Students and educators join forces under the guidance of eco-delegate Demir Çolak to advocate for a fair clean energy transition.
Türkiye’s capital, Ankara, became the hub for this year’s International Clean Energy Day on 26 January, with a panel discussion themed ‘An Urgent Call: A Fair and Inclusive Transition to Clean Energy’. The event gathered students and educators from around the world to address critical issues surrounding renewable energy and sustainability.
The panel was moderated by Demir Çolak, a high school student at Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle in Ankara and an eco-delegate. In his opening address, Demir emphasised the transformative power of education in achieving sustainable development. “Education is the key to driving a fair and inclusive transition to clean energy. As young people, we must fight with all our strength to ensure a sustainable future,” he said.
Held at the Temelli Cultural Centre, the event also commemorated the first anniversary of International Clean Energy Day, which was established by the United Nations to coincide with the foundation date of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Key discussions centred on accelerating the global shift towards renewable energy, improving efficiency, and addressing energy poverty.
Energy poverty remains a major hurdle
Panellists explored the grim reality of energy access disparities, highlighting that 685 million people worldwide still lack access to electricity, with over 80% of these individuals living in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Demir drew attention to alarming forecasts, revealing that by 2030, two billion people are expected to rely on polluting fuels for basic needs such as cooking. “Countries must prioritise affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy systems. Investments in renewable energy and clean technology are not just necessary but urgent,” he warned.
Experts advocate for global collaboration
The panel featured contributions from energy experts and UNESCO representatives, who stressed the importance of international partnerships. Çelebi Kalkan, a member of UNESCO’s Greening Education Partnership in Türkiye, said, “Global cooperation is essential for supporting energy transitions and overcoming barriers to sustainable development.”
Clean energy consultant Pınar Ünsal added her perspective on addressing energy inequities. “Reducing emissions is critical, but clean energy solutions must also improve access to reliable energy sources for underprivileged communities. Without addressing these disparities, we risk leaving the most vulnerable behind,” she noted.
Electrical Engineer and Renewable Energy Consultant Serhat Şahin issued a stark warning about the slow pace of progress. “In 2022 alone, the number of people without electricity increased by 10 million. Fossil fuels, as major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, threaten the very future of our planet. It is imperative to accelerate the adoption of wind energy and other clean technologies,” he urged.
Türkiye’s response to public demand for action
The event also highlighted Türkiye’s growing role in tackling climate change. According to a World Economic Forum survey, 77% of Türkiye’s population is concerned about climate change, placing the nation among the top four globally for environmental concern. Panellists called for bold and equitable policies to address these concerns.
This year’s International Clean Energy Day concluded with a call to action. Bringing together voices from around the globe, the panel reinforced the urgency of a clean energy transition. Closing the session, moderator Demir Çolak reminded attendees of their shared responsibility: “The fight for clean energy is not just a necessity; it is our responsibility as stewards of the future.”
