Peer-learning round table on SDG 13, Regional Forum on Sustainable Development
Solving the Rubik’s cube of the planetary crisis: lining up policy solutions for climate risks and biodiversity loss
Geneva
Switzerland
The first half of the round table will focus on the importance of strengthening preparedness to climate extremes through multi-hazard early warning systems, building on the Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative of the UN Secretary General, which aims at spearheading action to ensure every person on Earth is protected by early warning systems by 2027.
The second half of the roundtable will explore the ways in which climate change and biodiversity loss can and should be addressed together with policies having largely tackled these challenges independently.
Short summary of the round-table peer-learning as presented by the Forum co-chairs to the plenary
Climate change impacts all facets of society and threatens SDG progress. The number of individuals affected by climate-related disasters continues to rise.
The Early Warnings for All initiative strives to protect everyone from hazardous weather, water and climate events. Policies and actions addressing climate risks, including the implementation of this initiative, must be based on collaboration between actors across sectors at all levels - local, national and transboundary.
Risk assessments, response plans and social protection play a vital role in mitigating climate risks for the poor and vulnerable, children, people living with disabilities and older persons. Policies and actions addressing climate risks should engage youth, women and minorities.
The interconnectedness of climate change and biodiversity loss demands integrated policy solutions, including budgeting. Holistic policies require science-based understanding and effective communication on the role of nature. Turning policy into practice calls for integrated planning, nature-based solutions and consensus building.
Participatory approaches foster ownership and knowledge co-production. Collaboration between communities, academia and the private sector builds sustainable, evidence-based policy solutions grounded in social justice and human rights.
Transparency, accountability and inclusive decision-making are essential for successful climate and biodiversity financing. We must increase investment in education on climate resilience and biodiversity action.