Friday, May 16, 2008

A Crisis Crossing Continents

By: Angus MacDonald, Stakeholder Forum

The Mediterranean Sea, bordering three continents and 21 countries, between Europe, Africa and the Middle East, is a sea under pressure from climate change. It is a crucial part of the world that finds itself in the frontline of the battle against the challenges climate change poses. A rise of between 2.2 and 5.1ºC is predicted by 2100, while precipitation is expected to fall by up to 27%. The Mediterranean ecosystem is being damaged and water and soil is being adversely affected. The interlinked issues of drought, desertification, climate change, water scarcity are combining to paint an alarming picture of future life in the Mediterranean.

These crucial issues were highlighted and debated at a side event organised by Hellenic Ministry for Environment, Physical Planning and Public Works, MAP/UNEP, GWP-MED and MIO-ESCDE yesterday afternoon. It was stressed that an effective response to climate change was required. Professor Dali Najeh, Director General of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development for Tunisia, painted a worrying picture as he spoke of an “unprecedented challenge to water management in Arab countries” as water quality and quantity was expected to reduce. Slovenia on behalf of the EU stressed the “great importance” of preserving the Mediterranean area and hoped that regional measures would be taken to complement global efforts to fight climate change.

The Mediterranean, already under pressure, is not in a fit state to cope with additional climate change pressures. Early action is required and country specific adaptations should be taken at a local level. Strengthening environmental policies, increasing the resilience of ecosystems, integrated coastal zone management across the region and capacity building would all help to lessen the worst effects of climate change. The debate at this side event was a step in the right direction in giving due attention to this vulnerable region.