Rescue Mission International (ReMI), an environmental conservation organisation in Ghana, has kicked against the proposed Members of Parliament (MPs) Pension Fund Scheme to be funded by Carbon Credit Revenues.
In a petition to the Speaker of parliament, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, and copied to the Ghana News Agency, the organisation expressed concern over the recent statement made by the Majority Leader, Mr Mahama Ayariga.
The statement, made on the floor of Parliament on January 29, 2025, was a proposal of the establishment of the MPs’ Pension Fund Scheme.
“As an organisation committed to environmental sustainability, we believe that the proposed use of carbon credit revenues for an MPs Pension Fund Scheme is inconsistent with the principles of environmental stewardship and equitable resource allocation,” it said.
The statement said Carbon credits were a critical tool in the global fight against climate change, hence their revenues should be directed towards environmental conservation, climate adaptation and mitigation projects to benefit the broader population, particularly vulnerable communities.
“Globally, MPs’ pension schemes are typically funded through contributory pension models, investments, or endowment funds, rather than relying on revenues earmarked for specific public or environmental purposes…”
“… And these models ensure transparency, accountability, and sustainability without diverting funds meant for critical public or environmental initiatives”.
The statement said the proposal appeared to have been made without adequate consultation with stakeholders, including environmental organisations, civil society, and the public.
Carbon credit revenues are a national resource, and their allocation should be transparent, inclusive and aligned with national development priorities, it said.
The organisation acknowledged that Ghana had made significant commitments under international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Hence, “misusing” carbon credit revenues for non-environmental purposes could damage Ghana’s credibility on the global stage and hinder access to future climate financing, it said.
“Carbon credit revenues are generated from projects that often involved the participation and sacrifices of local communities, particularly in rural areas, adding that such communities should be the primary beneficiaries of such revenues, not MPs who already receive salaries and allowances funded by taxpayers,” the statement said.
It also urged parliament to explore alternative funding sources as well as engage in a broader stakeholder engagements, including environmental organisations, civil society, and the public, to ensure transparency and accountability in decisions regarding the use of carbon credit revenues.
“We urge Parliament to prioritise the long-term interests of the nation and its citizens by ensuring that carbon credit revenues are used for their intended purposes while safeguarding Ghana’s environment and supporting climate action.” it said.