UAE (Dubai), December 18th: Shakti Bahadur Basnet, the Minister of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, expressed concern over the escalating global temperatures attributed to industrialized countries, noting significant losses for Nepal due to resultant climate change. Speaking at the international conference on climate in Dubai organized by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Minister Basnet underscored the disproportionate impact on countries with minimal carbon emissions like Nepal.
During the program titled 'Climate Change and Its Impact on Mountains, Women, and Communities at Risk,' Minister Basnet affirmed Nepal's commitment to mitigating climate change, emphasizing the need for developed nations to fulfill their obligations. Given Nepal's geographical complexity, he highlighted the heightened vulnerability of women, children, the disabled, and marginalized communities to climate change.
Minister Basnet emphasized, 'While we are steadfast in fulfilling our commitments, industrialized countries must adhere to their pledge to reduce carbon emissions.' He informed the audience about Nepal's initiatives in clean energy to reduce carbon emissions and underscored the government's efforts to build an inclusive society by focusing on at-risk populations.
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' and Climate Adviser Dr. Popular Gentle echoed concerns about the increased vulnerability of women to climate change, emphasizing the need to prioritize subsidies and assistance for the upliftment and training of communities at risk.
Prajita Karki, chairperson of the program, stressed the importance of placing mountains and women at the center of climate justice efforts. She stated, 'Climate justice can only be achieved by prioritizing women and vulnerable communities. The accelerated melting of snow in Nepal's mountains poses a climate disaster, with direct victims being women, children, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities. Collective responsibility is crucial for their justice.'
Dr. Radha Wagle, an expert in Women and Climate Adaptation, highlighted the heightened risk faced by women in rural and marginalized communities. She emphasized the need to not only address the risks women face due to climate change but also to promote opportunities for them through climate adaptation programs. Wagle stated, 'It is imperative to promote women in employment, skills, and business, accelerating climate adaptation programs.'
Claudia Godfrey Ruiz, Committee Chair of the Green Climate Fund/Adaptation Fund, advocated for establishing direct access to green climate finance and other funds. Ruiz emphasized, 'Bringing financial resources directly to local and more vulnerable communities is essential for establishing climate justice.' Only through such direct access, she argued, can climate justice be realized."
