedicated to the well being of the people on this earth and our posterity.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Morgan Locke
School: Grand Rapids City High School

Although the Federal Republic of Nigeria has relied on the oil industry for our economic success, we are pushing to encourage clean energy sources. Nigeria is currently in a power crisis and about two thirds of the population does not have access to electricity despite the $5 billion that is spent annually on generators. Currently, Nigeria is the world’s largest importer of diesel and patrol generators. The Federal Republic of Nigeria is currently looking for alternative energy sources that can give the population access to cheaper energy. Currently, the renewable energy program of the ministry of the environment is developing a biofuel production complex to develop renewable energy sources that can be accessible to the Nigerian population at a lower cost. Currently Nigeria is one of the biggest investment destinations for renewable energy investors but due to the political and economic uncertainties, many investors are reluctant to participate in Nigeria’s alternative energy mission. Developing renewable energy sources is also crucial for the health care industry in Nigeria. In rural areas, there needs to be an easily accessible source for local healthcare clinics in order to properly store vaccines, to educate expecting parents in family-planning, and to have proper diagnostic technology. The overall effect that developing renewable energy sources will increase Nigeria’s social responsibility and increase business. Nigeria is looking for the support of other nations who have been able to create new and reliable alternative energy sources by investing in Nigeria’s clean energy industry to create technology to help achieve an increase in Nigerian people with access to clean energy sources.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Faith Faber
School: Grand Rapids City High School

Pakistan's population is growing rapidly, and with that, resources are going scarce. One of the biggest problems is a lack of energy resources. Pakistan is moving away from using fossil fuels and oil to power their cities and is moving towards solar energy. Pakistan has a tropical climate and gets about three thousand hours of sunshine a year. The Pakistan government had used this to it's advantage and had been implementing solar parks and encouraging citizens to invest in the renewable source.

In June, Pakistan finished implementing a one gigawatt PV solar park. This solar park cost around 15 billion rupees and spanned over sixty five thousand acres. This solar park generates one hundred megawatts of solar power for the surrounding communities (cleantechnica.com)

Pakistan also encourages citizens to indulge in renewable energy for their homes. The Pakistan government gives many incentives to buying solar panels. For example, solar panel consumer's taxes may go down and there may be exemptions from custom duties.

While some Pakistani citizens may be able to afford solar panels, the people who cannot, rely on non-profit organizations, like the Buksh Foundation. The Buksh Foundation produces solar powered lamps that a select few are allowed to rent out. The women rent the lamps out for four rupees and all the lamps are rented out quickly, in the small villages that the women live in. These solar powered lamps have around a ten year life span, and can replace five hundred to six hundred liters of kerosene (reuters.com).

Pakistan's government is working hard to replace non-renewable energy with renewable energy, like solar power. The government works hard to keep up with the growing population and reduce the amount of blackouts and citizens living off the grid. With help from the two phase solar park project and non-profit organizations, like the Buksh Foundation, Pakistan is likely to reach it's goal rapidly.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Palestine
Delegate Name: Maddie Yaw
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Alternative and renewable energy resources have the potential to become more widely used due to their benefits. These benefits include having a lower environmental impact than carbon-emitting resources and decreasing dependence on fossil fuels. Some examples of alternative energy include wind, solar, and geothermal energy. According to the August 5, 2011 Report of the Secretary-General of the General Assembly Promotion of new and renewable sources of energy, resolutions have been made by the United Nations that promote alternative energy sources including “62/197, [which] reaffirmed the need for putting into action the full Plan of Implementation of the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD)1 as the intergovernmental framework for energy for sustainable development” (Item 20 (j) of the provisional agenda A/66/100). Also, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) assists in promoting renewable energy internationally in that it “helps developing country governments break down barriers to the deployment of renewable energy technologies” (UNEP Website). UNEP also conducts research studies on solar and wind energy, works with local banks and the international finance industry, and gives advice to developing countries regarding the best choice for alternative energy. As of 2015, Palestine is in favor of using alternative energy resources, specifically solar energy, biogas, and wind energy.

Palestine is interested in alternative energy because 91% of Palestine’s energy is currently imported, costing an estimated $374m in 2009. Alternative energy produced in Palestine would save Palestine money because we would not be buying from an outside source and energy being transported would not be lost like 26% of imported energy is now. Alternative energy sources in Palestine would also be beneficial because we would be able to use our natural resources like our frequent access to sun and wind. Solar water heating is already being used in Palestine by 60% of all households; however, there is potential for more solar energy in Palestine because 300 days of the year receive favorable sunlight conditions for solar energy. Organizations such as the Palestinian Energy and Environment Research Centre (PEC), which is affiliated with the Palestinian Energy Authority (PEA), and the Palestinian Federation of Renewable Energy Industries (FREI) have been established to encourage alternative energy. The PEC researches more efficient energy options for Palestine. The FREI’s goal is to find private investors to invest in alternative energy sources. In 2012, a national plan to reach ten percent of energy to be from alternative energy sources by 2020. In addition, the PA has approved a new law to require alternative energy resources for power generation. However, there is room for more government involvement in encouraging alternative energy in Palestine.

At the international level, Palestine has been unable to have significant influence. Not only is Palestine not a voting member of the United Nations, but Palestine is being continually oppressed by Israel. Israel’s suppression of Palestine prevents Palestine from greatly participating in the alternative energy debate in the international community. If Israel stopped holding Palestine back, Palestine would encourage alternative energy in the international community in a similar way to its encouraging alternative energy at a national level. Half of all the countries in the world do not have a measurable contribution of alternative energy to the country’s power generation. Internationally, more countries can work together to promote alternative energy so the financial burden does not fall on one country. Countries, such as the United States, can provide the raw materials for alternative energy sources such as solar panels. Each country should utilize the most adaptable alternative energy sources for its country’s environment, like how Palestine uses solar energy.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Panama
Delegate Name: Rose Rumery
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Climate change, presumably heavily influenced by man-made greenhouse gas emissions that trap heat in our atmosphere, is a pressing issue across the globe. The persistent threat of global temperature rising across the world presents the possibility of many alarming natural alterations that include rising sea levels, decreased agricultural yields, and fluctuating weather trends. In the past, the United Nations has promoted energy policies and currently is working towards regional and national plans to initiate shifts towards renewable energy sources such as biomass, solar energy, hydropower, and geothermal energy. Panama recognizes the urgent threat of climate change and desires for countries across the globe to implement their policies of using alternative energy. Every region will be directly affected by the rising temperatures; therefore, financial support should be provided to countries without the means to establish alternative energy sources.

Non-renewable resources, such as gasoline, have garnered attention for their harmful effects on the environment in the United Nations policy making community. The burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and natural gas, for energy has been proven to have detrimental environmental consequences. The chemical imbalances in our atmosphere that result from carbon emission cause issues such as acid rain, air pollution, and, unfortunately, global climate change. Considering these ramifications, it is necessary make an international shift towards the use of alternative energy sources. Panama urges other countries to take advantage of renewable resources, like geothermal energy, solar power, hydroelectricity, and biomass, to develop environmentally conscious nations that can sustain future generations.

Panama strives to create a green and sustainable region on the basis of alternative energy. Panama could, however, use stronger action from state governments to align the energy policies with natural phenomenons. For example, hydroelectricity currently produces approximately 60% of Panama’s energy, but Panama needs to emphasize more on biomass and geothermal projects in order to cope with the threat of droughts. Ultimately, Panama calls for international cooperation in renewable energy dependency, generosity in providing developing countries with the financial means to support this shift, and governmental action on a local level to address environmental preservation needs in accordance with geographical circumstances.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Portugal
Delegate Name: Hope Rozeveld
School: Mattawan High School

As the population of the world increases, so do carbon emissions. Portugal certainly understands this, and has been working at finding alternative energy sources within the country for over a decade. In 2014, 63% of energy used in Portugal was supplied by renewable sources.

One way that Portugal has been able to do this is through the establishment of a new energy policy created in 2001. The programme consists of many different measures that all work towards increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of the Portuguese economy. Over the first 7 years, natural gas was introduced and the energy market was opened up to competition, instead of being controlled by the state. The introduction of natural gas has led to less dependency on oil and coal, better balancing energy sources. More recently, focus has shifted to the use of renewable energy. By encouraging the use of renewable energy, Portugal has certainly seen carbon dioxide emissions go down which has served to better protect the environment in the country. Portugal certainly would suggest this approach at conference as it has worked out well for the country, and it is more progressive so countries will not be immediately forced into anything. Additionally, it leaves room for citizens to have plenty of freedom when it comes to choosing their desired energy source. Portugal firmly believes that government must always play a role in state matters. Portugal is willing to work with anyone who is open to such things, but will also listen to other potential ideas.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Matt Harmon
School: Royal Oak High School

Russia would like to show its concern for the changing global climate and we believe that while there are many conflicting views on the topic of climate change in general, it is real and the best approach at this time to immediately combat climate change is by promoting alternative energy. The issue at hand is not an issue that affects some countries and doesn’t affect others. Every country is affected by this issue and that is why we believe this committee must come to an agreement on how to implement alternative energy all across the globe. We as a global community have tried to pass legislation that regulates our pollution and influence on the climate (i.e. Kyoto Protocol) but this committee must draft a resolution that everyone can agree with. We believe reducing every country’s greenhouse gas emissions through alternative energy is the most logical and reasonable solution to fighting climate change at this time.

One question we must address in both debate and resolutions in this committee is how can we include both developed and developing countries in a solution that satisfies both groups while making sure we do not give special privileges? A country cannot be given completely new technology to help reduce their footprint such as hydroelectric power stations and wind farms without another country objecting. The solution has to be fair to both sides. Another issue Russia would like to see debated is which specific forms of alternative energy are the best to be implemented and will help in the long term? After years of experimenting with alternative energy, we have seen renewable energy prices skyrocket. We need to find a source that is the best for developing countries. What can the UN do if a country does not want help from the UN due to their crumbling economy or other miscellaneous issues going on in their country? Should any resolution provide a way for a country to “opt-out” from any requirements set forth by any documentation? Russia believes that if there is any way for a country to opt-out of requirements, then it is not a global compromise so we must be creative in our solutions and learn from our mistakes we examined from the Kyoto Protocol. Those are some questions we would like to be considered when in debate.

Russia has been promoting alternative energy for years. Although we are working to reduce our own carbon footprint, we are not blind to the issues of the world. We need a resolution that recognizes the fact that every country is at a different step in their process to promote alternative energy. We are all on the road to finding a renewable source of energy despite some countries’ lack of a program. If a country is not concerned with the environment at this point, we are in for a rough future if we want globally-minded decisions. A resolution must have a comprehensive plan for developing renewable energy programs. It must also structure energy sources so countries have a better idea as to what will work for their geography. Russia believes that this committee will have the most problem with the specifics of measuring where countries are in the process. If we persevere and act like a group, we believe we will be that much closer to reducing climate change.

Russia believes that we could do a lot of important work in this committee. We believe that this committee will take some very large steps in promoting alternative energy and we look forward to compromising on any solution we create in committee.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Serbia
Delegate Name: Colton Humphrey
School: Fishers High School

The people of Serbia have had a strong reliance on coal as we were the only Balkan country with large coal reserves. We are also the first country to jump on the renewable energy train. Starting in 1992 we built many hydroelectric power plants in Danube, Drina, Vlasina, and the Lim rivers. While we also have built thermal power plants in the cities of Kostolac and Kosovo. In 2002 the amount of renewable energy we produced was 31.696 Billion kWh. Of this 67% was thermal energy and 33% was hydroelectric power. Serbia has also used biomass burning as an energy source and has been increasing the use of it until present day. We were also and currently the leading environmental country in the Balkan area.

Serbia strongly believes that the encouragement and generation of alternative energy sources is important. Serbia has taken many steps in order to to make our country less reliable on fossil fuels and more integrated with alternative energy sources. In recent years we have created legislation with Italy that allow us to sell pure renewable energy to them, at a higher price than regular energy in order to help us accumulate the funds for more clean energy projects. We also have created legislation that allows the determination of origin when selling energy in order to show where then energy we sell is coming from. This legislation will allow the purchaser to see if the energy is clean renewable energy or fossil fuel based energy. We have increased our renewable energy recently to 4.30 Million tons of oil equivalent most of which comes from the burning of biomass and hydroelectric plants.

The country of Serbia proposes a resolution to help encourage the use of alternative energy throughout the world. Serbia would like to see the use of more hydroelectric dams in several of the waterways of the world, by doing this the amount of clean renewable energy will be accessible to many of the worlds countries. We also would like to encourage the use thermal power plants in factories and and cities. Just being powered by simple steam would be easy enough to provide massive amounts of clean renewable energy. Serbia would like to see that the use of biomass burning would be used as another alternative for energy. Biomass energy is simply the burning of material or trash to provide energy. This resolution would be the easiest for most countries and a great starting point. Serbia would also like to see the increased of use of solar panels and wind generators as other alternative power sources for cleaner future.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Page Wolowski
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Renewable energy sources can be used to produce electricity with fewer environmental impacts. Sustainable energy can reduce poverty, improve environmental challenges, and promote social progress. Many programs have been focusing on this issue in the past 15 years. One being UNEP (United Nations Environmental Program), who has been implementing a great number of tools to support countries and their resource efficiency. Another program is DESA (Department of Economic and Social Affairs), who has been working with governments on renewable energy policies and strategies at the national level. This problem has become a growing epidemic throughout the world and needs to be addressed. Currently the problem is creating awareness for the need of alternative energy sources to countries around the world. Alternative Energy is important due to all of the benefits it holds. These include environmental benefits, jobs and economy improvements, energy security, and social stability. South Africa is very concerned about this issue and is preparing themselves for the problems that need to be addressed. This topic is very important to South Africa because their country is energy-intensive, meaning that the country uses a large amount of energy for economic output. One of South Africa’s major issues is their air pollution. 93% of their electricity generation is currently based on coal. Currently, the country is rated 5th out of 65 of the world’s greatest producers of coal. Their heavy dependence on coal is killing thousands of South Africans every year. Due to this problem, South Africa has developed some of the most comprehensive environmental legislation in the world, including ‘The White Paper’. Today, renewables are delivering clean energy, technology, foreign investment, rural development, community benefits, skills, and new research. Its renewable energy sector has rapidly emerged as a global energy. The 2014 United Nations Environment Program put South Africa among the top 10 countries for renewable energy investments. The government’s efforts have been very successful, creating more than 109,000 jobs and cutting 4.4 million tons of carbon dioxide. It has been named a world-first atlas and is the 10th biggest solar market in the world for installations of 5MW and above.

With more than 2,500 hours of sunshine a year, South Africa is in the world’s top three countries for solar power potential, and wind is abundant on the coast and inland. Although, recently South Africa’s chronic power outages are threatening the country’s productivity, economic performance, and competitiveness. President Jacob Zuma recently stated, “The country is currently experiencing serious energy constraints which are an impediment to economic growth and is a major inconvenience to everyone in the country.” South Africa depends on the company ‘Eskom’, which generates about 95% of the electricity used in their county. This company has reported to citizens to expect regular black outs, leading to an international power crisis. The blackouts have suppressed mining production and forced businesses to shut down. South Africa is seeking to build a 9,600 megawatt nuclear-energy program. President Jacob Zuma has signed agreements and carried out vendor workshops with the United States, South Korea, Russia, France, and China. Zuma also announced in his State of the National Address, "We have developed a plan which involves short-, medium- and long-term responses. The short- and medium-term plan involves improved maintenance of Eskom power stations, enhancing the electricity generation capacity and managing the electricity demand, The long-term plan involves finalizing our long-term energy security master plan. As a priority we are going to stabilize Eskom's finances to enable the utility to manage the current period. In this regard, [the] government will honor its commitment to give Eskom around R23-billion in the next fiscal year."

South Africa shares the belief that lowering the carbon footprint is as important as the doing of business itself. The first International Renewable Energy Conference was held on South African soil in Cape Town in the beginning of October. It was agreed that Africa could make use of its abundant natural resources to create sustainable energy. Delegates declared that they would upscale and mainstream renewables to achieve a global energy transition. We encourage our fellow countries to do the same. Action must be made if we want to see change. In order to shift our energy use to alternative sources, a detailed plan must be made, just like Jacob Zuma outlined in his speech.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Meghana Ranabothu
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The increase of carbon emissions can create weather catastrophes, food shortages, and a rise in sea levels. A way to decrease carbon emissions is by relying on and encouraging the use of alternative energy. By 2014, Korean carbon emissions have exceeded 600 million metric tons, making the country one of the largest contributor of greenhouse gases. Due to electricity production, industry, and residential areas burning fossil fuels for heat, the carbon emission levels became high over the last few years. The Republic of Korea has been actively collaborating with and seeking advice from UNEP. In 2009, at the 64th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations, president Lee Myung-bak stated, “The underlying objective of the Low Carbon Green Growth strategy is to promote sustainable development, by putting in place a positive cycle in which the environment revives the economy and the economy preserves the environment.” The Seoul Metropolitan Government has been promoting renewable energy. In June 2015, the Republic of Korea submitted its Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, targeting reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 37% below business-as-usual (BAU) emissions by 2030.

In 2009, the government announced the Green Growth strategy, which is a plan to reduce carbon emissions and also promote renewable energy. UNEP provided a report on the country’s National Strategy for Green Growth and discussed the plans that the country has put in place to achieve this vision. With initial funding of $83.6 billion (representing 2 percent of GDP), the Republic of Korea’s first Five-Year Plan (2009-2013) for Green Growth has doubled the generation of energy from renewable sources. The Republic of Korea demonstrated engagement in the international level by boosting efforts towards establishing a green economy in other countries. East Asia Climate Partnership, led by the Korea International Cooperation Agency, tries to help resolve climate change in developing countries and promotes green growth in Asia. In 1999, the basic plan for restructuring the electricity industry privatized Korea Electric Power Corporation. As a result, five thermal generation companies, one hydropower, and one nuclear energy corporation were formed in April 2001. Created in 2008, Korea Carbon Finance manages the national carbon market. Korea is part of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, an international environmental treaty that tries to stabilize the amount of greenhouse emissions.

In 2015, the Republic of Korea's Emissions Trading System imposed a limit on companies that discharged 125,000 tons or more carbon annually. In the Republic of Korea, renewable energy is promoted by supplementary payments, tax exemptions for dividends, and long-term loans for manufacturing facilities. The Republic of Korea is also playing a leading role in green-growth policy advising. The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), founded in 2010 in the Republic of Korea as a NGO, works to advance the practice of green growth by supporting the development of the strategies in developing and emerging countries. Other countries should follow the Republic of Korea in order to improve their energy system with renewable energy. The countries should work together with UNEP and GGGI to increase alternative energy sources and diminish the negative impacts of carbon emissions.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Spain
Delegate Name: Alexis Jones
School: Vicksburg High School

Beginning the 1980’s, Spain has been encouraging alternative energy sources through the passage of Law for Energy Conservation. Since then, Spain has implemented a variety of policies that encourage renewable electricity with grid access, specified tariffs, and by marketing premium options for certain renewable power generators. As a result of the feed-in tariffs and market premium incentives for solar photovoltaic establishment, Spain became the largest global market for solar power installations in 2008.

According to Red Electrica de Espana, the Spanish Peninsula got 69% of its electricity in March from technologies that produce zero carbon emissions. The majority of the renewable energy comes from wind (22.5%) and nuclear energy following closely behind. Spain is the 4th biggest producer of wind power, and attempting to make wind power to supply 40% of its electricity consumption (in 2020), serving as a strong idol country for others to follow.

While Spain has already experienced positive outputs with this change, the rest of the world is still yet to catch up. Although the cost of building alternative energy technologies is an issue for some countries, the results and benefits of this change pays off. If funding is an issue, more government action and also community action could be put in place to ensure the ability of these being made, in order to be able to lower greenhouse gas emissions, and air pollution. If the rest of the world could commit to alternative energy, the fear of global warming could be resolved and with guidance from countries of the European Nation, where alternative energy is already thriving and in action, the change would be easier.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Abigail Pointer
School: Forest Hills Central High School

For several years now the globe has been concerned with the warming of the planet and the severe environmental repercussions that it causes. A major cause of the warming of the planet is the burning of fossil fuels(which are also scarce and unrewable resources) as well as other types of air pollution. In order to combat this issue, alternative energy is being heavily encouraged by countries that can manage and afford it. Sudan has been made several actions in attempt to increase the amount of alternative energy used within their country, and due to Sudan’s diverse topographical range, many types of energy sources can be supported. The switch in Sudan is greatly needed, as 44% of electricity is generated via fossil fuels.

Though Sudan’s electricity is heavily based off fossil fuels, the country is also actively looking for new ways to increase the amount of alternative energy used. Actions such as the Sudan Renewable Energy Master Plan, written in 2005, have been taken in order to allocate money to install more photovoltaics and biomass co-generation throughout the country.This was successful to some extent, because in 2009, 47.8% of total gigawatt hours were reliant on alternative energy. In 2014, Sudan and the UNDP also came to an agreement that would help utilize funds to create a long term wind-energy project to diversify power sources, limit reliance on fossil fuels, and reduce greenhouse gases.

Despite the optimistic statistic of 47.8% of energy being alternative, only 35% of Sudan’s population is connected to the electric grid. This means that 65% of the people in Sudan either are without power at all or more commonly, belong to a village that has hooked a small generator to a diesel powered irrigation pump. This method is inefficient, expensive, and environmentally unfriendly, causing Sudan to be more economically inefficient. Sudan hopes to acquire more solar power in order to transition irrigation into an environmentally effective process. This will reduce emissions of CO2 and the burning of excessive diesel fuel.

Sudan heavily supports the use of alternative energy in order to preserve fossil fuel and lessen pollution. Sudan has seen the benefits that using alternative energy can bring, and encourages any country that has the potential and means to transition their energy sources to alternative. Since there are so many different types of alternative energy, such as geothermal, wind, solar, biomass, and much more, finding a geographical/climate that will lend itself to usage should not be difficult for most countries. Though it may be more expensive, if all countries begin to slowly shift into alternative ways, the long term benefits for the Earth and future generations will overshadow the present costs.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Sweden
Delegate Name: Daniel Slaw
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Currently, the global population of over 7 billion is about three times higher than the sustainable level. Many studies have shown that Earth’s resources are only enough to sustain about 2 billion people living at the European standard of living. This is a very dire and important issue. The more we use Earth’s resources at unsustainable levels, the more the long term sustainable level actually declines. How can we become sustainable? We could cut down the global consumption of Earth’s resources by about 50% or we could cut down the population by about 4 billion people. Obviously, these are not feasible solutions. However, there is a practical solution: alternative energy.

Sweden has already acknowledge that this is the path of the future and has made significant progress towards this ever since the 1970s. In the 1970s, there was an oil crisis, and as a result, Sweden invested heavily in alternative energy sources. In 1970, oil accounted for over 75% of Sweden’s energy sources. Now, by 2012, it was only 21.5%. Sweden also promotes alternative and renewable energy for all Swedish businesses. In fact, IKEA, a Swedish furniture and appliance store, set a new

sustainability strategy in 2012. It has already achieved a 98% green energy rating in Sweden by using wind power, geo-energy, and renewable district heating.

Sweden encourages that countries move towards carbon-free emission electricity and energy. Currently, about 78% of Sweden’s electricity comes from nuclear power and hydroelectric power. With that being said, Sweden would like to specifically encourage the alternative energy sources of nuclear power, hydroelectric power, solar power, wind power, and biofuel.

In 2009, the EU created the Renewable Energy Directive to display an overall policy for the production of renewable energy sources in the EU. The directive specifically shows renewable energy targets for 2020 for countries while figuring in the starting point of the country and its ability to create more renewable energy. The lowest is 10% for Malta and the highest is 49% for Sweden. However, Sweden has already passed this 2020 goal.

Sweden would like to help countries that are struggling to meet their target. To do this, Sweden would like to raise funds from wealthy countries that are willing to support this very important issue. The funds would be used to develop renewable energy sources in the countries that need them the most. Sweden would like to work with the other leaders in alternative and renewable energy. This is not limited to EU members. Some of these leaders are Norway and Finland. Countries that Sweden would like to help are the United Kingdom, Luxembourg, and Hungary just to name a few.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Switzerland
Delegate Name: Julien Levesque
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Global warming became an international UN policy issue starting in 1971 when the SMIC (a conference of Swedish and MIT scientists) met to discuss the gravity of the growing issues of climate change. It goes without saying, the concerns of those scientists have ultimately been validated by copious amounts of data, birthed from industrious sovereignties which had been damaging the environment for decades. International environmental protection awareness is necessary, but there is a surprising lack of action against the injustices committed by grossly industrious super-powers.

To combat the absence of environmental justice in the past decades, alternative energy should be a competitive resource for sovereignties interested in protecting the earth that we’ve inhabited for eons, but at the current rate, may only continue to inhabit for a few hundred years.

Many attempts have been made by the country of Switzerland to lessen impact of environmental destruction. In 2011, Swiss government imparted environmental protection and industry restriction on the growth of nuclear energy use, and starting in 2012, a decline of nuclear energy use within Switzerland became apparent. 77% of all Swiss citizens are opposed to nuclear energy use, reflected by the significant growth of recycling, nearly double the energy production within the nation produced from electricity, and a growth in railway infrastructure to counteract vehicle emission pollution.

Switzerland’s national contribution to climate change has been significantly reduced by an induction of numerous types of alternative energy; excluding the use of nuclear energy, expanding low pollution electric power, and producing energy from repurposing recyclable products.

These reformations have been an effective component in improving the health of the global environment. Alternative energies, particularly those used by Switzerland, have proven to be useful environmental policies in the preservation of our national parks, mountains, and lakes. Reforming the use of nuclear energy is important in the reduction of global climate change, however it is not among the beliefs of Switzerland to impose on the sovereign privileges of independant nations to act on these allegations. Sustainable proof has been presented in the effectiveness of said policies and regulations, however, there is strength and balance in impartiality, and in totality, we feel our actions should be a stance of leadership rather than an imposition in the tendency of other nations to promote alternative energy.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Togo
Delegate Name: Maria Pacifico
School: Royal Oak High School

The country of Togo would like to address the problem of greenhouse gases affecting the world. Though Togo has not personally caused a lot of carbon emission, Togo is aware of the global issues of greenhouse gases and understands it needs to be fixed. Nevertheless, Togo has urbanization on the rise which is increasing our carbon emissions. Togo has released 0.05% of the world’s total carbon emissions. This number is going to increase through the next years if we do not do anything to prevent it. Togo’s temperature is predicted to increase 0.60°C to 0.71°C in the next 10 years.

Since urbanization has grown in Togo, air pollution has gone up and air quality has gone down. 21.7% of our fuel is made up from fossil fuels. Most, if not all, of the fossil fuels used are caused by burning trees we cut down from our forests. Togo has one of the largest deforestation rates in the world. We have lost 44% of our forests and lose an average of 3.4% more of our forest every year.

In 2012, USAID gave $1.8 million to Togo and five other West African states to reduce greenhouse emissions from deforestation and another $1.2 million to help promote hydroelectric power plants in West Africa for electricity. Togo now uses 78.3% of their electricity with hydroelectric plants but still has a major deforestation rate. Togo plans on trying to reforest thousands of trees. “The weakness of reforestation coupled with deforestation has significant negative impacts on the living conditions of rural populations. Our goal is to have a national forest cover from 20% to 2035,” the Minister of the Environment and Forest Resources, Andre Johnson, said. With the decrease of deforestation, Togo and Africa are trying to increase the amount of hydro, wind, and sun power. The International Renewable Energy Agency plans in 2030, Africa and will install 100 GW of wind power, 100 GW of hydro, and 70 GW of solar throughout the continent. Over the years of 2015 and 2030, this operation will cost around $70 billion but will reduce Africa’s usual fuels by 60%.

Togo has signed on many other plans and resolutions like the Environmental Action Plan (NEAP), Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) 2010-2050, Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), etc. Togo also supports the newly made Paris Agreement which asks countries to help to prevent the rise of the global temperature.

In conclusion, in Togo and everywhere else in the world, the global temperature is rising. To stop this we need to change the ways we use energy, trying to eliminate the burning of fossil fuels and further contribution to greenhouse gases by using other forms of energy such as solar power. Togo does not have a large carbon footprint, but we still wish to use alternate resources to reduce carbon emissions and have widespread sustainable energy.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Trinidad and Tobago
Delegate Name: Ashia Beason
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Trinidad and Tobago is overall pleased to be in this committee. Trinidad and Tobago is one of the most prosperous countries in the Caribbean, being the leading Caribbean producer of petroleum and natural gas. That being said, it also attracts considerable foreign direct investment, particularly in energy. Therefore, Trinidad and Tobago is heavily dependent on these resources.

Given its abundant domestic fossil fuel resources, Trinidad and Tobago has little economic motivation to to explore and expand renewable energy generation, However, it is taking steps to prepare their foundations to support renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies, with about 99.8% of the country still using fossil fueled energy and about 0.2% using other renewable sources of energy. Past support for renewable energy and energy efficiency includes tax credits for installations of equipment, tax exemptions for imported equipment and depreciation accounting benefits.

Trinidad and Tobago has a growing interest in the use of alternative energy resources and believed it to be a splendid idea for various reasons, to address the issue of climate change, possibly developing new economic sectors, and reducing the government's fuel subsidy liabilities. Trinidad and Tobago was also an active supporter of The Sustainable Energy Action plan in 2013, and hopes to further aid in the spread of alternative energy sources.

Central Intelligence Agency. Central Intelligence Agency, n.d. Web. 05 Nov. 2015.

"Wind LCA Harmonization (Fact Sheet), NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory)." (2013): n. pag. Nrel.gov. Web.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Tunisia
Delegate Name: Michael Fick
School: Williamston High School

Fossil Fuels are running out and causing too many carbon emissions; these emissions continuously hurt the environment and are speeding up the process of climate change. It is time to make the gradual transmission to clean alternative energy.

Tunisia and the world have been mainly using oil for its source of energy but the oil stock pile is running out. Until we find out a way to reach the oil deep that is currently unreachable we will be completely out of the world’s main source of fuel and energy, the world needs a backup plan! Also what about those carbon emissions, aren’t those destroying the ozone layer? It is time to implement a system that will slowly transform this world into an eco-friendly Planet with sustainable energy.

Tunisia has thought of several solutions that if were put into effect will truly make a difference towards saving this planet and allowing the restoring of fossil fuels; Tunisia doesn’t want to totally end the production of energy through oil but wants to give the planet a break and allow fossil fuels to regenerate. First, countries need to start funding renewable energy even more; renewable energy will lack the amount of energy needed to sustain a country at first but that is why we will use fossil fuels to make up the rest of the energy until there is enough sustainable energy to keep countries running. Once every country is converted to renewable energy only then can we start to let the earth recreate more fossil fuels. If technical difficulties were to occur and a country does not get the energy needed then that country may use remaining fossil fuels as a backup. For countries that border water, water turbines would be the main clean energy source or if a country is mainly dessert one would have a lot of solar panels. A person might ask what do we do when there is no sun; well by this stage we are talking about so many solar panels that it will have enough built up energy that you will not run out, and if you do that is what the built fossil fuel is for. Another person might ask what if a poorer country cannot afford said plan; this is a global problem and to stop other countries would be willing to help financially.

This problem with carbon emissions and running out of fossil fuel has come too far. With the plan Tunisia has offered we believe we can start to cut down on environmental damage and regenerate fossil fuel for an more clean world for all of it inhabitants.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Nick Farrugia
School: Mattawan High School

As countries continue to develop and expand physically, economically and socially, there are negative repercussions. Although there are several prominent negatives to wide span expansion and growth, one of the most detrimental is the negative effects of fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are a resource quickly dwindling to nothing, and with little to fall back on, this issue has escalated greatly. With the nonrenewable fossil fuels remaining, many of them excrete toxic and harmful waste that not only affects the citizens of a particular nation, but the citizens of every other nation as well. Throughout the years, the most concerning waste has been the carbon dioxide emissions. These carbon and greenhouse gas emissions have been at the forefront of the changes in the climate including rising temperatures, food shortages and unpredictable severe weather. With the continued reliance on fossil fuels, these problems will only worsen. Transitioning reliance from fossil fuels to alternative forms of energy will be a difficult one for many nations, but it will be necessary for the future.

The United Kingdom has made great recent strides to transition from fossil fuels to alternative energy. As a leading European and worldly nation, the UK has looked to set an example for all nations to begin a more environmentally friendly energy plan. The UK has set a realistic 2020 renewables target to deliver 15% of their energy demand through renewable energy sources. In an effort to limit carbon emissions to stabilize the environment and the economy with other energy sources, the UK has invested in renewable heat and transport biofuels. The recent Renewable Heat Initiative has allowed the nation to invest in more renewable heat sources for industry and consumers. In addition to this, the UK government has been engaged in discussion with the European Commission regarding sustainable transport biofuels that show reduced carbon emissions. The government fully supports renewable energy as part of a secure, low-carbon energy mixture. Transport biofuels with low carbon emissions, gas, nuclear power, and carbon capture and storage are all integral parts of the renewable energy plan of the UK’s government.

The UK understands that such energy plans are not probable in every nation, but stresses the importance of investing in renewable energy. Most importantly, the UK supports small community alternative energy products to find sustainable energy sources in every facet of a community being environmentally, economically and socially. By providing a quintessential framework to provide for all nations, funded by the UN and NGO’s, small community renewable energy projects can be provided for developing nations. Once these small projects are started, the continuation of funding from the UN and NGOs can help to jumpstart alternative energy prevalence. Extensive research in such energy options can facilitate further economic growth and national opportunities for economic, environmental, and social growth.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Lake Wann
School: Fishers High School

In the year 2014, the United States of America used around 8% of the available natural gas, totaling at 26.79 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. The total populous used 3,219,321 million cubic feet of natural gas last year. At this rate, natural gas resources could be depleted by the mid 2070’s. The United States of America does not believe that we should sit idly by and wait for our recourses to deplete. New sources of fuel and energy, that are renewable and useable, need to be found to prevent a potential collapse in economy, or a collapse in society.

Currently there are researching trying to find a suitable replacement for natural gases, and the most suitable candidate seems to be hydrogen cells. Hydrogen cells are currently not a useful method of fuel, just because there is no clean way to obtain hydrogen, as the United States of America currently gets a majority of our hydrogen via natural gases, which as was stated earlier, are not a useful option. Currently research is in progress to refine this process and synthesis gas via solar power.

The United States of America would support any delegations that agree with the United States of America that a new form of energy needs to be researched, and condemns any delegations that believes that we as a populous should sit idly by and await the inevitable.

Hydrogen cells being developed could launch a new age of exploration and development last seen at the start of the 20th century. Hydrogen cells are not the only option though, as solar power, biomass, and geothermal energy are all preferred to the continued use of natural gas. Alternative energy needs to be a top priority, and the cooperation of foreign nations would be greatly appreciated by the United States of America, and aptly rewarded.

Research needs to be done to find a suitable source, and sooner rather than later. These advancements are crucial to society, and could launch the world into a new golden age of technology, the likes of which has not been seen in half a decade. Hydrogen cells need to be researched further and streamlined to provide clean and efficient energy to provide for the world. Hydrogen cells are currently not useful, as the most efficient way to gain access to hydrogen is through natural gas deposits, which as stated above, are being used up at an alarming rate.

Hydrogen cells need to be researched for reasons other than just to replace natural gas. The development of hydrogen cells can provide clean and efficient fuel for uses such as space travel and under-water exploration, as hydrogen is abundant both in outer space and underwater, as water is in fact 2/3rds hydrogen, and synthesis is not particularly difficult.

The United States of America sternly believes that alternative fuel needs to be researched. The United States would side with any state that would use these alternative energy sources, such as hydrogen cells, biomass, and thermal energy, for the better use of mankind and the exploration and expansion of the world population into the void of space.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Emma Brinks
School: East Grand Rapids High School

Despite the conclusion years ago that we would soon deplete our energy resources, leading to the evident frenzy for alternative energy sources, this is not, in fact true. 100 countries including, most notably, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Iran, and Iraq have proven oil reserves. These reserves total around 1,481,526 million barrels (MMbbl) worldwide. These reserves are only those that have been proven so far and there are likely far greater reserves than that which we have already identified and proven.

While alternative energy sources present many beneficial elements, Venezuela believes that they usurp many of our resources and are often incredibly expensive and that if the majority of our energy is produced from alternative energy sources this could be very threatening the the whole energy system. These sources of energy are often extremely inefficient and unstable due to the reliability on inconsistent weather patterns. This also means that the systems used for harvesting these energy sources are very vulnerable to storms, floods, and all of the other elements. They are sometimes also still in experimental stages, which can cause them to be not only unreliable, but also require funding for research and testing. Venezuela also believes that integrating alternative energy could lead to economic instability and shortage of energy sources in multiple areas due to the economic reliance of some countries on fossil fuels, natural gas, and other current energy sources. The perils of switching completely or majorly to alternative energy production would be numerous, a foremost of these being cost. The alternative energy sources are not cost efficient and even the well developed countries of the world are hard-pressed to find funding for producing these energy sources. The prices of switching all or most energy production systems over to these new forms of energy would be crippling. Smaller, less developed countries would do not have the money to fund the construction and all other inputs needed to fund the alternative energy systems.Venezuela also believes that integrating alternative energy could lead to economic instability and shortage of energy sources in multiple areas due to the economic reliance of some countries on fossil fuels, natural gas, and other current energy sources.

Topic: Encouraging Alternative Energy
Country: Zimbabwe
Delegate Name: Irene Yi
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Zimbabwe joined United Nations and its Environmental Programme in 1980. In the last decade, Zimbabwe has come to depend on fuelwood for energy sources. Zimbabwe is also rich in coal deposits but does not have oil or gas resources; they depend on imports for this source of energy. Zimbabwe’s refined petroleum and diesel oil comes from South Africa and a pipeline from the Mozambique port of Beira to Mutare. However, Zimbabwe utilizes animal resources, as animals contribute around 6.8 million liters of diesel in agriculture. Zimbabwe’s government recently launched a solar energy campaign, dated September 2015.

Fuelwood has been the most important energy source in Zimbabwe since 2001, estimating to stand for half of the country’s total energy consumption. However, it has caused many environmental issues. Zimbabwe’s deforestation is accounted for by the fuelwood harvest; other environmental problems such as erosion and diminishing wildlife have accompanied this development.

Coal deposits are common in Zimbabwe; there are 30 billion tons of coal in 21 deposits that can last over 100 years (at the rate of production since 2001). The Chinese company, China Africa Sunlight Energy, began work in early 2014 on a coal-fired electricity plant in the western part of Zimbabwe. In total, there are $2 billion worth of energy products in Zimbabwe. Chinese ambassador, Lin Lin, delivered a keynote speech in July 2015, expressing his concerns for developing energy sectors and planning a great number of projects to be located in Zimbabwe.

Electricity in Zimbabwe is generation from two main stations, the Kariba Power Station and the Hwange Thermal Power Station. Coal fired stations have been neglected of maintenance, and therefore need major upgrades; furthermore, Zimbabwe’s stations have frequent production stops, leading to long lasting blackouts. Lack of electricity can hinder economic growth, as even imports from neighboring countries cannot make up for electrical under-capacity. Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) is a government owned company that distributes and generates power. All over Zimbabwe, there are small scale power generators used in an attempt to solve the issue.

Hydropower in Zimbabwe has a great potential for alternative energy sources. The Kariba Dam power station is one example, though there is still hope along the Zambesi river. Solar power has potential both in a smaller scale, such as water heating, or in larger scale, like solar power plants. However, the nation's current economic condition makes rapid solar power development seem unrealistic.