- The translated content should simplify the complex scientific terms used by experts, in order to actualize our objective.
- With rising greenhouse gas emissions, climate change is occurring at rates much faster than anticipated. We can still limit the rise in global temperature to 1.5 degrees.
- EcoClimate Vision has embarked on a vigorous campaign towards climate change mitigation, bringing on board over 200 Country Representatives and at least 600 volunteers across the Global South.
Access to accurate and localized climate information is a fundamental right for all, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic background.
This comes in the wake of new research by global climate actors that communities across the globe are misinformed and misguided on their role in climate change mitigation due to climate ignorance.
Speaking recently during the orientation of over 200 Country Representatives drawn from the Global South, Bernard Birikorang, the Co-Founder and CEO at EcoClimate Vision, said it was time to provide localized content to communities across the globe to enable them to access climate information in a language they understand.
Making it local
“We must work tirelessly to source climate change information from reputable sources and translate it into various languages spoken across the Global South.
The translated content should simplify the complex scientific terms used by experts, in order to actualize our objective,” Birikorang told the audience.
EcoClimate Vision, a global organization empowering the Global South in the fight against climate change, aims to empower individuals and communities with the necessary knowledge and tools to combat and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.
Mr. Birikorang reminded the Country Representatives that by disseminating climate change information in different languages, the organization strives to ensure no one is left behind in the fight against the menace.
“As our dedicated team across the Global South, you must actualize, through our support, the translation of climate change information through engaging local experts, to provide comprehensive and accessible resources, enabling individuals and communities to make informed decisions and taking proactive steps towards climate resilience,” he added.
Working as a team
Gertrude Acquah, Co-Founder of EcoClimate Vision, asked the officers to collaborate with all stakeholders in order to collectively address the challenges of climate change in the Global South.
She said collaborations would initiate and enhance the implementation of climate change mitigation and adaptation projects.
“Through collaborations, capacity building, training programs, and awareness campaigns, we set ourselves on the path to local empowerment, enhancing our intention in boosting local stakeholders’ involvement in changing communities,” Ms Acquah stressed.
She added that EcoClimate Vision will rely on the contribution and involvement of the Country Representatives in addressing the key concerns of climate change.
According to her, amplifying the voices of affected communities would influence policy decisions and promote sustainable and inclusive approaches to climate action and environmental conservation.
“EcoClimate Vision engages with policymakers, advocates, and friends of the universe for the formulation of climate change policies that focus on the needs and vulnerabilities of the Global South.
Left unchecked, the changing climate will lead to untold disaster, including the emergence of floods, and droughts,” she added.
She commended the Country Representatives for taking up the challenging role of defining the future of climate change action in their countries, appealing to them to work as a team.
Ms Acquah encouraged them to open up the scope of their climate change action involvement by embracing various activities such as reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Embracing smart practices
“As you push climate change action forward, remember to encourage climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy initiatives, and community-based disaster risk reduction measures.
To realize this calling, you have a duty to collaborate with governments, businesses, and civil society organizations to design and implement climate change mitigation and adaptation projects,” she explained.
George Birikorang, the Director of Innovation at EcoClimate Vision, told the audience that it was time the world embraced new ideas for combatting climate change.
He said the current society expects new approaches and activities in dealing with climate change.
“We have a dynamic society, the youth in our communities within the Global South are dynamic too.
As drivers of the climate change mitigation agenda in our countries, we must be innovative enough, proactive, and flexible in our action plan.
We must remain committed towards climate change action since the effects and consequences of climate change are fatal,” he said.
Empowering communities
Through workshops and seminars, the organization intends to create awareness and meaningful climate change consultations within communities, educational institutions, and stakeholders.
Testimony Atsu, Director of Technology, called for responsible engagement in climate change mitigation.
Networking, according to him, is a powerful tool that has always been embraced in achieving some of the most pressing assignments.
“We make a humble appeal to all of you to remain focused on the goal, without engaging in sideshows.
Climate change is a time bomb; your commitment and resilience are crucial. We verified your credentials, and we were convinced you were equal to the task.
Kindly, perform your duties with great love for nature, knowing your commitment and service is for today and the future,” Atsu stated.
Bonface Okwero, Director of Research at EcoClimate Vision, echoed his remarks, stating that focusing on youth and women would be a great deal in the organization’s long-term plan.
He rallied for continued support in fostering sustainable community development initiatives and encouraging sustainable waste management.
“The war on climate change won’t be won without research.
As EcoClimate Vision family, we rely on genuine research information to address climate change troubles. Research offers a reliable tool for community engagement and empowerment,” said Okwero.
The call
Dinnah Awino, Deputy Director of Grants, Partnerships and Development at EcoClimate Vision, called on the county representatives to initiate programs and activities that are both environmentally and community-friendly.
She acknowledged their contributions in explaining the role of EcoClimate Vision to the local communities, asking them to promote programs that are easy to adopt and implement.
“As a department in charge of grants, partnerships, and development, we assure you of our commitment and responsibility in availing resources to enhance your performance.
We, nonetheless, continue to appeal for structural, logistical, and financial support from our friends, to enhance our operations,” pleaded Awino.
Sandra Ruong’o, the organization’s Director of Communication, asked the new leaders to continue the discussion on climate change mitigation, challenging all of them to support activities geared towards making the world better and brighter for future generations.
The entry of EcoClimate Vision in climate change discussion and recruitment of over 200 Country Representatives is expected to boost the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which are a call for action by all countries to promote prosperity while protecting the planet.
The SDGs recognize that ending poverty must go hand in hand with strategies that build economic growth and address a range of social needs, including social protection, education, job opportunities, and health while tackling climate change and environmental protection.
In his address during the November edition of The Month Editorial, the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, said, “Every person, in every country, in every continent will be or is impacted in some shape or form by climate change.
With rising greenhouse gas emissions, climate change is occurring at rates much faster than anticipated. We can still limit the rise in global temperature to 1.5 degrees.
We can still build a world of clear air, green jobs, and affordable clean power to all. The path forward is clear.”
EcoClimate Vision has embarked on a vigorous campaign towards climate change mitigation, bringing on board over 200 Country Representatives and at least 600 volunteers across the Global South.
The Global South countries include Africa, Asia, Latin America, and The Caribbean.
During the orientation, the representatives were taken through their roles, including advocacy and representation, monitoring and evaluation, capacity building, and financial management.
