Zimbabwe’s Environment Secretary Reveals Plan at COP30
During an event hosted by the World Federation for Animals on November 14 at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, Ambassador Tadeous T Chifamba shared an exciting announcement. On behalf of Zimbabwe’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Evelyn Ndlovu, he revealed a new initiative: the Global Wildlife for Climate Action Declaration. This declaration is set to be launched at COP31 next year, aiming to unite global efforts for wildlife conservation to combat climate change.
This initiative follows discussions at the first African Union Biodiversity summit in Botswana, where leaders endorsed the “African Leaders Gaborone Declaration on Biodiversity.” They emphasized the urgent need to protect wildlife, recognizing it as vital for climate stability. This alignment with the Paris Agreement highlights the important role wildlife plays in managing climate challenges.
Wildlife isn’t just beautiful; it’s essential for a healthier planet. Animals like elephants and antelopes help maintain forests and grasslands, which are crucial for carbon storage. Even small creatures, like termites, play crucial roles in nutrient cycling. However, extensive threats like habitat loss and poaching endanger these species and, consequently, our ecosystems. A recent analysis shows a concerning decline in the biodiversity that supports vital ecosystem functions across Africa.
At the event, Ambassador Chifamba emphasized the need for global solidarity. “Healthy wildlife populations are crucial for climate stability,” he said. “This Declaration is a significant stride toward recognizing wildlife as allies in our climate strategy.”
Ambassador Dibba from The Gambia added: “In The Gambia, rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are threatening our wildlife and the ecosystems they rely on. The socio-economic implications are profound. Wildlife tourism is key to our economy, and loss of biodiversity threatens our identity and livelihoods.”
Dr. James Yeates, CEO of the World Federation for Animals, noted that this announcement is a pivotal win for wildlife. “As leaders discuss climate strategies at COP30, the role of wild animals in supporting ecosystems cannot be ignored. Their natural behaviors contribute significantly to carbon storage,” he pointed out.
The forthcoming Wildlife for Climate Declaration builds on prior commitments made at the 20th African Ministerial Conference on the Environment. It aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which underscores the necessity of valuing and protecting Africa’s unique wildlife and ecosystems for sustainable development and climate resilience.
In a world facing rapid ecological change, this initiative could serve as a turning point, drawing attention to the urgent need for collective action. Protecting wildlife isn’t simply a noble goal; it’s a crucial part of our fight against climate change and a step towards a more sustainable future for all.
