ISLAMABAD: As climate change increasingly threatens ecosystems around the globe, experts called for immediate action to address the vulnerabilities of mountainous regions and urged dedicated climate finance strategies that prioritize these vulnerable ecosystems.
The event, titled “Mountains and Climate Finance,” brought together experts, policymakers, environmental activists, and community leaders from around the world, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities faced by mountainous regions in the wake of climate change.
As the discussion unfolded, Munir Ahmed, Director of Devcom-Pakistan, articulated the stark reality confronting mountain communities. He emphasized that these regions are vital for supplying essential resources like water and biodiversity to millions living downstream.
Despite their importance, mountain ecosystems are often sidelined in global climate finance mechanisms. “We must advocate for climate policies that specifically address the needs of our mountain environments and the communities that rely on them,” Ahmed urged.
Sara Manuelli, the Advocacy and Communication Officer at the UNFAO Mountain Partnership, echoed this sentiment. She noted that the challenges faced by mountainous areas were only included in the agenda at COP28, underlining the need for sustainable mountain development investments. Manuelli highlighted that addressing underlying issues like poverty, isolation, and gender inequality requires adequate and long-term financial resources.
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The discussion also touched on innovative financing solutions, with experts proposing public-private partnerships and targeted loans for small-scale producers. Such measures could enhance economic opportunities and encourage sustainable practices in mountain regions. Ashiq Ahmed Khan, a scientific advisor, pointed out that Pakistan has not received its fair share of global climate finance, urging for priority funding focused on local needs and knowledge.
Dr. Ghulam Rasool highlighted the dangers posed by Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the Hindu Kush and Himalayan regions. He called for increased funding for data collection, community capacity building, and regional collaborations to effectively tackle these climate-induced threats.
The conference culminated in a series of key recommendations. Participants advocated for the establishment of a dedicated mountain fund within existing climate finance frameworks, akin to those for forests and oceans. This fund would ensure targeted investments in sustainable mountain initiatives.
Moreover, they urged governments to prioritize community representation in all stages of climate policy development, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mountain ecosystems.
The insights shared during this webinar not only underscored the urgency of the mountain conservation agenda but also fostered a collaborative spirit among nations, aiming to amplify their voices on the global climate stage.
