Tonga Commits to Achieving SDG Goal 7

TONGA’S unwavering commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal’s agenda remains steadfast.

The Legislative Assembly of Tonga continues to uphold SDG Goal 7 for affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy as a key catalyst to sustain economic growth.

The Speaker of Parliament Lord Fakafanua revealed this during his address at the 2nd World Parliamentary Forum on Sustainable Development in Indonesia on Wednesday September 12th.

He said this year’s theme “Partnerships towards sustainable energies for all” has provided an ideal platform for which Parliaments can track progress and future efforts towards achieving the SDG Goal 7. A call for affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.

Lord Speaker said Tonga has continuously been challenged with its high dependence on fossil fuels. To date, the diesel fuel bill makes up about 10 percent of GDP and 15 percent of national imports.

“There are high greenhouse gas emissions, high electricity production costs and tariffs and high dependency on imports. These impacts and has spillover effects on the economy, businesses … our citizens who bear the brunt of the costly power charges and the unreliable power supply especially,” Lord Fakafanua said.

Tonga remains extremely highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and fossil fuels have done substantial damage to its environment and marine resources.

For that reason, Lord Fakafanua maintained Tonga’s motivation to achieve clean energy is through addressing the impacts of climate change and global warming.

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Source: Parliament of Tonga online Media centre