Hungarian Conservative

Former President János Áder spoke about his podcast initiative, the Blue Planet podcast, emphasizing the need to address environmental concerns. He explained that when launching the podcast in October 2020 his aim was to reach as many people as possible, especially the youth, with discussions on sustainability and solutions to environmental issues.

János Áder, Chairman of the Blue Planet Climate Protection Foundation and his guest discussed the possibilities and challenges of transitioning to a circular economy for the sake of sustainability.

Áder pointed out that Hungary’s gas consumption decreased by one billion cubic metres, or ten percent, in the past year, and the share of fossil energy in the ‘energy mix’ decreased by one thousand one hundred megawatts.

Áder noted that in Europe alone, 10 to 12 million cars are produced annually, and from 2035 onwards, only electric cars will roll off the assembly lines. This means that in Europe, 10 to 12 million batteries will be needed annually for car production.

Professor András Gelencsér reminded that fossil fuel emissions have continuously increased since the Paris climate accord, except during the COVID period. Regarding the utilization of solar and wind energy, dependent on environmental conditions, Gelencsér stated that the world cannot function without stable electricity production, which requires the use of fossil raw materials or nuclear energy.

Following the proceedings of COP 28 online from Budapest, former Hungarian President János Áder stated that the goals previously articulated by the committee were accurate. Recognizing that 80 per cent of the effects of climate change are felt through water, it was appropriate to highlight the need for the integration of climate, meteorological, and water databases and the establishment of a global hydrological information system.

In his presentation titled ‘Digitalization in Service of Sustainable Development,’ Áder pointed out that the National Digitalization Strategy set the goal for the widespread adoption of technologies and the expansion of capabilities by the government. According to the strategy, by 2030, 95 per cent of households will be covered by a gigabit-capable network.

According to Áder, a viable solution in preventing a global climate disaster can only be reached through an agreement involving the G20 nations, wherein the preferred and sanctioned activities are outlined. He stressed the need for a well-monitored system that prioritizes long-term sustainability over competitive advantage.