Nature Trust (Malta) has said today that it welcomes the historic agreement reached in the COP21 meeting in Paris, France earlier this month.

"After many meetings in the past that ended with just promises but no concrete action, the world leaders have finally acknowledged that climate change is an issue that needs immediate action and political and global commitment."

"It was wonderful to see how the world's developed economic leaders such as the USA, have finally taken a position to act. It is also encouraging to note that emerging economies such as China and India are also looking at developing more the renewable energy sector and move away from a carbon based economy," said NTM.

The NGO added, "one now only hopes that the promises made to support the poorer countries in upgrading their operations and focus more on a green economy are withheld and a true global strategy is adopted. Earth is our home and if we do nothing we are only putting ourselves in danger Our world leaders have to also work harder to convince oil producing countries to slowly move away from this area and diversify into renewable energy and new technologies."

"We seriously need to focus on adapting to the impacts of climate change already affecting the present situation of our plant. Climate change effects are increasing as everyday we hear of more climate disasters such as floods, mega storms and drought. These impacted areas also increase the problem of migration from already hit countries."

NTM said that it also welcomes what past and present Maltese Governments have been doing towards getting our Islands in line with EU and International commitments for 2030. "However areas such as transport need to be urgently addressed as these are also having a negative effect on economy and health issues. The area of agriculture needs also to adapt to the present changes so we reduce on challenges and focus on a better economy in this sector."

In conclusion, NTM stated that it is still concerned that most of the Maltese population still do not realise what impacts such issues will have on islands such as ours, including threats to our groundwater and agricultural sector. "We need to educate more the local community so that as an Island we can also start thinking locally to give our share globally."

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