EnviMin says 2023 among hottest years on record, action needed to counter adverse climate effects
The Minister of the Environment, Waters and Forests, Mircea Fechet, declared on Tuesday during the event "Climate change and development: perspectives for Romania", held at Cotroceni Palace, that 2023 will be on the list of the warmest years ever measured and emphasized, in context, that protecting the environment represents a "collective responsibility", in view of a "safe and prosperous" future for all citizens.
Fechet mentioned that the Country Report on climate and development, produced by the World Bank in collaboration with the institutions of the Romanian state, represents "a complex x-ray of Romania's climate vulnerabilities and a guide for public policies" needed going forward. At the same time, he noted that some data presented are worrisome, referring to floods becoming more frequent and endangering the health and well-being of the population, heat waves and droughts that threaten agriculture - an important sector and livelihood for many Romanians.
The minister added, however, that we are not "powerless" in the face of these challenges, because there are solutions and the necessary resources to address them. At the same time, he referred to the "moral duty" to act, stressing that protecting the environment represents a "collective responsibility", with a view to a "safe and prosperous" future for all citizens.
He recalled that the Ministry of Environment proposed investments in water infrastructure, in modern irrigation systems and flood protection measures. Other objectives are to support vulnerable communities in order to adapt to climate change and ensure access to energy. The minister emphasized the importance of collaboration between institutions, but also at the level of the European Union, for managing the challenges generated by climate change.
According to the official from the Environment, climate change does not only represent "a risk, but also a historical opportunity to transform the Romanian society into a modern and resilient one". He also expressed his hope that Romania will be transformed into a "sustainable country, with a clean environment and a strong economy".
"Together, we can build a better future for future generations. With vision, courage and solidarity, Romania can prosper in the era of climate change," said Fechet.
AGERPRES