Spain brings fresh impetus to climate fight after lost decade

(Eco Business, 21 Jan 2019) Spain is ready to contribute to creating a global economy that is prosperous, fair and ecological, its prime minister says.

Spain’s prime minister vowed on Friday to make up for a decade of inaction on climate change brought on by a harsh economic recession during which he said the country lost its passion and creativity to tackle the issue.

Socialist leader Pedro Sanchez, who came into power in June, said the low-carbon transition Spain is now aiming for must be “socially just”, and not leave anyone behind, including coal miners set to lose their jobs in the shift from fossil fuels.

“Spain is ready to contribute to creating a global economy that is prosperous, fair and ecological,” Sanchez told a high-level discussion on boosting climate ambition in Madrid.

A new national plan for energy and climate, expected to mobilise investments of 235 billion euros ($267 billion) from 2021-2030, will soon be submitted to the European Union, he said.

Officials said the Socialist government also plans to present a new climate change law to parliament by the end of this month.

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Eco Business, 21 Jan 2019: Spain brings fresh impetus to climate fight after lost decade