Caribbean Nations Advocate for Climate Funding at COP29 in Baku

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is bringing its climate advocacy to the forefront at the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

As a voice for the Caribbean region, the CTO will highlight the pressing climate challenges faced by small island developing states (SIDS), with a particular focus on the tourism sector’s vulnerability. Tourism serves as the Caribbean’s economic backbone, and the CTO aims to emphasize the realities faced by the region’s 44.5 million residents—rising sea levels, more frequent and severe hurricanes, and environmental degradation threatening livelihoods, infrastructure, and natural landmarks.

“Tourism is the heartbeat of the Caribbean. Yet, we must confront the stark reality that our islands contribute the least but are among the most vulnerable to climate change. The effects of rising sea levels, beach erosion, and stronger and unpredictable hurricanes impact not only our economies but also the very essence of Caribbean life,” stated Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General & CEO of CTO. “Our presence at COP29 is a critical step in advancing climate-resilient tourism practices and ensuring that global climate action addresses the unique challenges of our region.”

The CTO remains aligned with initiatives like the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism and looks to COP29 for tangible outcomes that embed tourism into global climate strategies. A unified statement will call for stronger climate action, increased funding for resilience, and supportive policies to safeguard tourism-dependent economies. A high-level session with Ministers of Tourism is scheduled for November 20.

Through its active engagement, the CTO continues to advocate for sustainable tourism practices, the adoption of renewable energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure. The organization’s efforts underscore the message that the Caribbean’s climate vulnerabilities are a global concern, requiring collective and immediate action.

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