The sensitivity of the Caspian Sea to the impacts of climate change is observed every day, said Nigar Arpadarai, UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP29 Azerbaijan, Report informs.
Arpadarai made the statement at the forum titled "The Caspian Sea and Sustainable Development: Environmental Protection," held within the framework of COP29.
She emphasized the vital importance of the Caspian Sea for Azerbaijan and the region.
"The Caspian Sea is the largest natural resource for the littoral states, supporting our biodiversity, economy, and communities," Arpadarai stated. "On one hand, the Caspian Sea serves as a transportation hub, forming a part of several international transport routes. On the other hand, it is a source of biodiversity for the surrounding countries and a crucial component of their climate systems and ecosystems."
Arpadarai also touched upon the vulnerability of the Caspian Sea's ecological balance due to its nature as a closed sea. "In the context of COP29, there are global, regional, and national agendas. There is an opportunity for the countries around the Caspian Sea to unite, establish a common vision, and define a climate agenda," she added.
"If we do everything right, we will not only positively impact the climate and environment but also the economy. The role of non-state actors, including universities, is vital in developing sustainable solutions that will help achieve climate resilience for the Caspian Sea," Arpadarai concluded.