Panama City, May 25, 2023 - In an effort to strengthen Panama's resilience to climate change, the launch of the project "Building capacities for the development of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) in the context of adaptation issues of the NDCs in Panama" took place. The event counted with the outstanding participation of Rosa Montañez, Executive Director of Fundación Natura Panama, who leads the solutions, based on the results of the Adaptation Fund in Panama.
Panama, despite having low per capita emissions, is particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. Recognizing this situation, the Ministry of Environment, as the Designated National Authority, together with the support of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), has launched this ambitious project financed by the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
The main objective of the NAP project is to develop the country's sustainable capacity and strengthen stakeholder participation in the planning, financing, implementation, monitoring and reporting of strategic adaptation processes. In addition, it seeks to communicate knowledge on climate change adaptation, covering ten adaptation topics aligned with Panama's nationally determined contributions.
The event, which took place at the Marriott Hotel, Albrook Mall, was attended by prominent leaders in the field, including Rosa Montañez. The Executive Director of Fundación Natura Panama, internationally recognized for its commitment to environmental conservation, was enthusiastic about this project and highlighted the importance of ecosystem-based solutions to address the challenges of climate change.
During his speech, Montañez highlighted the need for close collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as the importance of involving local communities in decision-making.
"Protecting our ecosystems is critical to ensuring a sustainable future. We must work together to preserve and restore our natural resources, adopting innovative approaches that benefit both people and the environment."
Rosa Montañez, Executive Director, Fundación Natura Panama
The launch of the NAP Coordination Platform and Working Group marks the beginning of a comprehensive process that will promote climate change adaptation in Panama. This project is expected to be a significant milestone in building a more resilient and sustainable country.
Fundación Natura Panama is once again positioning itself as a benchmark in the fight against climate change. Its leadership and experience in ecosystem-based solutions will be fundamental to the success of this project and to inspire other actors to join this important cause.
The NAP project in Panama seeks to generate a tangible impact on the way the country deals with climate change. Through collaboration between the Ministry of Environment, UNEP and other stakeholders, it is expected to strengthen national capacity to develop effective adaptation strategies.
During the event, the ten key adaptation issues to be addressed under the NAP project were discussed. These themes are aligned with Panama's nationally determined contributions submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in 2020. Focusing on national priorities and strategies will ensure that adaptation measures are relevant and effective in the Panamanian context.
In her speech, Rosa Montañez also emphasized the importance of ecosystem-based solutions to address the challenges of climate change. These solutions involve the protection, restoration and sustainable use of natural ecosystems to provide benefits to both communities and the environment. By focusing on the power of nature to provide services and mitigate the impacts of climate change, more effective and resilient adaptation can be achieved.
As the NAP project develops and progresses, it is expected to strengthen local capacities, foster citizen participation and promote informed decision-making on climate change adaptation. With the participation of leaders and organizations, the path to a more sustainable future in Panama becomes clearer and more promising.
This event marks the beginning of a joint effort to address the impacts of climate change in Panama and lay the foundations for resilient development. With the active participation of Fundación Natura Panama, the fight against climate change is gaining renewed momentum and a horizon of hope is opening up for the country.
RedLAC Communications Coordinator
pablo.portillo@fiaes.org.sv pablo.portillo@fiaes.org.sv
