The Fiji Bureau of Statistics has released an important report revealing that the energy sector is the largest contributor to climate change in the country. Launched in Suva, the report examines both climate statistics and the impacts of climate change on gender.
According to Senior Statistician Abdul Sahib, while all sectors contribute to climate change, energy is particularly critical because it underpins daily life. His presentation highlighted that electricity still relies heavily on fossil fuels, which are the main source of greenhouse gas emissions in Fiji, despite advancements toward renewable energy sources. In 2023, renewable energy accounted for 32 percent of the total electricity generated in Fiji, a notable increase that indicates progress.
Sahib pointed out, “One of the critical areas was the energy sector. We know we cannot live without it, so we collect comprehensive data from all the relevant ministries to produce this document that emphasizes electricity generation and renewable energy.”
The Director of the Department of Climate Change, Senivasa Waqairamasi, reinforced the report’s role in enhancing Fiji’s resilience to climate impacts. He stressed the importance of centralizing climate data to support evidence-based decision-making across various sectors.
Following the report’s launch, officials reiterated their commitment to expanding renewable energy production to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and achieve national climate goals. This effort aligns with earlier findings indicating that while Fiji’s climate indicators show progress, reliance on imported fossil fuels remains a critical challenge. The energy sector’s emissions were noted to account for a significant percentage of the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions as recently highlighted in previous reports.
The data from the Bureau of Statistics serves as a foundation for Fiji’s climate policy framework, including the Climate Change Act 2021, which aims for carbon neutrality by 2050. This comprehensive data collection enables better-directed climate actions, supporting the nation’s transition to a sustainable energy future.
Fiji’s commitment to renewable energy not only reflects a local determination to improve environmental conditions but also holds potential for inspiring similar actions globally, especially among small island nations facing analogous climate challenges. Ultimate plans for achieving 100% renewable electricity by 2030 remain ambitious, underscoring Fiji’s proactive stance in the global fight against climate change. As the world grapples with increasingly severe climate impacts, Fiji’s example highlights the importance of collaboration, innovation, and resilience in making meaningful progress towards sustainability.