Latin American Faith Leaders Rally for Climate Action Ahead of COP30

Latin American and Caribbean faith leaders have presented a document entitled, “A Call to Action towards COP30” to Brazil’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Marina Silva. This call reflects concerns regarding climate emergency consequences, urging immediate governmental action and fulfillment of climate finance promises ahead of the COP30 conference.

A recent document titled, “A Call to Action towards COP30,” was presented to Marina Silva, the Brazilian Minister of Environment and Climate Change. It was delivered on the final day of a meeting attended by faith leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean. This document addresses the dire reality of the climate emergency, highlighting the severe and irreversible impacts of climate change as Brazil prepares to host COP30 in November 2025.

The call emphasizes the destruction of sacred territories, particularly the Amazon and other ecosystems, which are being ravaged by industrial activities such as large-scale agriculture, mining, and fossil fuel extraction. These actions, often justified in the guise of progress, are driven by a relentless pursuit of capital accumulation.

The statement critiques the persecution of environmental and human rights defenders who strive to protect these vulnerable lands. Moreover, it warns against the traps of previous COP meetings, urging that COP30 should avoid the stagnation surrounding fossil fuel phase-outs and the cyclic pattern of last-minute deals and unmet climate finance commitments.

The faith leaders urge a vigorous response from governments and the global community to the climate crisis, including the fulfillment of existing climate finance pledges, swift implementation of the Loss and Damage Fund, and proactive support for communities adapting to climate impacts. They stress that the commitments made at COP29 did not meet the financial needs of developing nations.

The document further argues that ongoing inaction in phasing out fossil fuels jeopardizes both our global environment and the survival of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. It advocates for a shift towards 100% renewable energy at COP30, along with the gradual elimination of fossil fuel subsidies in favor of sustainable development initiatives. The communities in the region are exhibiting resilience and innovation in their adaptation efforts amidst severe and frequent climate challenges.

In summary, the “A Call to Action towards COP30” underscores the urgent need for proactive and committed action to address the ongoing climate crisis. It highlights the detrimental impacts of industry on sacred lands and the importance of environmental protection. The pleas from Latin American and Caribbean faith leaders serve as a clarion call for governments to fulfill their climate obligations and prioritize the voices of those most affected by climate change, as the world prepares for COP30 in Brazil.

Original Source: www.oikoumene.org