Connecting mountains at COP27

UNFCCC COP27, taking place in Sharm el-Sheikh (Egypt) from the 6^th to the 18^th of November, is a great opportunity to join forces with other regions of the world to inform and reflect on the stronger impact of climate change in mountain areas. Alongside representatives of the Hindu Kush Himalaya, the Carpathians and the Andes, and the Chair of the Alpine Climate Board Helmut Hojesky, Secretary General Alenka Smerkolj spoke at a side event on collaboration and partnerships across mountain ranges.

The event was jointly hosted at the Cryosphere Pavilion by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Permanent Secretariat. Concrete possibilities for cooperation were discussed further in numerous bilateral meetings.

“The Alpine Convention is addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation as an integrated, transversal topic with cross-sectoral, cross-national, and cross-organisational partnerships. We want to accelerate progress and leverage, spark new ideas, help prevent potential conflicts and produce more efficient policies. We are encouraging all to do the same!” emphasised Alenka Smerkolj in her high-level statement.