Leading the way in sustainable energy solutions
A technical team from the Global Climate Fund recently visited Pacific Adventist University to discuss the university’s biofuel project. (Credit: Bruno Kokinai)
Pacific Adventist University (PAU) is being recognised as a national leader in the fight against climate change, thanks to its groundbreaking biofuel initiative.
The Science and Technology Secretariat has highlighted PAU’s efforts, placing the university at the forefront of Papua New Guinea’s drive towards sustainable energy solutions.
This project holds significant value especially since the Global Climate Fund (GCF) is allocating a substantial USD$45 billion to help Pacific Island countries fight climate change. PAU is the first university in Papua New Guinea to lead the way on a project like this.
The commitment to PAU’s project was highlighted by a recent visit to the university from a technical team representing the GCF. The delegation, accompanied by officials from the Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA) and the Science and Technology Secretariat, conducted a comprehensive survey of the groundwork already established for the university’s biofuel project.
The visit included an in-depth tour of PAU’s existing biodiesel facilities, a detailed review of their current operational capacity and productive discussions concerning the commercialisation of biodiesel produced from recycled cooking oils.
This engagement marks an important step forward in PAU’s efforts to secure vital funding and highlights the university’s significant contribution to the development of sustainable energy solutions within the region.
Looking ahead, the GCF Board is scheduled to visit PAU later this year. The university views this as a pivotal opportunity to showcase the progress of its biofuel project, led by the School of Science and Technology. PAU aims to secure further support for this initiative, which holds immense promise for both environmental innovation and economic growth for Papua New Guinea.
— Reginah Harihi
