Fighting Climate Change

Long-Term Commitment to Climate Action

For decades, I have been deeply involved in the fight against climate change, dedicating myself to bridging the gap between scientific understanding and policy action. My efforts have included pivotal roles as Costa Rica’s Ambassador for Climate Change in key global climate negotiations, such as COP1 in Berlin, COP15 in Copenhagen, and COP21 in Paris. These roles often revealed the frustrating reality of inadequate global agreements. 

Given the scientific evidence and projections and despite the collaborative efforts of many, progress has often been dishearteningly slow, revealing a troubling disconnect between the severity of the climate emergency and the pace of international action. This persistent gap between what is needed and what has been achieved deepens my frustration and underscores the urgent need for more decisive action.

A Legacy of Regret and a Call to Action

Reflecting on these challenges, I feel a profound sense of regret over my generation’s shortcomings in tackling climate change. It pains me to acknowledge that we have not done enough to secure a sustainable future for the coming generations. I feel compelled to testify and explain these failures, but also to convey a message of hope.

There are many viable solutions available, both in the technical and community arenas, as well as within the private sector. The key is to focus on actions that offer synergistic benefits—solutions that we will never regret, such as promoting sustainable land-use practices, improving energy efficiency, and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Embracing these solutions and advocating for meaningful change is crucial. I write with a sense of urgency, because in spite of the missed opportunities, we can and should act right away to deploy the many solutions that already exist and have proven to work. While I can, I remain committed to the cause and hope that the younger generations are able to change course and avoid the same mistakes we made.

Want to read more about this?

Click on the buttons for relevant publications on this topic.

Read my other stories

chevron_right

Creating the Ministry of Environment and Energy

Discover how Costa Rica pioneered by giving nature political power and a cabinet level position.

chevron_right

Reorganizing Conservation and Biodiversity

Explore how Costa Rica replaced the traditional western view of conservation for a new and thriving model.

chevron_right

Ecological Economics

Discover how Costa Rica gave its forests economic value by implementing forest incentives.

chevron_right

Reversal of Deforestation and Forestry Development

How Costa Rica went from 26% forest coverage in the 1980’s to almost 60% in 2024, while driving sustainable economic prosperity.

chevron_right

Debt-swaps for Conservation

Learn about one of the most creative financial solutions implemented in the battle against climate change.

chevron_right

Climate Change

Reflect on the challenges and frustrations of global climate negotiations and the need for action.

keyboard_arrow_up