2024-07-27 15:33:07
One of our most ambitious goals is to become a net-zero city by 2030. Achieving this goal requires collaboration, innovation and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. I can proudly say that Sofia is already taking significant steps in this direction, Mayor Vasil Terziev assured during the opening of the 61st session of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which will take place in Sofia from July 27 to 2 August.
More than 500 delegates from 150 countries will work on climate change issues in our capital.
“It is a great honor and privilege to welcome you to Sofia. Hosting this summit is an opportunity to share our understanding that, among other factors, the process of urbanization is also a key driver of environmental change. In as a result, we are witnessing negative consequences that directly affect the way and quality of life in urban communities,” the mayor addressed the delegates in the hall.
In his words, adaptation to climate change is a complex process of preparation and active adaptation to constantly changing climatic conditions.
“The challenges cover a wide range of issues, especially when it comes to skillfully balancing the interests of different stakeholders. Our approaches must be careful and take into account the fact that we are all connected and everything matters – the biosphere, urban elements and our social and economic needs,” added Terziev and was adamant that to deal with this challenge, we need science, and his faith in science was enormous.
“Sofia is proud to be part of this global community, working together to create a world where economic growth and environmental protection go hand in hand,” Terziev also said.
Starting with Sofia, our vision is clear: to turn our capital into a sustainable, green and resilient city that sets an example for others in Bulgaria and the region. The scientific and technological achievements of Bulgaria are well-known and proof of this is the establishment two years ago of INSAIT – the Institute for Computer Sciences, Artificial Intelligence and Technologies in Sofia, added the mayor.
The IPCC is the scientific panel responsible for systematizing, analyzing and disseminating scientific information related to the state of the planet’s climate and the necessary measures to adapt to the coming climate changes. The panel’s regular reports serve as a scientific basis for countries to make decisions about planning and implementing climate policies.