Reaching climate targets is impossible without paying attention to freshwater ecosystems, Zo Andrianina Rakotomavo, head of the Hydrometeorological Research Department at Madagascar's National Hydrometeorological Service, Report informs.
Speaking at the event themed "Water for Climate: Integrating Water Solutions into NDCs and NAPs,” held within the framework of COP29, Rakotomavo emphasized the crucial role of integrated water resources management (IWRM) in reducing the impacts of climate change and ensuring adaptation.
"To achieve the 1.5-degree target, it is essential to focus on water resources, especially freshwater ecosystems," Rakotamavo stressed. "These ecosystems have tremendous potential for both mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts. Unfortunately, their significance is often underappreciated."
The official specifically highlighted the vital importance of ecosystems like peatlands in carbon storage. "Despite covering only 3% of the Earth's land surface, peatlands store twice as much carbon as all forests combined. Protecting such water-rich ecosystems is crucial for reaching the 1.5-degree target," he noted.
Rakotamavo also acknowledged the significance of open data and resources provided by UNEP and other international organizations in strengthening countries' efforts to protect ecosystems.
According to him, while IWRM is not a new concept and has been applied for over 20 years, wider implementation and integration into national climate change strategies remain essential.
"Scaling up this approach globally will enable sustainable and effective outcomes for both people and nature," he concluded.