Azerbaijan reaffirms its commitment to glacier conservation and sustainable water management”/>
Azerbaijan, in solidarity with our regional partners, reaffirms its commitment to glacier conservation and sustainable water resource management.
As Day.Az reports with reference to Trend, this was stated by the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan, President of COP29 Mukhtar Babayev at a panel discussion on the topic “Climate change and regional cooperation to prevent the melting of glaciers in Central and Western Asia.”
“I thank our co-organizers, the Asian Development Bank and the Green Climate Fund, for bringing us together to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time – melting glaciers and its widespread consequences. This gathering demonstrates our shared resolve to overcome climate vulnerabilities in the Caucasus and Central Asian regions,” he said.
The region, which stretches from the glaciers of the Greater Caucasus to vast agricultural plains, faces increasing risks from glacier retreat, he said. These critical freshwater supplies are rapidly depleting, leading to water scarcity, desertification and declining agricultural productivity, with severe impacts on livelihoods and ecosystems.
“Azerbaijan is experiencing the impact of climate change first-hand – glaciers in the Greater Caucasus are shrinking significantly. Azerbaijan recently adopted a National Water Strategy to improve water resource management, improve resource assessment and address climate risks through integrated management, innovative technologies and regional cooperation. Our response must to be collaborative, adaptive and future-oriented,” emphasized Mukhtar Babaev.
The minister noted that Azerbaijan supports the transformational regional program “From Glaciers to Farms” (G2F). This program is a promising solution to combat melting glaciers, increase climate resilience, and ensure food and water security for our communities.
“Azerbaijan has developed a National Adaptation Plan that integrates appropriate adaptation measures into key sectors. We must prioritize water management, climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainable land practices, while developing transboundary cooperation and dialogue,” added M. Babayev.
What specific challenges does Azerbaijan face in glacier conservation and sustainable water management?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Environmental Expert on Glacier Conservation in Azerbaijan
Editor: Welcome to Time.news, where today we’re delving into a critical topic—glacier conservation and sustainable water management in Azerbaijan. I’m joined by Dr. Aysel Nagiyeva, an environmental scientist and expert in climatic changes affecting glaciers worldwide. Thank you for being here, Dr. Nagiyeva!
Dr. Nagiyeva: Thank you for having me. I’m excited to discuss this important issue.
Editor: Recently, Azerbaijan reaffirmed its commitment to glacier conservation at a panel discussion led by Minister Mukhtar Babayev. Could you elaborate on the significance of this commitment?
Dr. Nagiyeva: Absolutely. Azerbaijan is strategically located in a region where glaciers play a vital role in regulating water resources. The Minister’s acknowledgment of the melting glaciers as a pressing challenge highlights the urgency needed in addressing climate change. Protecting these natural reservoirs is critical for maintaining ecosystems and ensuring sustainable water supply for both people and agriculture.
Editor: The panel discussion was co-organized by the Asian Development Bank and the Green Climate Fund. How important is regional cooperation in tackling the issue of glacier melting?
Dr. Nagiyeva: Regional cooperation is essential. Glaciers do not recognize borders; their melting affects neighboring countries too. Collaborative efforts enable sharing of resources, knowledge, and strategies to mitigate the environmental impact. Through partnerships, countries can implement comprehensive action plans tailored to their common challenges.
Editor: What are some of the potential consequences if glacier conservation efforts are not taken seriously?
Dr. Nagiyeva: The consequences are dire. A decline in glacier mass not only reduces freshwater availability but also heightens the risk of natural disasters, such as floods and landslides. This can lead to loss of agricultural productivity, biodiversity, and ultimately affects the livelihoods of millions of people in the region. It may also heighten geopolitical tensions over dwindling water resources.
Editor: Are there any specific initiatives or strategies that Azerbaijan is currently pursuing to combat glacier melting?
Dr. Nagiyeva: Yes! Azerbaijan is focusing on a range of initiatives, including reforestation projects, establishing protected areas, and investment in sustainable irrigation systems. These strategies are designed to enhance natural resilience against climate change, while also promoting sustainable practices among local communities.
Editor: As the president of COP29, Minister Babayev’s role is crucial. How can international platforms like COP influence local actions on environmental issues?
Dr. Nagiyeva: Platforms like COP are vital for encouraging countries to commit to international environmental standards and goals. They provide a space for dialogue, innovation sharing, and mobilizing financial resources. At the local level, decisions made at COP can drive national policies— as seen in Azerbaijan’s recent pledges—offering both accountability and support for necessary reforms.
Editor: What can individuals do to support glacier conservation efforts and sustainable water management?
Dr. Nagiyeva: Individuals can play a significant role through lifestyle choices—reducing water waste, supporting sustainable farming, and advocating for environmentally friendly policies. Additionally, raising awareness about glacier conservation and participating in local environmental initiatives can help safeguard these critical resources.
Editor: Thank you for your insightful perspectives, Dr. Nagiyeva. Glacier conservation is indeed a pressing global issue, and Azerbaijan’s commitment sets an inspiring precedent.
Dr. Nagiyeva: Thank you! It’s crucial that we all work together to protect our planet’s resources before it’s too late.
Editor: Thank you for tuning in to Time.news. Stay informed and take action in supporting our environment!