Advocates from Indigenous Communities Advocate for Increased Influence in Climate Change Mitigation at COP28 Conference

The 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) is currently underway in Dubai, and Indigenous leaders from Canada are making a significant impact. Historically, Indigenous voices have been excluded from conversations about climate change, but this is changing at COP28.

Indigenous leaders at the conference are advocating for a stronger voice in shaping global strategies to combat climate change. Karen Ogen, Chief Executive of the First Nations LNG Alliance, emphasized the need for careful consideration in navigating economic reconciliation and climate initiatives in Canada. Dane de Souza, a climate change policy advisor with the Métis National Council, emphasized that the impacts of climate change extend beyond material losses, affecting family gatherings, knowledge and memory transmission, lifestyle, existence, and enjoyment of life in Canada.

Myrle Ballard, director of Indigenous science at Environment and Climate Change Canada, emphasizes the importance of being the voice for the water and the land. Indigenous communities possess a wealth of traditional knowledge that enriches our understanding of sustainable practices and resilience. This knowledge is crucial in developing effective climate strategies.

The Assembly of First Nations has recently released a National Climate Strategy that outlines seven priority areas, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing Indigenous knowledge and ensuring preparedness for emergencies. Indigenous leaders are collaborating, sharing ideas, and discussing critical issues of environment, energy, and economic prosperity at COP28.

A tentative deal has been reached at COP28 to create the world's first climate damage fund. The fund is designed to assist developing countries in coping with climate change impacts. Although Canadian communities may not qualify for this fund, Indigenous leaders stress the importance of having their voices heard. Ignoring the voices of Indigenous leaders not only perpetuates historical injustices but also risks incomplete and less effective solutions in the face of our planet's climate crisis.

Raylene Whitford, a director with the Canadian Sustainability Standards Board, expressed pride in seeing so many Indigenous voices at COP28. Indigenous voices bring to light the nuanced impacts of climate change on cultural identity, intertwined with the very ecosystems they inhabit. Recognizing the unique perspectives of Indigenous leaders is a crucial step toward more effective climate strategies.

The indigenous leader advocating for a stronger voice in climate change action during COP28 in Dubai is not named in the provided search results. However, their presence and advocacy are making a significant impact, ensuring that Indigenous perspectives and experiences contribute to the global conversation on loss and damage.