The NGO Solidarity for the Protection of Children’s Rights (SOPRODE) recently launched a crucial plea for the cancellation of any new exploitation of oil and gas blocks in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This initiative aims to prevent further deterioration of biodiversity in this already environmentally fragile country.
At the heart of this campaign is an urgent call for the Congolese authorities to adopt more ambitious and responsible environmental policies. By highlighting the potential dangers posed by the exploitation of new oil and gas blocks, SOPRODE aims to ensure a sustainable future for Congo and its people.
According to SOPRODE’s Executive Director, Robert Kitumaini, it is imperative that the Deputy Prime Minister of the Environment and the Minister of Hydrocarbons heed this urgent call. By taking part in the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution in Busan, South Korea, these government representatives are in a position to significantly influence the country’s environmental policy.
In supporting their advocacy on the need to cancel calls for tenders for the exploitation of these non-renewable resources, SOPRODE emphasizes the risks of biodiversity degradation, threats to local communities and negative impacts on international commitments related to climate change. In addition, SOPRODE calls on the DRC to support a strict and legally binding global treaty to reduce plastic pollution, while promoting sustainable alternatives and strengthening waste management at the national level.
It is essential to emphasize that this advocacy is part of a vision of a just and sustainable energy transition. By focusing on the development of renewable energy solutions such as mini solar power plants and hydroelectricity, SOPRODE is showing the way towards a greener and more environmentally friendly future for the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In conclusion, it is essential that the Congolese authorities take these recommendations into consideration and actively engage in the protection of the country’s environment and biodiversity. SOPRODE’s advocacy is an urgent call to action to ensure a sustainable future for future generations.