Any money given by the UK to help developing countries tackle climate change must be offered as grants rather than loans, Jesuit Missions has said.
It comes after Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke at climate conference COP29, where he outlined his government’s plans when it comes to dealing with challenges to the environment.
His talk included a commitment to honouring a pledge made by the Conservatives to provide £11.6 billion of climate finance between April 2021 and March 2026.
But Richard Solly, Advocacy and Campaigns Officer at Jesuit Missions, said a lot will hinge on the details of this funding.
“Crucial to the usefulness of this money will be whether it is provided as grants or loans,” he said.
“Many Heads of State and Government from the Global South made the point during Tuesday’s (12 November) sessions that loans undermine countries’ ability to respond to climate change because they increase debt and debt servicing costs.”
As part of its campaign for COP29, in collaboration with other Jesuit organisations in Europe and Africa, Jesuit Missions is calling for proper financial support for developing countries to help them address climate change issues.
This includes a Loss and Damage Fund, which will “provide sufficient resources to address the devastating impacts of climate change so that the most vulnerable communities, especially in the Global South, are effectively supported and prioritised”.
“Debt cancellation will free up resources for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts”
It is also demanding the cancellation of climate debt, primarily the Global South’s unpayable debts.
“Debt cancellation will free up their resources for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, and to invest in a sustainable future,” it notes in a joint statement with Jesuits and other Jesuit groups.
In his talk to delegates in Baku, Azerbaijan, Starmer also confirmed the UK’s target to reduce greenhouse gases by at least 81% on 1990 levels by 2035.
He said he wants the UK to be at the “frontline” of dealing with climate change, citing measures already taken including closing the country’s final coal power plant and establishing Great British Energy.
More news
Jesuit organisation urges all to respect ban on thin plastic bags
How ‘Climate Smart Agriculture’ is helping Madagascan farmers deal with extreme weather
COP29 experience ‘both empowering and challenging’, says Madagascan group backed by Jesuit Missions
