The challenges of climate change being faced by developing countries cannot be tackled overnight by political statements, the Ambassador of Mexico to Ghana, Mr Enrique Escorza, had said.
He said countries affected by climate change needed resources and finance and not criticism.
Mr Escorza made the call in an exclusive interview with the Ghanaian Times on Friday against the backdrop of the impact of climate change on developing countries.
He said Mexico, for instance, had developed an all-encompassing policy that involved everyone to deal with climate change.
According to Mr Escorza, it was not enough for other countries to criticise other nations, adding that Mexico was a responsible partner in the fight against the worst impact of climate change.
When asked about the criticism that Mexico had not done enough to address pollution, Mr Escorza said his country’s climate strategy was sustainable and inclusive.
He said it was not a crime for countries to take advantage of their natural resources such as oil and other resources, but was of the view that countries should take advantage of these resources responsibly.
Mr Escorza said his country was rebuilding new refineries, but at the same it was mindful of the environment.
The Ambassador advocated the inclusion of women and children in the fight against climate change “because they are often the worst victims of climate change.”
Mr Escorza said Mexico in 2012 became the first developing country to pass comprehensive climate change legislation.
“Mexico will peak its greenhouse gas emissions in 2026 to achieve its 22 percent reduction target, with a long-term goal of halving emissions by 2050 relative to 2000 levels
With international support, it could reduce its GHG emissions by 36 per cent and black carbon by 70 per cent by 2030, and the first country to include a comprehensive adaptation component in its intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC),” he said.
Mr Escorza said Mexico aimed at reducing by 50 per cent the number of towns considered “most vulnerable” to climate impacts, while also preventing new cities from entering this category.
He also mentioned his country will ensure the reduction of deforestation rates to zero by 2030, and protect strategic infrastructures while improving systems such as agriculture and the economy.
BY MALIK SULLEMANA
