"It is imperative to adopt comprehensive measures to address these issues", defended Rafael Lucas in statements to Lusa regarding the 28th United Nations Conference on Climate Change in 2023 (COP28), which takes place between 30 November and 12 December 2023 in Dubai.
For this official, the state of the environment in Angola is "critical" as Angola faces significant environmental challenges "with deforestation, loss of biodiversity and pressure on water resources", but also "loaded with a lot of hope".
The founder of this non-governmental organization for the defense and protection of the environment in Angola, considers that for the country to face climate change "it is crucial to implement sustainable policies such as the promotion of renewable energy".
The installation of solar panels, "vital to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and investments in sustainable agricultural practices and efficient management of natural resources" must be included in sustainable policies, he reinforced.
Regarding COP28 expectations, the leader of Quercus Angola signaled that this should be a "crucial opportunity" for the country to show its commitment to global sustainability.
"The country is expected to actively participate in discussions on mitigating climate change and adapting to its consequences, in addition it is necessary to create mechanisms to seek international financing for environmental projects", he noted.
In Rafael Lucas's opinion, collaboration with other African nations is also essential during this international climate conference, noting that "problems linked to climate change are not resolved in isolation".
"Hence this need to seek partnerships, exchange ideas with other institutions at this COP28", he pointed out.
The Angolan NGO, he added, is supporting initiatives that promote environmental conservation and public awareness with work to involve local communities, the Government and the private sector in the search for sustainable solutions.
"We also believe that with concerted efforts in Angola we can achieve a balance between sustainable development and environmental preservation, thus building a more sustainable and more resilient future for Angola," he said.
