Accra, Sept. 9, GNA – The first global dialogue on the economic, social, and environmental effects of national climate response initiatives began today in Accra.
About 40 participants from different countries will discuss ways to effectively implement climate initiatives that would reduce emissions, enhance welfare and prosperity, and support communities.
The dialogue which is organised in conjunction with the 11th Meeting of Katowice Committee on Impacts (KCI), will focus on “evidence-based approaches and holistic strategies to maximize co-benefits and minimize negative impacts of implementing NDCs.”
In a speech read for her during the opening ceremony, Second Lady Hajia Samira Bawumia said the effects of climate change presented an existential threat and were worsening by the day.
“Our people continue to face the harsh realities of climate change in their daily lives, from the challenges of farming to simple tasks like fetching water. The future remains unknown, bleak, and uncertain.
“Today, our nation is experiencing delayed rains and the worst drought in the northern parts in decades. The government has allocated GH¢8 billion ($500 million) from the national emergency fund to finance an agriculture support scheme to alleviate the plight of farmers affected by dry weather and ensure food security,” she said.
Hajia Samira observed that, although women and children were among the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, their voices were frequently drowned out in larger discussions to find solutions.
She said that conscious efforts to prevent climate change could worsen social inequality, necessitating the need to adopt actions to maximize the positives while reducing the drawbacks.
“For instance, the global effort to transition away from fossil fuels can adversely impact the extractive industries that power the economies and the livelihoods that depend on them. The shift in energy policies toward a low-carbon future could lead to job losses in traditional energy sectors while creating new opportunities in renewable energy sectors,” she said.
Mr. Harry Vreuls, Chair of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), explained that the implementation of response measures transcended climate change and involved determining the future of our society, economies, and ecosystems.
He said the decisions and actions taken by countries had far-reaching and long-term consequences, particularly for the most vulnerable populations.
“It is vital that we consider not only the immediate benefits but also the long-term impacts, ensuring that our actions promote sustainability, equity, growth and resilience.
“By thoroughly evaluating these impacts, we can create solutions that are both effective and inclusive, leaving no one behind in our fight against climate change,” he said
GNA