Faith leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean have released a document calling for urgent climate action in anticipation of COP30. The document, presented to Brazil’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, stresses the need for government accountability in climate finance and the elimination of fossil fuel subsidies, while prioritizing the voices of affected communities.
Latin American and Caribbean faith leaders have issued a document entitled “A Call to Action towards COP30,” which was presented to Brazilian Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Marina Silva, during her visit on the meeting’s final day. This document addresses the pressing climate emergency and the irreversible impacts of climate change. COP30 is scheduled to convene in Brazil in November 2025.
The call emphasizes the grave threats to sacred territories, particularly due to the destruction of the Amazon and other ecosystems resulting from large-scale agriculture, mining, and fossil fuel extraction. It critiques these activities as destructive actions justified by the pursuit of economic progress, which primarily benefits a concentrated few.
Furthermore, the statement highlights the increased persecution faced by environmental and human rights defenders who strive to protect these lands. It warns against repeating the mistakes of previous climate conferences, such as stalled fossil fuel phase-outs and unfulfilled climate financing commitments.
The faith leaders urge governments and the international community to tackle the climate crisis with urgency, demanding effective delivery on climate finance pledges, the full implementation of the Loss and Damage Fund, and support for communities adapting to climate change. They stress that the commitments from COP29 did not meet the financial needs of developing nations addressing climate issues.
In their appeal, the leaders call for the immediate operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund, emphasizing that affected communities should have streamlined access. They also warn that failure to reduce fossil fuel use threatens both the environment and the existence of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.
Moreover, the document advocates for a commitment at COP30 to transition to 100% renewable energy and progressively eliminate fossil fuel subsidies, redirecting those funds toward sustainable development. The signatories recognize the resilience and creativity of Latin American and Caribbean communities in adapting to devastating climate impacts.
In summary, the document “A Call to Action towards COP30” encapsulates the urgent need for decisive climate action from governments and global leaders. It emphasizes the suffering caused by climate change, calls for immediate financial support to developing nations, and advocates for a shift towards renewable energy. The faith leaders’ plea is a reminder of the moral responsibility to act for the benefit of future generations and to protect vulnerable communities.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
