We are in the middle of the second week of COP26 negotiations. The conference, which was called a “PR event” and “the most exclusionary COP ever” by the young activist Greta Thunberg, did not bring much hope for those in the throes of the climate emergency.
We have seen some progress, though.
Last Wednesday, the decision was made to end coal investment, as well as international development financing for most oil and gas projects. There were new commitments from the UK, Spain, Japan, Australia, Norway, Ireland and Luxembourg, in addition to plans to deliver $100 billion annually to developing countries to facilitate climate adaptation measure
There were also positive outcomes on accelerating the global transition to clean energy, such as some countries pledging to cut coal power, and over 100 countries promised to cut methane emissions.
On Youth and Public Empowerment Day of COP26 (Friday), tens and thousands of youth activists marched in protest. Meanwhile, delegates emphasised the necessity of climate education as part of the educational curriculum.
On Saturday, the second day focusing on building Nature’s resilience in the fight against climate change, delegates discussed how multiple stakeholders, including Indigenous Peoples, local communities and farmers are driving the transition towards more sustainable management of our land and ocean by protecting and restoring nature and reforming the food and farming system.
One of the most contentious topics being discussed is the issue known as “loss and damage.” This topic is of interest to Small Island Developing States, which are already suffering climate change and cannot repair or adapt to prevent further disasters without outside financial help.
Yesterday, the focus was on Gender. According to the United Nations, the majority of people displaced by climate change are women. Given that small island developing states are among the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, the women living in those countries are further affected
Fight disinformation. Get a daily recap of the facts that matter for islanders and island friends around COP26.
TODAY – LIVE WEBINAR
Time: 10:00am EST, 15:00pm BST
The Caribbean is home to many sustainability projects and opportunities capable of making the region the world’s first climate-smart area! The aim of a climate-smart zone is to reduce climate vulnerability and build economic security for its citizens. It is characterized by:
1. Reduced vulnerability to a range of climate-related hazards through building resilient infrastructure.
2. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and other pollutants.
3. Healthy ecosystems on the sea to support the Blue Economy.
4. Healthy ecosystems on land for food security.
5. Enhanced energy security via promotion of renewable energy
6. Incorporation of one or more of the SDGs in all projects sponsored by Governments.
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- Paris Agreement extended to include Isle of Man after UK talks
Thank you for reading! See you next week!