Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time. Many countries proactively address this global challenge to prevent future generations from facing irreversible changes. The Paris Agreement showed commitments by governments responding to the global outcry by youth to take tangible actions, not in the long term, but now. 

With rising temperatures, droughts, and desertification, Libya has been particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Additionally, climate change can be increasingly seen as a factor of instability and conflict, especially in relation to water scarcity in the region. Climate change has significant implications for the country's natural resources, including a decrease in drinkable water and soil for agriculture and public health and economic opportunities for Libya's mostly young population. Clearly, the country’s authorities, private sector and civil society must develop and implement a comprehensive climate action plan.

As part of its new Country Programme 2023-2025, UNDP stands ready to accompany the country mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. We are keen to accompany the Climate Change High Committee to develop Libya's first Nationally Determined Contribution. The plan should outline specific actions and policies to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change and prioritize actions most relevant to Libya's unique context, such as increasing the use of renewable energy, improving water security, and promoting sustainable green growth.

Supporting state institutions in accelerating energy transition through renewable energy is an economic opportunity to benefit society, the economy, and the environment. Renewable energy has become a cost-competitive alternative to fossil fuels that creates new job opportunities, improves health outcomes, and reduces inequalities. This energy transition is critical to addressing the challenges posed by climate change and holds significant potential to transform the country's economy for the better.

Enhancing water security is also a key focus under the Country Programme. One of the ways UNDP, together with Libyan institutions, supports the development of sustainable water management practices, including improving water infrastructure and implementing water conservation measures, is to ensure people in Libya have year-round access to safe, reliable, reliable, and uninterrupted water supply.

There are multiple issues Libya is facing today, and while the effects of climate change do not make the headlines, the impact on this and future generations will be devastating if we don't act now. Promoting sustainable development and greener growth fueled by clean, renewable energy is essential to ensure children born today benefit from the human right to clean water and have opportunities to live a long prosperous life. These initiatives will contribute to environmental sustainability, enhancing resilience to the effects of climate change while providing greener jobs and ensuring that we build a more sustainable and prosperous economy. This can also become a factor of political stability and an area where all Libyan can agree.