Bhubaneswar, Jul 10 (PTI) — Recently, diplomats from eight different countries gathered to discuss the growing impacts of climate change. They emphasized the urgent need for global action to protect our planet.
Spain’s ambassador, Juan Antonio March Pujol, highlighted that climate change is not a distant threat; it’s a pressing issue we face today. Other attendees included ambassadors from Uruguay, Peru, Ecuador, Guatemala, Italy, Seychelles, and a diplomat from Guyana.
Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the Director General of the India Meteorological Department, explained that greenhouse gas emissions from human activities are driving this crisis. He noted, “Extreme weather events are clear evidence of this issue.” Deforestation is compounding the problem, shrinking our natural carbon sinks like forests and wetlands. He pointed out that climate change is also hurting the economy, leading to a 6 to 10 percent drop in agricultural yields due to rising temperatures, affecting industries like fishing.
To combat these issues, Mohapatra stressed the importance of establishing early warning systems for areas vulnerable to extreme weather. He also called for sustainable development practices at local levels.
Seychelles High Commissioner Lalatiana Accouche shared the struggles her country faces due to rising sea levels and coastal erosion. She mentioned that while Seychelles contributes little to global warming, it suffers significantly from its consequences. This sentiment was echoed by Guyana’s Kayshav Tewari, who noted that those least responsible for climate change often bear the brunt of its effects. Guyana has taken steps to protect its forests, which cover 85 percent of its land and act as vital carbon sinks.
Ambassador Pujol noted that since 1900, sea levels have risen more than 20 cm due to human activity. He expressed Spain’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
Italy’s Ambassador Antonio Bartoli reflected on recent catastrophic floods in Texas, pointing out that despite technological advancements, we still struggle to control nature. Similarly, Peru’s ambassador Javier Paulinich stated that 71 percent of his country’s glaciers, a key water source, are in decline. “It’s not just ice that’s melting; it’s our future,” he warned.
As climate change continues to evolve, experts agree we must act swiftly. A recent study by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) found that if current trends continue, we could face a rise in global temperatures that may push many regions beyond their capacity to adapt.
The need for strong international cooperation is crucial. Countries like Spain and Italy are setting examples by taking significant steps toward sustainability. The discussions at this conclave highlight a growing acknowledgment among nations that tackling climate change is a shared responsibility.
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