Andrea Meza Murillo, Costa Rica’s Minister of Environment and Energy, has highlighted the need for international cooperation in addressing climate change as the country prepares to host the virtual 2021 World Hydropower Congress.

Minister Meza gave the comments in an interview ahead of the event, which takes place online on 7–24 September. You can watch the interview in full here:
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“Hydropower has an important role in the energy transition,” said Minister Meza. “It enables variable renewables to be integrated into energy systems, and provides value.

“But sustainability must be at the core of hydropower, and we must all commit to principles that will guide all stages of its development.”

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Sustainability at the forefront

‍Minister Meza called for urgent action and holistic solutions to climate change, but stressed the importance of sustainable practices in building renewable energy systems for the future.

“Every country should create its own pathway to low-carbon economic growth, but those particular pathways should follow best practices regarding sustainability,” she said.

“The employment of renewables must follow principles that will protect people, the environment and our planet.”

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‍Decision-makers to gather for 2021 World Hydropower Congress

The Government of Costa Rica is hosting the 2021 World Hydropower Congress together with the International Hydropower Association and the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE).

“We will be honoured to welcome you, albeit virtually, to an event that is a worldwide reference in hydropower and that brings together experts, decision-makers and other stakeholders from all around the world,” said Minister Meza.

The Congress will take place fully online, with a diverse programme of sessions spread throughout September. You can register now for free.

“For Costa Rica, September will be a very special month,” Minister Meza continued. “We will be celebrating 200 years of independence, so it becomes a relevant fact that during our bicentennial celebration, the World Hydropower Congress will take place and the San José Declaration will be launched.”

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‍San José Declaration to make bold commitments

‍The San José Declaration on Sustainable Hydropower, named in recognition of Costa Rica’s capital city, is expected to be a landmark outcome of the Congress.

The document will outline an ambitious set of principles, recommendations and commitments to guide new development and shape the sector’s contribution to the energy transition.

“It seeks to promote sustainable hydropower development, and it is a call for best practices to maximise the positive impacts among governments, the private sector and stakeholders,” explained Minister Meza.

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