In the midst of the 28th annual United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) held in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023, the international community united once again to tackle the pressing issue of global climate change. With a key focus on limiting global temperature rises to 1.5°C, the conference emphasized urgent measures to transition to clean energy, facilitate financial support for climate action in developing nations, and achieve the most inclusive participation to date.
One country deeply entrenched in environmental challenges is Peru, home to the second-largest portion of the Amazon rainforest. Facing rampant deforestation, Peru experienced unprecedented loss, with an estimated 26,000 km² disappearing over the past two decades. In the San Martin department of Peru, specifically in Moyobamba, there was a significant loss of tree cover. In 2010, Moyobamba had 352 thousand hectares (kha) of tree cover, extending over 93% of its land area. However, in 2022, it lost 3.58 kha of tree cover, equivalent to 1.76 Mt of CO₂ emissions lost . The whole region has been grappling with illegal deforestation and environmental crimes, including exploitation by criminal groups seeking monetary gains and power. Tragically, this has led to several Peruvian environmentalist advocating for the Amazon losing their lives in the pursuit of environmental justice.
At COP28, Peru took significant steps to address its environmental challenges and contribute to global climate action. The country played a pivotal role in the signing of the declaration titled “A promise for nature and well-being for climate action” and inked a memorandum of understanding with Italy to promote climate action. These actions underscore Peru’s commitment to combating environmental degradation and aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
The COP28 conference concluded with a groundbreaking call for a worldwide transition away from fossil fuels, emphasizing the urgency of adopting sustainable energy sources. This aligns with Tierra Selva’s mission, further emphasizing the need for a global shift towards eco-friendly practices.
In summary, the intersection of COP28 and the environmental challenges faced by Peru, particularly in the Amazon, highlights the critical role played by nations and advocacy groups like Tierra Selva in addressing climate change. The urgent need for international collaboration, policy reform, and sustainable practices has never been clearer. Tierra Selva’s ongoing efforts underscore the importance of grassroots initiatives in contributing to a sustainable future for our planet.
Tierra Selva, an environmental advocacy group rooted in Peru, has been at the forefront of the fight against climate change. Through various activities and programs, Tierra Selva has actively worked to mitigate deforestation, promote sustainable practices, and raise awareness about the critical importance of preserving biodiversity. The group’s dedication to environmental stewardship aligns with the international community’s call for collective action in the face of climate challenges.
Look for us at the next cop which will be hosted in Brazil.
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