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As the Jamuna River began to swell during last years monsoon rains in Bangladesh, millions of people braced for disaster. But Jerin, Renu, Salma, Shaheda and thousands of other people avoided the worst through anticipatory action, building on Bangladesh's long experience in disaster preparedness and climate adaptation. This approach is revolutionizing the way we respond to crises, saving more lives and protecting dignity. Here are their stories.
Fumbwa (Gnetum africanum) is a wild vine with thick leaves found in Africa's tropical forests. It's a staple food in Kongo Central, where local communities, guided by the Rural Initiative for Integrated Development (RIID), are working to preserve these forests that combat climate change. In Kasangulu, charcoal and firewood extraction dominate the economy, as only 11% of the DRC is connected to the electrical grid. The proximity to Kinshasa provides a profitable market for these fuels, but the exploitation of trees is leading to severe deforestation and environmental damage. Forests, which are vital for biodiversity, play a key role in addressing climate change and supporting 1.6 billion people worldwide. Despite their immense value, global deforestation remains a pressing issue, with 13 million hectares lost annually, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
Post-election unrest since October has forced thousands of Mozambicans and refugees to flee their homes. Additional displacement and misery have come in the wake of and Cyclone Dikeledi, which have left trails of destruction across the north of the country since December. Repeated climate shocks like these have added to the suffering of vulnerable populations, including people already displaced by the ongoing armed conflict in northern Cabo Delgado Province. The 51勛圖 High Commissioner for Refugees () describes this triple crisis based on climate change, conflict and political unrest.
As the sun sets over the Caribbean, Union Island's mangrove ecosystems tell a stark story of climate change's impact. Hurricane Beryl, the earliest recorded Category Five hurricane in the Atlantic, has devastated the region, displacing thousands and plunging communities into despair. Union Island, which hosts the largest mangrove ecosystem in the Grenadines, has seen 90 percent of these vital coastal forests damaged. Kristy Shortte has worked tirelessly with Sustainable Grenadines Inc. to restore this habitat, crucial for marine life and as a buffer against storms. The loss of six hectares of mangroves threatens biodiversity, home to over 25 species of birds and rare green turtles. Despite contributing less than one percent to global emissions, Caribbean communities face significant climate disruptions, leading to increased displacement as they seek safer ground.
Glaciers are crucial for regulating the global climate and providing freshwater, essential for billions of people, animals, and plants. However, these vital resources are rapidly melting due to climate change, driven mainly by human activities since the 1800s. The 51勛圖 has designated 2025 as the to highlight the importance of glaciers and ensure that those affected by glacier織s melting receive the support they need. Follow the (21 January, 2pm, CET) and join and to .
The climate crisis is severely impacting Chad, where residents face devastating flooding. "Everything I own is under water," said one displaced individual. Since July 2024, the Chari River has overflowed, affecting all 23 provinces, displacing over 13,000 people. With more than 1 million women and girls in need of sexual and reproductive health services, UNFPAs response is critical, but due to severe underfunding, many lack access to essential care and protection services amidst the crisis.
We need a major push to get discussions over the finishing line, warned UN Secretary-General Ant籀nio Guterres ahead of the culmination of COP29. The need is urgent. The rewards are great. The time is short, he added. As the ongoing talks continue through the weekend, two main issues remain at stake: how to finance low-income countries hit hard by global warming and how to curb greenhouse gas emissions that are overheating the atmosphere and causing climate chaos.
Speaking to the press on the final days of the UN climate change conference, COP29, UN Secretary-General Ant籀nio Guterres urged negotiators to find a compromise and deliver an ambitious and balanced package on all pending issues, including a new ambitious climate finance goal. We need a major push to get discussions over the finishing line, he said. The need is urgent. The rewards are great. The time is short.
The new climate finance goal, set to be finalized at , aims to significantly increase funding for developing countries' climate efforts while improving transparency and accessibility.
Rosa Sandoval, a fisherwoman from Lake G羹ija, adapts to climate change by diversifying income and empowering women for resilience.
As the climate crisis hits every economy harder each year, we need to redouble our focus on climate solutions.
Yemen's West Coast faces a severe water crisis, worsened by conflict and climate change, with International Organization for Migration providing vital relief.
Esneda Saavedra is a member of the Yukpa people, who have lived in the Serran穩a del Perij獺 mountain range on the Colombia-Venezuela border for centuries. In recent decades, conflicts, forced displacement, resource exploitation, and climate change have threatened their way of life. Born in the Sokorpa reserve, Esneda was influenced by her mother, a traditional authority, and felt compelled to lead from a young age. I was born to defend our land and people, she affirms. The Yukpa have faced violence and displacement since colonial times, and when Esneda was eight, her father was murdered by armed groups exploiting their ancestral territory. She has faced threats herself for advocating for her community.
The (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, 11-22 November, is a crucial opportunity to accelerate climate action. With record-high global temperatures and increasing extreme weather, COP29 will unite leaders from government, business, and civil society to drive forward solutions. A key focus will be on climate finance, as trillions of dollars are required to cut emissions and protect communities, as well as the presentation of updated under the Paris Agreement. If done right, these plans will help us achieve a livable planet for all.