Welcome to the Climate Change Corner, a new column dedicated to raising awareness, providing education, and inspiring action on one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change. As the impacts of climate change become increasingly evident, it is crucial for individuals, communities, and businesses in Lesotho to stay informed and engaged. Our goal is to offer you valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories to help you understand and address the challenges posed by climate change.
Why Climate Change Matters
Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a global challenge that affects every aspect of our lives. From extreme weather events and rising temperatures to shifts in agricultural productivity and biodiversity loss, the consequences of climate change are far-reaching. In Lesotho, communities are already experiencing the impacts, making it essential for us to take action now. The Climate Change Corner aims to be your trusted source of information and support, helping you navigate this complex issue.
What’s in store for you:
Each week, the Climate Change Corner will bring you a diverse range of content designed to inform, educate, and inspire.
This week we discuss Why Climate Action Has Become A Strategic Imperative
Climate action is no longer viewed as solely an environmental concern but as a critical strategic imperative that intersects with economic, social, regulatory, and technological factors. Organizations that proactively address climate change are better positioned to navigate risks, capitalize on opportunities, and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient global future. Some of the key reasons why addressing climate change has become a strategic priority include:
Economic Risks and Opportunities: Climate change poses significant economic risks, including damage to infrastructure, disruptions to supply chains, and increased costs associated with extreme weather events. On the flip side, there are opportunities for economic growth through the development and deployment of clean technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable practices.
Global Security Concerns: Climate change can exacerbate existing social, political, and economic tensions, leading to conflicts over resources such as water and land. It can also contribute to the displacement of communities due to sea-level rise and extreme weather events, creating potential sources of conflict. Addressing climate change is seen as crucial for global stability and security.
Regulatory and Legal Pressures: Governments worldwide are implementing and tightening regulations to reduce GHG emissions and promote sustainable practices. Companies that fail to adapt to these regulations may face legal challenges, reputational damage, and increased operating costs. Proactive climate action can help organizations stay ahead of regulatory requirements.
Investor Expectations: Investors are increasingly considering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors when making investment decisions. Companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and climate action are more likely to attract investment, while those perceived as high carbon emitters may face financial risks.
Brand Reputation and Consumer Preferences: Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, and they are more likely to support companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Conversely, businesses that are perceived as environmentally irresponsible may face reputational damage and a decline in consumer trust.
Physical Risks to Assets: Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and changing climate patterns pose physical risks to assets such as buildings, infrastructure, and agricultural land. Companies and governments must adapt to these changes to protect their investments and ensure long-term resilience.
Innovation and Technological Advancements: The transition to a low-carbon economy requires innovation and the development of new technologies. Businesses that invest in research and development of sustainable technologies are likely to gain a competitive edge and position themselves as leaders in their industries.
Insurance Industry Impact: Climate-related risks are increasingly affecting the insurance industry. As the frequency and severity of extreme weather events rise, insurance companies may face greater liabilities. This can lead to increased insurance premiums, reduced coverage, or challenges in securing insurance for high-risk assets.
CASE STORY: SMEs & Farmers’ Cooperatives in Sierra Leone
CONTEXT & CHALLENGES
In Sierra Leone, a combination of factors has led to an increase in crop failures, more intense rainfalls, decreased water quality, greater burden of infectious disease, coastal infrastructure damage, and various other climate-related losses. These, however, are not just risks but very strong reasons to invest in climate adaptation strategies now.
As ESG (environmental, social and governance) standards continue to develop in a climate adaptation context, it is important that Sierra Leone does not get left behind. As an ESG investment destination, the country has a significant opportunity to take the lead. On the onset of UNIDO’s intervention in Sierra Leone, it was observed that Sierra Leonean MSMEs, farmers and farmers’ cooperatives had not yet implemented standards such as ISO 9001:2015 (the core quality management standard), ISO 22000 (food safety management) and GLOBALG.A.P. (a standard for good agricultural practices that also considers welfare and hygiene of farmers and quality and safety improvement of crops).
In Sierra Leone, no company was certified on ISO 9001:2015, ISO 22000 or GLOBALG.A.P. This was mainly due to the following:
» Low awareness about ISO standards and certifications related to ESG.
» Non-availability of consultants/implementers, trainers and auditors in the country.
INTERVENTION
UNIDO assisted in creating awareness among SMEs and farmers’ cooperatives regarding the importance and benefits of implementing these standards. Awareness and capacity building trainings with the engagement of the public and private sectors were conducted through a call for interested SMEs to participate in Technical Assistance Programmes (TAPs).
From the 62 applications received from different SMEs, seven SMEs were selected for technical support to implement ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 standards. Local trainers were supported and engaged to implement these standards along with international experts.
Similarly, engagement of farmers’ cooperatives started and after a thorough evaluation of the applications received in the call for proposals, four cooperatives in different districts of Sierra Leone for cocoa and cassava value chains were selected for the implementation of GLOBALG.A.P.
IMPACT & RESULTS
The adoption of ISO 9001, ISO 22000, and GLOBALG.A.P. is a strategic step towards sustainability, aligning with ESG goals and addressing climate change challenges. In addition to enhancing operational efficiency and product quality, these standards also contribute to the development of a more resilient, responsible, and sustainable business ecosystem. SMEs and agricultural value chains are increasingly recognizing the importance of ESG factors, and these standards play a crucial role in ensuring a sustainable future and aiding in the effort to mitigate climate change impacts.
This project is part of the West Africa Competitiveness Programme (WACOMP), implemented by UNIDO and funded by the European Union (EU).
In the upcoming issue, we get to know more about CONCEPTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION
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