The head of UNFCCC called on Tuesday for funding to “flow in now” as delegates prepare to travel to the Brazilian city of Belém next month for what is seen as a crucial summit to turn pledges into action.
There is little doubt about whether or not countries should prepare for a changing and more unpredictable climate: extreme weather events such as devastating wildfires, catastrophic droughts and apocalyptic floods are making life increasingly difficult in all parts of the world (or even, as people in Pacific island states are sink). findimpossible).
There are many examples of effective measures countries can take to adapt to this new normal, from high sea walls and cyclone warning systems to floating homes and planting drought-resistant crops.
However, all of this costs money. Lots of money. Estimates of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) estimates this figure at between $160 billion and $340 billion – but only a tiny fraction of this amount actually goes to developing countries.
Climate-related disasters, such as floods, as in Madagascar, can cause a range of health problems.
Livelihoods destroyed
On Tuesday, the UN Climate Change released a new report detailing the progress countries have made in their National Climate Adaptation Plans (NAPs). This confirms that the persistent funding gap risks derailing the plans many are trying to implement.
Speaking At the launch in the Brazilian capital, Brasilia, Simon Stiell recalled that the climate crisis is destroying lives and livelihoods in all regions of the world, particularly in the most vulnerable countries, and that “adaptation is not optional; it is absolutely essential.”
The UN climate chief said adaptation would not only protect lives but also help empower communities and countries to thrive.
National adaptation plans, he said, are “the key to unlocking the epic transformative power of climate resilience investing.”
Children in Timor-Leste Residents of the village of Orlalan, Timor-Leste, take part in a climate disaster exercise.
Operational plans
Aside from the funding challenge, progress is being made: 67 developing countries have submitted plans – including 23 least developed countries and 14 small island developing states – with an approach aimed at involving more women, youth, indigenous peoples, local communities and the private sector.
These efforts explain in detail what the priorities and needs are – and should, Mr. Stiell suggested, make it easier for investors and financial institutions to finance climate adaptation.
The report comes 19 days before the UN COP30 climate conference opens in the Amazon city of Belém, where adaptation and the financing gap will be a central issue for negotiators, aiming to mobilize $1.3 trillion in climate finance.
Looking ahead to the UN summit, Mr Stiell said it was a “key test of global solidarity” which must “connecting climate action to real lives around the worldto spread the vast benefits.
Originally published at Almouwatin.com
