By 2030 both United States and Brazil could depend on renewable energy for 20 percent of their energy needs.
Leaders of both nations have committed to the clean energy target during the visit of Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff to the United States.
US President Barack Obama and Rousseff have pledged to increase electricity generation from sources other than hydropower as part of their commitment to fight climate change.
Brazil has also committed to reforest 12 million hectares by 2030 as part of a broader climate change plan, Reuters reports.
ALSO READ: Brazil raising investment fund to grow renewable energy
In addition to the reforestation and renewable energy goals, Brazil said it intends to “improve low-carbon agricultural and grazing land practices”, promote new, clean technology standards for industry and boost energy efficiency measures.
The leaders made the pledge in a joint statement at the White House.
ALSO READ: Obama to pledge 28% emission cut in global treaty for climate change by US
“The presidents are committed to reaching an ambitious agreement that reflects the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances,” Reuters cited from the statement.
Brazil’s broader plan, the statement adds, would be “fair and ambitious” and would represent “its highest possible effort beyond its current actions”.
According to White House senior advisor Brian Deese, the renewable energy target would require the United States to triple the share of renewables in its energy mix by 2030 and Brazil to double its share.
Reuters reports that Brazil is yet to formally submit to the United Nations its strategy to fight climate change. It has, however, flagged some goals in Tuesday’s joint statement, which assumes significance considering the upcoming climate change talks in Paris this December.
Ajith Kumar S