CYCLES-LIBERIA Urges Action on Climate Change Impacting Smallholder Farmers
CYCLES-LIBERIA urges immediate action to address climate change’s negative effects on smallholder farmers. The organization highlights the unpredictable weather patterns affecting agriculture and calls for greater youth involvement in climate policymaking. The Youth Post-COP29 Conference addressed the importance of global commitments to aid developing countries, including Liberia, in tackling climate issues and promoting renewable energy solutions.
CYCLES-LIBERIA, a prominent grassroots environmental organization in Liberia, has called for immediate action regarding the adverse effects of climate change on smallholder farmers in rural areas. The organization emphasizes the necessity of addressing these challenges to improve agricultural productivity and food security.
Beyan E. Harris, Executive Director of CYCLES-LIBERIA, highlighted the changing weather patterns affecting farmers, noting, “Farmers can no longer rely on traditional weather patterns. They prepare for the dry season but experience unexpected rains, and during the rainy season, they face droughts.” This unpredictability severely impacts food production across Liberia.
Mr. Harris remarked on the Youth Post-COP29 Conference, which prioritized waste management and climate change, underlining Liberia’s pivotal role in shaping global environmental policy. He stated, “Many people think waste disposal is just about throwing trash on the ground, but over time, it accumulates and creates serious hazards.” His remarks emphasized the vital need for mitigation efforts and adaptation strategies to cope with evolving climatic challenges.
The Conference showcased the necessity for increased youth engagement in climate policymaking. Mr. Harris noted that participation in international forums like COP is often limited for young Liberians, asserting, “Attending global climate conferences like COP is a privilege, not a right, and many young Liberians struggle to participate.” His focus remained on translating discussion into action in Liberia.
Mr. Abraham E. Tumbay, from UNDP, addressed the significance of Liberia’s commitment to the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Change. He elaborated on the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0; stressing the urgency for every country to contribute towards global climate stability. He stated, “Every commitment made so far is crucial, but we must go beyond pledges.”
Furthermore, Tumbay emphasized the need for financing climate initiatives, particularly for developing nations, asserting the importance of transitioning to renewable energy. He said, “Investments in solar farms and clean energy projects will help reduce emissions and secure a sustainable future.”
Both speakers advocated for increased government action and continual youth participation in climate discussions. The CYCLES-LIBERIA organized Youth Post COP29 Dialogue gathered over fifty young individuals from various demographics, enhancing awareness of COP29 outcomes and their implications for local initiatives.
The dialogue allowed participants to reflect on the lessons learned from COP29, as various grassroots organizations, including the Youth Initiative for Climate Change (YICC) and the Climate Activists Association of Liberia (CAAL), collaborated to foster a deeper understanding of climate commitments made at global assemblies. Moreover, funding pledges amounting to US$300 billion annually from the Global North to the Global South for climate initiatives were discussed, illustrating the international community’s commitment to mitigating the climate crisis.
In summary, CYCLES-LIBERIA emphasizes the urgent need for proactive measures to combat climate change impacts on smallholder farmers in Liberia. The Youth Post-COP29 Conference highlighted the critical role of youth participation in climate policy and the necessity for government action and financial support for climate initiatives. The ongoing challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns continue to threaten food security, thus demanding a collaborative approach to enhance resilience and sustainability in the face of climate change.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
