Four facts you need to know on World Climate and Climate Change Adaptation Day

According to the latest IPCC assessment report (AR6), there is a possibility that global warming will exceed 1.5°C during the 21st century. This begs the question: Are we preparing adequately? It is crucial to act now by taking measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changing climate.

Here are 4 facts you should know in the context of World Climate and Climate Change Adaptation Day. 

• Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
  

In the context of climate change, mitigation means implementing policies for reduce greenhouse gas emissions (contributing to global warming) and improve drains (which absorb these gases from the atmosphere) (IPCC, 2007).

While adaptation refers to initiatives and measures aimed at reducing the vulnerability of natural and human systems to the actual or expected effects of climate change. There are several types of adaptation, for example: anticipatory and reactive, private and public, autonomous and planned (IPCC, 2007).

For example, a mitigation measure is the transition to renewable energies to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and an adaptation measure is the construction of structures to protect communities against floods and other extreme weather events. Since both are necessary to reduce risks to the effects of climate change, in many cases they are complementary measures.

• Why adaptation is important in Peru 

According to the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative, in 2021 Peru was ranked 91st among the world's most vulnerable countries. countries most vulnerable to climate changewhich indicates a medium risk to its effects. This is why adaptation measures are vital to protect the most vulnerable communities, preserve ecosystems and minimize economic losses. 

• Mitigation actions in Peru

According to the Mitigation Measures Catalog (2020) prepared by the Peruvian Ministry of Environment, there are 62 actions aimed at mitigating our greenhouse gas emissions in response to climate change. These measures are divided into Energy (38 actions), Industrial Processes and Product Use (2 actions), Agriculture (6 actions), Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry (8 actions) and Waste (8 measures). Peru currently has 65 mitigation actions, having increased 1 action for the Industrial Processes and product use sector and 2 for Land use, land use change and forestry, according to the Progress Report on Adaptation and Mitigation Targets (2023).  

These actions will allow us to reduce 40% of our emissions greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 (El Peruano Newspaper, 2023).

• What can all citizens do?

On World Climate and Climate Change Adaptation Day, it is essential not only to reflect on the challenges posed by climate change, but also to commit to concrete actions to mitigate its impacts. 

We all have a crucial role to play in this task, and reducing our carbon footprint is the first step in minimizing our impact on the climate. Using the Dragonfly calculatorBy using the "Emissions Reduction Tool", you will not only be able to assess your emissions, but also discover how you can reduce them through simple actions, such as choosing to cycle instead of driving or cutting down on meat consumption. 

Every action counts in the fight against climate change and in this way we are taking a step towards a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet and the next generations. Join us on this weather day and make a difference!