On Wednesday, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) announced that it will advocate for climate change adaptation as a development strategy at COP-31, alongside regional cooperation to strengthen environmental action.
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The United Nations body, based in Chile, will participate in the 31st Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, which is being held in Türkiye.
During the climate summit, ECLAC will place special emphasis on the implementation of the Escazú Agreement and the protection of environmental defenders. This regional treaty seeks to guarantee access to environmental information, public participation, and justice in environmental matters, while also promoting cooperation among the states of Latin America and the Caribbean.
In a statement, the organization emphasized that adapting to climate change is not merely about responding to emergencies; rather, it constitutes a strategic economic decision to safeguard development gains. According to the organization, such measures help reduce vulnerabilities and open new avenues for investment, innovation, and employment.
“Adapting to climate change means protecting productivity, anticipating risks to public finances, and creating better conditions for investment and innovation,” ECLAC noted. The organization added that advancing a circular economy and strengthening regional cooperation are essential for achieving more resilient and inclusive development.
According to the latest ECLAC report, if the current trajectory of climate policies continues, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Latin America and the Caribbean could decline by 7 percent by 2050.
Through these actions, ECLAC reaffirms its commitment to supporting countries in the region as they transform their climate efforts into opportunities that protect people, strengthen economies, and expand development.
Author: HGV
Source: @antonioguterres
Source: Telesur
