Anthropogenic impacts, industrialization and rapid economic development have become a serious threat to many countries, causing an increase in global temperatures and natural disasters.
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 Babaev during a speech at the Global Baku Summit of Religious Leaders.
He noted that we are seeing these threats become catastrophic for communities living in regions sensitive to climate change.
“For them, climate change is no longer a theoretical threat, but has become a reality that they face every day. Changing rainfall frequency and rising temperatures in the Congo Basin are causing serious damage to forests and rare ecosystems. Floods in Pakistan, which inundated a third of the country, threaten destruction communities in their small island developing states and natural disasters in different parts of the world are tangible evidence of this reality.
The experiences of these countries require us to take urgent and inclusive approaches and place the challenges they face at the center of our efforts.
The COP29 Agenda for Action aims to make resources more accessible to developing countries. Under Azerbaijan’s chairmanship of COP29, 14 major initiatives were put forward. Our goal is to offer new approaches and innovative solutions not only nationally, but also globally. With these initiatives, Azerbaijan will continue its leadership in supporting the transition to a green economy at the global level.
The Climate Finance Action Fund, created at the initiative of Azerbaijan, will encourage public and private sector investment in climate adaptation, mitigation and research. This Fund provides financing opportunities for rapid response to the consequences of natural disasters in developing countries,” added M. Babayev.
It should be noted that in Baku, within the framework of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the State Committee for Work with Religious Entities, the Muslim Council of Elders, the Caucasus Muslim Office (CMO) and the UN Program for Environment holds the Global Summit of Religious Leaders in Baku.
The global forum provides for the participation of about 30 leaders of secular and traditional religions, heads of influential religious centers – patriarchs, officials of the Vatican and Al-Azhar, world-famous religious and public figures representing various continents, denominations, government, scientific and religious figures representing a total of 55 countries and 30 international organizations, as well as media representatives.
Interview: Climate Crisis Conversations
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome, everyone, to our special segment on climate change and global action. Today, we are honored to have with us Mukhtar Babaev, the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan and the President of COP29. Thank you for joining us, Mr. Babaev.
Mukhtar Babaev: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such a critical issue.
Interviewer: You recently spoke at the Global Baku Summit of Religious Leaders, emphasizing the urgent impact of climate change on vulnerable communities. Can you elaborate on what you meant by this being a ‘reality’ for many people?
Mukhtar Babaev: Absolutely. Climate change is no longer just a future threat; it is manifesting in real and devastating ways for many communities. For instance, in regions like the Congo Basin, increased temperatures and altered rainfall patterns threaten not only forests but also unique ecosystems. People in these areas are experiencing significant changes in their environment that directly affect their livelihoods.
Interviewer: That’s a sobering thought. You highlighted the catastrophic impacts of climate change, referencing events such as the catastrophic floods in Pakistan. What does this say about the global nature of climate issues?
Mukhtar Babaev: It illustrates that climate change knows no borders. The floods in Pakistan, which displaced millions and submerged a third of the country, are just one example. We have to recognize that these challenges require a collective response. Communities in small island states and elsewhere are facing an existential threat. We need a global framework that prioritizes inclusive action and addresses different vulnerabilities effectively.
Interviewer: You mentioned the COP29 Agenda for Action, which aims to make resources more accessible to developing countries. Can you share more details on this initiative?
Mukhtar Babaev: The COP29 Agenda focuses on equipping developing nations with the technology and resources necessary to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. This means not only financial support but also sharing knowledge and innovative practices. Our goal is to empower these nations so they can tackle the challenges head-on, ultimately building resilience against future disasters.
Interviewer: Empowering communities is essential. In your view, what role do religious leaders and organizations play in addressing climate change?
Mukhtar Babaev: Religious leaders are crucial. They wield significant influence in their communities and can advocate for environmental stewardship as a moral obligation. By raising awareness and fostering discussions about climate responsibility, they can unite people around this common cause. Their involvement can bridge gaps and inspire collective action across diverse sectors of society.
Interviewer: As we face increasing environmental threats, what message do you have for individuals who feel overwhelmed by the scale of the problem?
Mukhtar Babaev: My message is one of hope and action. While the challenge is indeed daunting, every small action contributes to a larger solution. Individuals can make a difference by advocating for sustainable practices, reducing waste, and supporting policies that protect our environment. It’s important to remember that we all have a role to play.
Interviewer: Thank you, Mr. Babaev, for your insights and commitment to this vital issue. We appreciate your time and hope for a successful COP29 that drives meaningful change.
Mukhtar Babaev: Thank you for having me. Together, we can work towards a sustainable future.