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Across the globe, from Morocco to Maharashtra and California to Quebec, the United Nations’ Local Leaders initiative highlights impactful leadership that significantly improves lives in both developed and developing nations.
Celebrated annually on April 22, International Mother Earth Day serves as a platform to inspire climate action while showcasing the crucial role local leaders play in addressing worldwide environmental challenges.
Here are some of the local leaders who are paving the way for positive change:
Maharashtra, India: Pankaja Munde, Minister for Environment and Climate Change
“Maharashtra ranks among the top five Indian states most vulnerable to climate change impacts, having faced 142 extreme weather events last year alone.
Our focus encompasses decarbonizing the construction sector, promoting electric vehicle use, expanding green spaces, fostering climate-resilient agriculture, and advocating for bamboo farming as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
The Mazi Vasundhara Abhiyan (My Earth Mission) is our flagship initiative that illustrates grassroots mobilization’s potential in combating climate change and emphasizes the essential role of communities in advancing the climate agenda.”
Find out more here.
California, USA: Gavin Newsom, Governor
“The year began with devastating firestorms in Los Angeles, reflecting Californians’ firsthand experiences of climate change—characterized by hotter temperatures, prolonged dryness, and ferocious storms.
Since 2014, our cap-and-trade program has facilitated over $11 billion in climate investments, with more than 75% of this funding allocated directly to low-income and frontline communities.
California exemplifies that it is possible to prioritize bold climate action without compromising a robust economy.”
Read further here.
Guelmim-Oued Noun, Morocco: Mbarka Bouaida, President of the Regional Council
“Our region is facing increasingly erratic rainfall patterns, extended droughts, and a pressing issue of desertification, all of which exert considerable pressure on our water supplies, ecosystems, and agricultural output.
To mitigate these challenges, we are investing in seawater desalination, constructing hill dams, enhancing artificial aquifer recharge, and reusing wastewater.
This comprehensive strategy yields tangible environmental and social benefits, bolstered by improved water security, resource circularity, and reduced susceptibility in rural areas, all while striving to bridge regional inequalities.”
Discover more here.
Explore additional insights from other local leaders here.
Source
news.un.org