Clean Tech Times

In 2024, the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil have experienced a record surge in wildfires. The fires increased tenfold compared to the same period last year. This information is according to Brazil’s National Institute of Space Research (INPE). Local residents, Jose Cleiton and Brandao Amilton, traverse the expansive Pantanal on horseback. They encounter towering walls of smoke rising into the sky. The dry season has not yet reached its peak. However, the wetlands are already so parched that wildfires are becoming increasingly common.

The Impact of Fires on Local Communities

Brandao Amilton, a local fishing guide, described the severe conditions, noting the difficulty in breathing and the adverse effects on newborn children. The intense heat, combined with the dry conditions and pervasive smoke, has significantly deteriorated the weather in the region. Amilton expressed concern about the escalating heat and dryness, which exacerbate the already challenging environment of the Pantanal.

Jose Cleiton, a farmer, highlighted the dire situation for livestock. He and Amilton guide cattle across the floodplain, hoping to improve their chances of survival. Cleiton expressed fear that the advancing fires could encircle the cattle and cause their deaths by burning. The fires pose a significant threat to both the local communities and the diverse wildlife that inhabit the Pantanal.

Significance of the Pantanal and concerns regarding the Fires

The Pantanal wetlands cover an area roughly ten times the size of the Florida Everglades. They are a vital habitat for numerous species, including jaguars, tapirs, caimans, and giant anteaters. The region’s usual seasonal flooding has been disrupted due to weak rains since late last year. This disruption has left large areas vulnerable to fires. The Pantanal is approaching the peak wildfire season, typically in September. Experts warn that this year’s fires are already worse than the record-breaking fires of 2020. In 2020, a third of the wetlands burned.

Record-Breaking Fires Season

According to satellite monitoring data from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, more than 3,400 square kilometers (1,315 square miles) of the Pantanal have burned between January 1 and June 9, marking the highest level of fires on record since data collection began in 2012. This unprecedented level of burning is alarming and highlights the severity of the current fire season.

Climate Change and El Niño’s Influence

The stark contrast between the record fires in the Pantanal and the record flooding in Rio Grande do Sul, three states to the south, can be attributed to the same underlying phenomenon—an unusually strong El Niño pattern exacerbated by climate change. Michael Coe, a climate scientist at the Woodwell Climate Research Center, explained that climate change has intensified the effects of El Niño, creating unprecedented conditions. Coe emphasized that the current situation represents a new and challenging realm of environmental conditions.

The Urgency of Addressing Climate Change

The ongoing fires in the Pantanal underscore the urgent need for comprehensive action to address climate change. The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as wildfires and floods, highlight the broader impacts of a warming planet. Effective mitigation and adaptation strategies are crucial to protect vulnerable ecosystems like the Pantanal and the communities that depend on them.

Conclusion

The record surge of fires in Brazil’s Pantanal wetlands in 2024 is a stark reminder of the profound impacts of climate change and the urgent need for global action. The dry conditions and intense heat have created a hazardous environment for both local communities and wildlife. The disruption of seasonal flooding has left large areas vulnerable to fires, exacerbating the ecological crisis in the region. As climate change continues to intensify weather patterns, it is imperative to implement effective strategies to mitigate its effects and safeguard the world’s critical ecosystems.

The Eko Skola committee members of Gozo College Rabat Primary School, initiated a remarkable display of environmental stewardship. They organised a clean up initiative of the Ramla Bay, situated in the Maltese islands. The initiative saw a large number of participation of grandparents and parents in support of the young environmentalist. 

Exploring Ramla Bay 

Ramla Bay, nestled on Gozo’s northern coast, boasts golden sands and crystal-clear waters, attracting visitors seeking pristine natural beauty. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The bay’s serene ambiance makes it a popular destination for relaxation and leisure activities. Its shallow waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore vibrant marine life. Ramla Bay’s rich history and cultural significance add to its allure, with nearby archaeological sites dating back to Roman times. Conservation efforts aim to preserve its ecological integrity for future generations to enjoy.

The Ramla Clean Up Drive 

The motto of the event was to promote environmental conservation and awareness. The occasion turned out to be a huge success. The volunteers were sleeved up with gloves, a sense of duty and trash bags. They meticulously cleaned the beach, by collecting the dirt and litter. Additionally the volunteers ensured that the area remains pristine for the tourists as well as the locals to enjoy. 

Along with this three rehabilitated loggerhead turtles were released back into their natural habitat . They were named as Liam, Daisy and Eva respectively. Earlier the turtles were in care and trust of the Nature Trust organisation. 

This successful clean-up activity along with the release of loggerhead turtles, highlighted people’s commitment. This showed us the resilience, commitment and hard work of the Ego Skola committee. The event also bore witness to the supportive community of parents under the guidance of teachers, Sue Ellen Attard and Jesse Mercieca. 

Majestic Loggerhead Turtles: Guardians of the Ocean

Loggerhead turtles, scientifically known as Caretta caretta, are among the largest of all sea turtle species. They inhabit oceans worldwide, with nesting sites primarily in the Mediterranean, North Atlantic, and Indian Ocean regions. These magnificent creatures play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, helping maintain healthy sea grass beds and coral reefs.

Loggerheads are easily recognisable by their reddish-brown shells and powerful jaws, which they use to crush crustaceans and mollusks. Despite their impressive size, loggerheads face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and accidental capture in fishing gear. Conservation efforts are underway globally to protect these iconic sea turtles and ensure their survival for future generations to marvel at their beauty and importance to marine ecosystems.

Conclusion 

Ramla Bay cleanup and turtle release demonstrate collective action’s power in preserving habitats and protecting species. Volunteers restored the bay’s beauty and supported marine life. The turtle release symbolizes hope for the future. Conservation efforts ensure vibrant ecosystems for all.

The community’s efforts in Ramla Bay signify a shared commitment to environmental stewardship. Volunteers dedicated themselves to restoring the bay’s natural beauty. Their actions demonstrate the positive impact of grassroots initiatives. Releasing turtles back into the wild signifies progress. It serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect endangered species. By prioritising sustainability, we ensure a brighter future.

In what a departure from the green energy track of the past, Greece is making a strategic turn to natural gas, pushed by geopolitics and big investments from Greek and European Union subsidies. In the world overview, natural gas is increasingly being used as a bridging fuel despite environmental concerns.

While once touted for having developed renewable energy sources at a breakneck pace, Greece has now decided to emerge as one of the biggest suppliers of natural gas to Europe. In a bet first made when the country was in the grips of a crushing decade-long financial crisis, investments of that magnitude originated in Greek soil, with wind turbines and solar panels occupying many lands, providing most of the fuels for electricity. However, the recent upshot shows an intentional turn toward fossil fuels, though not for home consumption.

Greece strategic Ambition

The vigor behind Greece’s renewed thrust on natural gas remains its ambition to be a significant player in European energy security, helping the West to lessen its reliance on Russian gas. This is evident in the laying of new pipelines and the construction of a state-of-the-art import terminal that would offload American liquefied natural gas to Central and Eastern Europe.

Its environmental impact cannot be sidelined, even though it is considered cleaner than coal and oil. Natural gas, when burned, produces carbon dioxide that is responsible for climate change and other unburned methane emissions, which further spoil its environmental record. The Biden administration, however, has supported Greece’s role in American gas exports, emphasizing its geopolitical significance.

Ambassador Pyatt’s Role in Greece Energy Pivot

The former U.S. ambassador to Greece and Ukraine, Geoffrey R. Pyatt, Greece played a leading role as an import hub.. Utilizing all this improved infrastructure in Greece within. Pyatt urged other U.S. officials to pump European citizens to consider purchasing American LNG. Presenting it as a real alternative to Russian gas.

The economic stakes for Greece’s turn towards natural gas are very high, with tremendous profits going to American gas companies from increased exports to Europe. But environmentalists claim that allowing for the prioritization of natural gas infrastructure at the expense of renewables will slow progress towards sustainable energy solutions. Especially in countries that are behind in the penetration of renewable energy, such as the Balkan region.

Economic Viability of Natural Gas Investments in Europe

The questions also remain about the economic viability of natural gas investments in Europe, with estimates suggesting that by 2030, there will be excess import capacity of LNG. Despite being generously subsidized by the public, a range of gas projects will struggle to be financially sustainable in the absence of ongoing state support for new investments, once again bringing up issues of public money allocation.

The World Wildlife Fund Greece has filed a legal injunction that blocks any public finance of gas infrastructure. Noting how the country succeeded instead in relation to harnessing renewables and strengthening its electricity grid. Greece’s declining domestic demand for gas over recent years has only exacerbated the urgency of such a strategy revision in line with climate goals.

As Greece moves further in this process of transitioning to natural gas, it will strike a fragile balance between geopolitical interests, economic imperatives, and environmental demands. The result will shape not only the energy landscape of Greece. But also broader discussions on global transitions in energy and efforts toward climate change mitigation.

Conclusion: Greece towards a sustainable Energy Future

As Greece addresses these challenges. It has the opportunity to become a leader in charting a course to a more sustainable and resilient energy future. By tapping its natural resources, investing in renewable energy infrastructures, and fostering international cooperation, Greece will be able to become a leading player in driving the needed transition to a cleaner, sustainable energy system. In this process, not only would it enhance its own energy security and economic prosperity. It could also contribute to worldwide efforts for combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable and prosperous world for all.

In a big step towards making environmental sustainability a possibility, the United Nations Development Programme and the Global Environment Facility have finally announced the US$135 million. Worth of funding for the (BGI-IP) Blue and Green Islands Integrated Programme. At the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States, they announced a one-of-a-kind initiative to the world. This program underscores the fact that nature is at the center of sustainable development in Small Island Developing States.

BGI-IP Scaling: Local Initiatives

The BGI-IP uses nature-based solutions to address pressure caused by environmental degradation in the key sectors of urban development, food production, and tourism. The program will enhance resilience and sustainability in some of the 15 targeted SIDs . Fifteen countries  selected from a pool of applicants following a competitive “Expressions of Interest.” The selected countries fall into the following geographic regions: Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea (AIS).

The program focuses on scaling local initiatives  implemented locally and that will address some of the specific challenges that are currently being experienced by the communities in SIDS. Fifteen countries selected: Belize, Cape Verde, Comoros, Cuba, Maldives, Mauritius, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Saint Lucia, Samoa, Seychelles, Timor Leste, Trinidad & Tobago and Vanuatu. The resources will focus on sustainable agriculture and fishing. Reduction of waste, including ocean plastic; nature-positive tourism; and resilience in extreme weather events.

Nature-Positive Tourism: BGI-IP Vision for SIDS

The GEF-funded BGI-IP managed by the UNDP is a collaboration of UNEP, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, the International Union for Conversation of Nature, WWF-US, the World Bank as well as other partners.

This was how Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator, described the importance of the initiative: “SIDS are on the frontlines of climate change and nature loss, facing the harsh realities of sea-level rise, unpredictable weather patterns, and degraded ecosystems. However, their unique situation also means they are driving forward a remarkable range of innovative and interconnected solutions. The Global Environment Facility provides invaluable support. The Blue and Green Islands Programme will scale-up nature solutions in the food, tourism, and urban sectors. This will assist in the transition of some critical sectors from nature-negative to nature-positive. Contributing to improving the daily lives of people in the small islands as well as helping to revive the health of our natural world.”

Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, GEF CEO and Chairperson, sounded the same horn, amidst underscoring, SIDS’s unique position as innovation incubators for sustainable development. “Nowhere is the connection between a strong economy and healthy environment and healthy people clearer than in the SIDS. Their unique vulnerabilities to biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate, and socio-economic changes, SIDS are the best incubators of innovation for sustainable development. The Blue and Green Integrated Islands Program is designed to address the need for obtaining actionable nature and ecosystems information. Among decision-makers, securing resources for actions that would matter, and building bridges across vast oceans to yield bigger results.”

Systemic Threats and a Promising Future

The interconnected programs, including the BGI-IP, address systemic threats that drive environmental degradation. By addressing threats across cities, food systems, plastics, and forest land use. The GEF invests in integrated programs that respond to all threats simultaneously. In aligning the program with the Antigua & Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS). We will address key barriers and promote a systematic shift in how ecosystems are protected and managed sustainably in SIDS.

The BGI-IP reflects a new tide of support for SIDS as we ride the wave of the Decade of Action from 2024 to 2034. It is an initiative promising significant global environmental benefits, fostering a sustainable and resilient future for our small island nations. Through concerted efforts and strong partnerships, BGI-IP will develop a blueprint for nature-positive development. Demonstrating the potential for the SIDS to lead in innovative and sustainable solutions to address the challenges posed by the environment and socio-economy.

Conclusion : A Sustainable Future

The Blue and Green Islands Integrated Programme (BGI-IP) represents an important milestone toward environmental sustainability in SIDS. By providing nature-based solutions and leveraging partnerships and participatory approaches. BGI-IP will address systemic threats and promote resilience in key sectors. With immense support from UNDP, GEF, and a host of other partners. BGI-IP does not only attest to the critical role of nature. But also foresees a promising future for SIDS against the backdrops of the Decade of Action. This initiative secures the path to a sustainable and resilient future and highlights the potential of SIDS. To lead in innovative solutions to global environmental challenges.

On World Environment Day 2024 this year, countries took action together under the theme “Our Land.”Our Future. #GenerationRestoration. Addresses the restoration of degraded lands, combats desertification, and builds resilience to drought. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted event for the second time in over 50 years in the West Asia region. Being a region with severe droughts, sandstorms, and rising temperatures, Saudi Arabia’s environmental challenges set the stage discourses for the day.

This year’s World Environment Day has seen a record 3,657 events take place globally. Governments, cities, civil society, universities, schools, and businesses are addressing  the issue. Activities ranged from high-level events in Riyadh to celebrations in South America. Zoos in Europe and Asia, soil restoration labs for children in Africa, posters in transport hubs, and the unveiling of North America’s largest mural. Tens of millions joined the online conversation, propelling #WorldEnvironmentDay to trend globally.

World environment Day – reality of  lands

UN Secretary-General António Guterres spoke from the American Museum of Natural History in New York on the vital importance of action on climate. He’s driving planetary boundaries close to their limits, resulting in broken global temperature records and the reaping of whirlwinds, . He added that this was affecting the poorest and most vulnerable people in the world, including Indigenous Peoples, women, and girls.

Some 40% of the world’s land is already degraded, impacting half of humanity and around 3.2 billion people. By 2050, more than three-quarters of the global population could be affected by droughts. World Environment Day 2024 will help ramp up global action on key commitments, including those to protect 30% of land and sea for nature and to restore 30% of degraded ecosystems. To meet land degradation neutrality goals by 2030, one billion hectares of land needs to be restored according to current trends, while countries have only committed to restoring one billion hectares.

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Environmental Goals

Saudi Arabia announced its aspiration to achieve ambitious environmental sustainability objectives to combat drought, desertification, and land degradation. It aims to work towards planting 50 billion trees within the region through the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative. As part of World Environment Day, the government showcased the land under restoration. And declared expanded assistance and finance to private and philanthropic environmental organizations.

Saudi Minister for Environment, Water and Agriculture, Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley, said the Kingdom was keen to contribute to regional cooperation to achieve the objectives of the UN Decade to reduce land degradation, conserve vegetation, promote biodiversity, and enhance food security.

UNEP’s  Action: Ecosystem Restoration

the event in Riyadh, Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, urged that drastic measures be taken and no time be wasted to meet the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration’s goals by 2030. She said restoration can address the triple planetary crisis, create jobs, reduce poverty, and build resilience to extreme weather.

Six new cities from Africa to Latin America joined UNEP’s Generation Restoration Cities today. The 600 kilometers of waterways, 2.1 million hectares of land, and 45 million inhabitants in these cities have committed to scaling-up ecosystem restoration using nature-based solutions.

Land Conservation and Restoration Worldwide

In the Maldives, President Mohamed Muizzu started a 5 Million Tree Project to enhance green cover. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reinforced 30% land and ocean conservation by 2030 and support the growth of clean energy industries. President Lula da Silva of Brazil and Environment Minister Marina Silva announced new environmental protection measures and ministry achievements.

Oman planted more than 16 million seeds through a program to plant 10 million native trees. Bangladesh pledged to expand tree cover to 25% of the country by 2030. Ulf Kristersson, the Prime Minister of Sweden, has banned bottom trawling in all marine protected areas and up to 12 nautical miles of territorial waters.

A new observatory opens to measure the success of the Great Green Wall in Africa. An external mural, the largest in North America, created to raise environmental awareness.. The Rainforest Trust conserved 50 million acres of habitat, an area 40 times the size of Grand Canyon National Park.

In Kazakhstan, people introduce Przewalski’s horses, leading to an increase in biodiversity.The Prince Talal International Prize for Human Development awarded $1,000,000 to Life on Land projects. The President of Liberia, Joseph Boakai declared World Environment Day to be a working holiday, emphasizing national resolve to sustainability.

Conclusion: Empowering our planet

People celebrated World Environment Day 2024 with the theme “Our Land. Our Future. #GenerationRestoration” to demonstrate global commitments to restoring degraded land, fighting desertification, and building resilience to drought. The event  hosted by Saudi Arabia, and with 3,657 activities registered across the globe, it registered unprecedented turnout. Some of the major announcements include ambitious tree planting, marine restoration efforts, and large-scale restoration milestones. UN and global leaders made a call for urgently turning the tides around to meet the restoration goals by 2030. Saudi Arabia’s commitments and global cooperation highlight the collective effort needed to combat environmental challenges and build a sustainable future. Against the critical importance of restoration and resilience in the face of climate change, this event occurs.

The Southwest U.S. first major Heat waves of the season, each expected to surpass temperatures of 110 degrees Fahrenheit in Las Vegas and Phoenix, are bracing the cities. Residents should prepare for the coming days’ “dangerously hot conditions,” according to the forecasters.

Heatwaves Trigger Records

The National Weather Service is warning, that southeast California through central Arizona will see its hottest weather since last September. Daily record highs are threat to across the area. Excessive heat warnings will last from 10 a.m. Wednesday until 8 p.m. Parts of southern Nevada and Arizona receive the call for parts on Friday. The unusual hot spell is expect to reach parts of the Pacific Northwest by the end of the week.

Marc Chenard’s: on heat waves

National Weather Service meteorologist Marc Chenard, from College Park, Maryland, gave further insight. High temperatures are reaching well into the 90s and beyond, exceeding averages for this season by as much as 10 to 20 degrees in some locations. The most impacted areas will be southeast California, southern Nevada, and much of Arizona.

 Impact of 110-Degree Heat waves

Chenard pointed out that the longer duration of the heat waves will make it more impactful. “We do have several days where these temperatures will persist, and that usually adds to the impact. If there is just one day, it doesn’t tend to have as much of an impact,” he explained. When you experience two, three, or four consecutive days of intense heat, and even the nights remain warm, the impact becomes more pronounced.

The extreme heat has already proved deadly. The U.S. Border Patrol reported that four migrants died last weekend from heat-related causes while trying to cross the border in southeast New Mexico. Border Patrol El Paso Sector Chief Anthony Good urged migrants to reconsider crossing in such extreme conditions.The desert environment is extremely unforgiving during the summer months.

Fire Risks : Temperature Extremes

Fire crews in Arizona are on high alert. Restrictions went into place ahead of Memorial Day. In some areas and will expand across most of the western and south-central parts of the state . Tiffany Davila, spokesperson for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, reported that this level of heat typically does’nt occur until mid or late June. Mother Nature is turning up the heat earlier than usual, as stated by her.

High temperatures on Monday reached 110 F (43.3 C) at Death Valley National Park, 103 F (39.4 C) in Phoenix, and 105 F (40.5 C) in Needles, California. In Las Vegas, where the high top out at 103 F (39.4 C) on Monday. The temperatures will rise 10 to 15 degrees above normal in the latter part of the week, peaking at 111 °C (43.8 °C on Thursday. Furnace Creek in Death Valley is forecast to hit 120 F (48.8 C) on Thursday.

Record-Breaking Predictions

Phoenix is forecast to hit 113 F (45 C) on Thursday, possibly surpassing the daily record high of 111 F (43.8 C) set in 2016. Last summer, Phoenix experienced a record 31 consecutive days of at least 110 F (43.3 C), which accounted for at least 400 of the 645 heat-related deaths during that period.

Efforts to Mitigate Heat Risks

Phoenix, Maricopa County, and Arizona state officials are taking action to protect residents from dangerous extreme heat. Among those most at risk are outdoor workers and people experiencing homelessness in cities. Where their often greatest lack of protection comes from a lack of shade, air conditioning, and cold water. More money is being provided by governments to make sure cooling stations. Open earlier for the day and that they will open on weekends, and some stay open around the clock.

Community Aid Programs

Mesa Mayor John Giles pointed out that the community takes its mission to help the most vulnerable very seriously. “We are commit to ensuring that  most vulnerable heat exposure have access to essential life-saving services, including hydration and cooling stations and daytime respite centers,” he stated.

The united nation observed the june 5 as international day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing. Calling attention to a serious issue that threatens marine biodiversity and disrupts the economy while being closely connects to more wide-reaching criminal activities. It carries out in violation of regulations in force. Or, and produces annual illegal gross profits in the tens of billions of U.S. dollars. Leading to equal losses in the economy from unpaid taxes, customs, and license fees.

IUU Fishing:  Threat to Marine Biodiversity and border security

IUU fishing is among the most serious threats to marine biodiversity. The integrity of in the context of climate change, acidification, and pollution. t practices eventually lead to depleted stocks. Ultimately affecting the people who depend on them—coastal communities that rely on this resource for  food and livelihoods. IUU fishers put undue pressure on the economic stability of these communities by engaging in unfair competition.

Security concerns and environmental issues are both serious implications of IUU fishing. It is often linked to various criminal activities, such as forced labor, trafficking in drugs and arms, and money laundering. This makes combating IUU fishing a multidimensional challenge that needs a comprehensive approach engaging the different stakeholders.

Global Efforts: Combat Illegal fishing

IUU fishing is a transnational problem that requires coordinated global attention. Success depends on the collaboration of the world’s governments, international organizations, regional fisheries management organizations, non-governmental organizations, civil society, and local communities. The private sector, including law-abiding fishers, vessel owners, operators, and seafood processors, who directly feel the impacts of IUU fishing, is also another stakeholder.

The United States has been in the forefront. In the global fight against IUU fishing, and in promoting sustainable fisheries, protection of ocean ecosystems, and strengthening coastal communities. Through a combination of global, regional, and bilateral initiatives, we achieve enhancing maritime security and promoting responsible fishing practices.

SAFE Act- The US strategy

The Safety and for Enforcement (SAFE) Port Act is illustrative of a far-reaching whole-of-government approach. The Act brings together many government agencies that oversee fishery management, trade, patrolling waters, and working with international partners. This whole-of-government approach ensures a coordinated and effective response to IUU fishing and its associated threats.

On the international stage, the U.S. is a leader in regional fisheries management organizations. Which advocates on behalf of the Port State Measures agreement, and advances negotiations in the World Trade Organization to eliminate harmful fisheries subsidies. These efforts are part of broader multilateral initiatives to comprehensively address IUU fishing by strengthening international governance structures.

Sustainable Fisheries and Marine Security

Based on President Biden’s 2022 National Security Memorandum on Combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing and Associated Labor Abuses.  National Five-Year Strategy for Combating IUU Fishing has been published by the United States. The Strategy establishes specific objectives and monitoring indicators to construct partnerships and programs. To counter IUU fishing and to strengthen maritime security in at-risk zones. The strategy that guided by three overarching objectives:

1.Support sustainable fisheries management worldwide.

2.Actively monitor, control, and surveillance of marine fishing activities.

3.Ensure that only legal, sustainable, and responsibly harvested seafood enters commerce.

Regional Engagements in Combating Illegal Fishing

Engagement with partner countries in targeted regions is vital to the effectiveness of such actions.  the United States, with the support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, collaborates with Senegal to support the development of judicial and prosecutorial capacity to address IUU fishing crime. The United States also funds vessel boarding training in Senegal with the help of INTERPOL to strengthen IUU fishing surveillance.

In the Philippines, USAID is also partnering with the government, academia, and fishing communities to address industrial-scale illegal fishing and increase local fisher’s compliance. With the IUU fishing threat assessment and index tool, we published a national assessment report to reinforce law enforcement, compliance, and IFF awareness.

Another indispensable element in achieving these goals is that of public-private partnerships, which will have the best results if harnessed with cutting-edge technologies and tools produced by NGOs and the seafood industry to pinpoint bad actors and ensure responsible supply chains. For instance, in Peru and Ecuador, USAID, together with the Walton Family Foundation, backs Por la Pesca. The past two years, the program has registered 750 vessels, trained over 2,700 fishers, and stimulated the adoption of six legal reforms to increase the effectiveness of fisheries management.

Conclusion: international cooperation for sustainable fisheries

The United States is committ to leading global efforts to combat IUU fishing through a comprehensive, strong, and internationally collaborative approach. Internationally, joint actions are taken to support living fishing industries, guarantee food security, and protect marine ecosystems. These actions are seen as ultimately contributing to the sustainability and well-being of communities around the globe.

Newly released figures by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) show that developed countries have reportedly met the target of summoning US$100 billion in climate aid for developing countries. They collectively assembled US$115.9 billion for climate-related projects in 2022. Thus overtaking the target set in 2009 during COP15 in Copenhagen.  This milestone is overshadowing by allegations of financial maneuvering and reallocation of existing aid.

Record Increase: Climate Aid Up by US$7.5 Billion

Touted as achieve in the year 2020, the target witnesses substantial funds. And it is characterizing by record rises in bilateral contributions and investments from multilateral development banks. Private sector finance mark a record rise of US$7.5 billion during the period, having comparatively stays dormant in previous years. This is the term for  “largest year-on-year increase observe to date” about climate finance.

However, the Center for Global Development (CGD) did an assessment that would tell a different story. The estimation about US$27 billion of the reports increase in public climate funds since 2002 is destroy from existing development aid. In 2022 alone, about US$6.5 billion of climate finance is  obtain through a reprogramming of resources. That is otherwise been allocat to other forms of bilateral development aid. This gives credence to the accusation that wealthy countries are merely repackaging existing aid allocations for climate purposes rather than committing new resources.

Climate Finance: ‘New and Additional’

The rub lies in the expectation that climate finance should, in UN climate negotiations, be “new and additional” to existing aid. A standard agreed upon, this is suppos to be met and upheld.  CGD’s analysis reveals that some of the increase in climate finance in 2022. It is actually achieve by shifting existing money from other areas of development, including health and education. The very practice of meeting targets by enhancing them—though not genuinely increasing the financial aid pool—and it is  critiqued and is at the core of it.

Ian Mitchell, a senior policy fellow at the CGD, expressed the issue most pointedly: “The intention is to provide ‘new and additional’ finance, and I think the very lowest bar for that is that the face value of [total] finance will gone up US$100 billion.” His words reflect the spirit in developing countries. Which consider this financial assistance vital for the realization of their climate goals under the Paris Agreement.

OECD: Loans Dominate Climate Finance

The report from OECD admits that about 69% of all public climate finance represents loans. This already brings some worry due to the high burden of debt developed by many countries worldwide. The substitution of grants by loans is even worst the financial liability of the nations. it is against the purpose of the climate aid is conceived.

COP29 Approaches, and Climate Finance Still Lacks a Definition
COP29 is approaching, which is expect to set a new climate finance target. This puts considerable pressure on developed countries to define their “climate finance” and confirm.  future commitments are new and additional. Harjeet Singh, global engagement director at the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, warned that rich countries are applying “creative accounting” methods to achieve their targets. Only a clear-cut definition of climate finance could help avoid this.

Conclusion

Once the US$100 billion target  achieved, it actually becomes a entrance moment for historic importance. The methods of delivery of such aid have put the integrity and continuity of climate finance into question. With the international community looking up to COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the demand for integrity and responsibility in financial commitments was never more pressing. The outcome of these very negotiations is likely to set the framework for the global approach. To climate finance for several years to come and will therefore determine. The prospects of effective global climate change combating paired with development needs in the global south.

In Afghanistan the Quash Tepa Canal is under construction. It is likely to divert 20% of the water flow of the Amu Darya River which might lead to possible water shortage in Uzbekistan. Additionally it might also affect Turkmenistan’s water supply as it is further downstream. 

A climate conference held in Almaty, Kazakhstan from May 27 to May 29 which included representation from Central Asian Countries. The impact of this project taken up by the Taliban Administration was discussed in a panel discussion by Rieks Bosch. He pointed out that any possible benefits would be greatly outweighed by the project’s detrimental effects on Uzbekistan.

Impact of Uzbekistan’s Agriculture 

This water crisis will exponentially affect Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector. If this project gets actualised there can be significant water wastage which might increase water prices in the agricultural sector. The Taliban plans to divert one fifth of the Amu Darya’s water into the canal, a move that would necessitate a 50% reduction in water use by the Uzbek regions of Khorezm and Karakalpakstan. 

One of the main concerns is water prices. Water supplied by public utilities costs between $1.20 and $1.60 per cubic meter in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, but its true value is closer to $16. This canal project will certainly spike the water prices. Water conservation efforts are underway, but there is currently no working link between resource management and pricing development.

The emphasis should now be on preserving an efficient water supply in Uzbekistan. As it already has procedures in place for both profitable and efficient water use.

History of Quash Tepa Canal 

This project was ideated by the Britishers, far back in the 1950s. Later on taken up by the Russians, then Americans and now the Taliban Administration. It was officially proposed by the Afghanistan government in the year 2022. It starts from a point on the Amu Darya river in the Balkh region of northern Afghanistan.In October 2023 Afghanistan gave assurance to Uzbekistan that this project will not hamper their country’s water supply. 

However, Afghanistan is resolute that this canal project can boost its agriculture industry. On the other hand Bosch has emphasized that building a canal would be easy but building an irrigation system will prove to be 10 times more difficult. Taliban might face substantial challenges to develop an efficient irrigation scheme as it has its own complexities involved.

It is estimated that without a proper irrigation system 30%-40% of the diverted water through the canal will be wasted. An artificial reservoir built near the canal is getting eroded either due to river flow or rising groundwater levels. 

Role of Diplomacy and Negotiations

The Uzbekistan government is trying to establish communication with the Taliban administration, which is proving to be a difficult nut to crack. The Afghanistan administration is showing no intent of involving itself in any agreements with Central Asia on this matter. 

The Eurasian Development Bank’s (EDB) chairman of the board, Nikolai Podguzov, brought attention to the dire impending water shortages in Central Asia last year. The building of the canal would make this worse.

Conclusion 

Central Asia is heavily dependent on Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers for 92% of their irrigation. This region is also very vulnerable to climate change. Because of the Qosh Tepa’s subpar technology and significant water loss from leaks, it is anticipated that water flow to downstream nations like Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan would decrease.

By 2028–2029, even without the canal, it was predicted that Central Asia would experience a five–12 cubic kilometer yearly water shortfall. This will  endanger  its supply of food, drink, and electricity.

On an early morning on 24 May, Yambi village in Papua New Guinea was hit by a devastating landslide. The estimated numbers say that over 2,000 people are buried under the debris and around 70,000 are affected. 40% of the affected victims are children below the age of 16. This unfortunate incident was due to mountain collapse leading to a colossal landslide. The United Nations has estimated at least 670 deaths and would rise to thousands. 

Papua New Guinea At risk 

The rescue operation is still ongoing and only 6 bodies have been recovered. As the area is still very unstable it slowed down the rescue and security operations. Due to the landslide in Yambi village of Enga province, the entire hillside community was wiped out. Papua New Guinea is very vulnerable to such natural disasters. 

Papua New Guinea is listed in the 2022 World Risk Index as the 16th most vulnerable country in the world to natural disasters and climate change. However it accounts for only 0.11% of greenhouse gas emissions. These natural disasters are due to a number of reasons such as geographical location, deforestation and climate change. 

Why did it happen?

Papua New Guinea’s geography is marked by its mountainous terrain and tropical climate. Along with that it is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire. It is a huge tectonic belt consisting of hundreds of volcanoes and earthquakes in the Pacific Ocean.  The ring is a horseshoe shaped, semi-circular belt witnessing movements of the tectonic plate. Heavy rains, storms are also some probable causes for landslides. 

The Enga mountains are vulnerable to such disasters as they are in close proximity to the Australia and Pacific continental plates. 

Mining activities are very prevalent in this region which also is a main cause for disasters. Deforestation for plantation agriculture might also be considered a cause for the same. This landslide was not directly triggered by an earthquake but due to steep slopes of high mountains caused by colliding tectonic plates as stated by an official. 

Effects of Climate Change 

Similar to the rest of the world Papua New Guinea is also facing the effects of climate change which causes rising temperatures. The United Nations said that the average temperature difference between 1900–1917 and 2000–2017 indicates that the country has experienced an increase in temperature of about 0.8 — 0.9 degrees Celsius. Due to global warming and the increasing temperature the atmosphere then holds more moisture leading to heavy precipitation. As Papua New Guinea experiences heavy rainfalls it triggers landslides. 

Papua New Guinea is one of the poorest countries in the Asia-Pacific region, which lacks appropriate and efficient infrastructure to deal with such devastating environmental disasters. Due to lack of infrastructure and finances Papua New Guinea is not well equipped to deal with such large scale environmental disasters. It is still unclear about the number of people living in the hilly and dense forest region where the landslide hit. As the last census was nearly 24 years back. 

Regretfully, Papua New Guinea will not have its first deadly landslide in 2024. In mid-March, there were three distinct landslides that claimed the lives of at least twenty-one persons nationwide; in April, there was another occurrence that claimed the lives of fourteen people.

Global Response 

Currently Wabag Diocese is providing food to the affected population. The government had emergency meetings with other countries mediated by the UN. They had asked for immediate response and assistance to deal with risks. The UN has warned of a significant disease outbreak risk, among the displaced and affected population. They still have not received sufficient food supplies and clean water. The International Organization for Migration (IOM), is supplying food and purification tablets to the affected population on priority.