Latin American and Caribbean Faith Leaders Issue Climate Action Call Ahead of COP30
Latin American and Caribbean faith leaders issued “A Call to Action towards COP30,” urging governments to respond urgently to the climate crisis ahead of the UN climate conference in 2025. The document critiques ongoing environmental destruction and calls for significant commitments to renewable energy and climate finance, stressing the need to protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems.
Latin American and Caribbean faith leaders have formally presented “A Call to Action towards COP30” to the Brazilian Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Marina Silva, during her visit marking the conclusion of their meeting. This document emphasizes the urgent reality of the climate crisis and highlights the irreversible effects of climate change. The 30th UN Climate Conference, COP30, is scheduled to take place in Brazil in November 2025.
The document articulates deep concern regarding the destruction of sacred territories, including the Amazon and other ecosystems, which are compromised by large-scale agriculture, mining, and fossil fuel extraction. These exploitative activities, often justified as “progress,” primarily contribute to the unchecked accumulation of wealth. The leaders note that individuals defending these lands, including environmental activists and human rights defenders, face increasing persecution.
Additionally, the call underscores the necessity for governments to urgently address the climate crisis. It urges action towards fulfilling climate finance commitments, implementing the Loss and Damage Fund, and promoting a fair transition from fossil fuel reliance. The document stresses the importance of prioritizing the perspectives of those most adversely affected by climate change.
The message further addresses that commitments made at COP29 were insufficient for developing nations to combat climate change effectively. Immediate operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund is deemed critical, allowing prioritization for impacted communities. Furthermore, the ongoing failure to eliminate fossil fuels threatens not only shared ecological systems but also the survival of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.
Faith leaders have called for significant commitments from COP30, advocating for a transition to 100% renewable energy and the gradual removal of fossil fuel subsidies, redirecting them towards sustainable development initiatives. They note that communities in Latin America and the Caribbean are facing severe and recurring climate challenges, showcasing their resilience and creativity in adaptation efforts.
Individuals are encouraged to read the complete text of “A Call to Action towards COP30” for additional insights and details regarding the pressing climate issues at hand.
The “Call to Action towards COP30” highlights serious concerns regarding climate change impacts in Latin America and the Caribbean, advocating for immediate government action to fulfill climate finance obligations. It emphasizes the need for fossil fuel phase-out, enhanced support for vulnerable communities, and the promotion of renewable energy. The document reflects a collective urgency for addressing the climate crisis effectively in preparation for COP30.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
