Caribbean Nations Urge Climate Action and Funding at COP29 in Baku
During COP29 in Baku, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is advocating for increased climate funding and action for small island developing states (SIDS) which face significant threats from climate change. Emphasizing tourism’s critical role in the Caribbean economy, the CTO highlights the urgent need to address rising sea levels and severe weather impact on livelihoods. The organization seeks to promote sustainable practices and policies to safeguard the region’s tourism-dependent economy.
At the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is advocating for urgent climate funding and action. The CTO aims to address the severe climate issues confronting small island developing states (SIDS), with a particular emphasis on the tourism sector, which is essential to the Caribbean economy. With 44.5 million residents impacted by climate risks such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events, the CTO emphasizes the need for a collective response to protect livelihoods, infrastructure, and natural resources vital to the region. Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General & CEO of the CTO, articulated the importance of tourism to Caribbean life and the urgent challenges posed by climate change: “Tourism is the heartbeat of the Caribbean. Yet, we must confront the stark reality that our islands contribute the least but are among the most vulnerable to climate change. The effects of rising sea levels, beach erosion, and stronger and unpredictable hurricanes impact not only our economies but also the very essence of Caribbean life.” The CTO’s participation at COP29 serves as a crucial mechanism to promote climate-resilient tourism and to advocate for policies and funding that respond to the region’s unique climate challenges. Their alignment with the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism seeks to integrate tourism considerations into global climate initiatives. A collaborative statement from various tourism ministers will stress the necessity for enhanced climate action, financial support for resilience initiatives, and policies that protect tourism-dependent economies. Additionally, the CTO emphasizes sustainable tourism, the implementation of renewable energy solutions, and the development of climate-resilient infrastructure as pathways to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Through these initiatives, the CTO underscores that addressing the Caribbean’s climate vulnerabilities is imperative not only for the region but for global sustainable development.
The Caribbean region, consisting of small island developing states, faces significant threats from climate change, which pose risks to their primary economic sector—tourism. Rising sea levels, increasingly severe hurricanes, and environmental degradation are critical challenges that endanger the livelihoods of millions residing in these islands. The CTO serves as a representative body that aims to amplify the voices and concerns of this region in international climate discussions, advocating for necessary funding and sustainable practices to combat the effects of climate change.
In conclusion, the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s presence at COP29 is a vital advocacy step to ensure that the specific climate challenges faced by small island developing states are addressed on the global stage. By engaging international leaders and promoting sustainable tourism practices, the CTO is not only fighting for immediate financial support but also for long-term solutions that prioritize climate resilience in the Caribbean.
Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com
