Our Collective Vision for COP29 and Beyond
Racquel Moses UNFCCC Global Ambassador & Chief Executive Officer Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator
As representatives of the Caribbean, we gather with a shared purpose: to bring urgent, innovative, and effective solutions to the forefront of the global climate agenda. The Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA) stands committed to amplifying our region’s voice, shaping sustainable development, and fostering resilience in the face of climate change. Together, we have a unique opportunity at COP29 to highlight the actions, aspirations, and urgent needs of our communities as we work toward building a climate-smart Caribbean.
Empowering Decision-Making through the Climate Smart Map
One of the most powerful resources we bring to COP29 is the Caribbean Climate Smart Map, accessible at map.caribbeanaccelerator.org. This innovative tool is a cornerstone for informed decision-making and strategic planning across the Caribbean. By consolidating crucial data on climate impacts, financial gaps, and resilience-building efforts, the Map offers real-time insights into the challenges faced by our communities. We encourage all stakeholders—policymakers, funders, NGOs, and private sector leaders—to explore this resource and leverage its data to guide impactful actions. This map is more than just a tool; it’s a lifeline for building resilience, protecting livelihoods, and safeguarding our future.
Mobilizing Climate Finance for Caribbean Resilience
The reality of climate change in the Caribbean is already being felt with devastating force. Our region, home to some of the world’s most vulnerable nations, urgently requires funding to scale adaptation measures that can protect our communities. That’s why at COP29, we are prioritizing efforts to attract donors and funders committed to supporting climate initiatives in the Caribbean.
Mobilizing climate finance is not only essential for adaptation but also for creating opportunities for sustainable development. We call on our global partners to invest in the Caribbean’s climate resilience—to see it as a joint responsibility and a chance to support models of adaptation that can inspire action worldwide. Explore available Caribbean projects through the projects tab on the Caribbean Climate Smart Map, map.caribbeanaccelerator.org. Through these investments, we aim to build sustainable, climate-resilient infrastructure, fortify critical systems, and empower communities to thrive despite the challenges ahead.
Advocacy for the Loss and Damage Fund
Last year at COP28, we witnessed a historic milestone with the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund, securing over $700 million in pledges to support countries already experiencing severe climate impacts. However, this amount is just a fraction of the estimated $400 billion required annually to address global climate-related losses. For the Caribbean alone, the projected need stands at a minimum of $17 billion—an overwhelming figure that speaks to the immense funding gap that persists.
Recent events, such as the devastation brought by Hurricane Beryl, serve as a stark reminder of why this fund is essential. When a single storm can erase decades of progress in a matter of hours, we know that adequate, predictable funding is crucial for our survival. The Climate Smart Map highlights the vast needs of our communities, underscoring why we must achieve a fully funded and fully accessible Loss and Damage Fund. If you can, donate now to the Hurricane Beryl Caribbean Relief Fund and help bring hope and recovery to those in need. We owe it to our citizens to advocate for robust policies, expanded funding, and support mechanisms that can provide real relief and empower communities to recover, rebuild, and thrive.
Our Collective Vision for COP29 and Beyond
As we come together at COP29, let us keep the Caribbean’s vision at the forefront. This vision is one of a climate-resilient region where communities are not just surviving but thriving. We stand ready to innovate, and collaborate with all stakeholders who are committed to taking action. The Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator is here to facilitate partnerships, share resources, and support policies that protect and sustain our communities.
To our allies, funders, and fellow advocates, we invite you to join us on this path—to explore the Caribbean Climate Smart Map, invest in Caribbean climate resilience, and champion the full implementation of the Loss and Damage Fund. Together, we can ensure that the Caribbean not only withstands the impacts of climate change but emerges as a beacon of resilience and sustainable development for the world.
