BMKG Head Warns Climate Change can Disrupt Fair Access to Water Resources

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Head of the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) Dwikorita Karnawati warned that climate change can disrupt water justice, fair access to water resources, which is one of the most basic human rights.

Speaking at a panel discussion at the Indonesian Pavilion at COP28 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, on Friday, Karnawati stated that climate change has intensified the strain on water resources, leaving global food production regions susceptible to disruption, according to a press release issued by the Indonesian Pavilion at COP28.

Karnawati underlined the impact of extreme weather and climate-related disasters that are most felt by people in developing and island countries. Hence, capacity building initiatives are crucial, particularly in the areas of science and technology, finance, governance, and management.

She expressed hope that the upcoming World Water Forum in Bali, taking place in 2024, would help to bridge the capacity gaps between nations and generate tangible solutions to combat the threat of climate change on water resources.

Convening every three years, the World Water Forum has selected Indonesia as the host country for its 10th edition, held concurrently with the World Water Council.

Senior Advisor to the Minister of Public Works and Public Housing, Maulidya Junica, emphasized that the management of water resources is not merely a technical challenge but also a political one, necessitating its elevation to a top policy priority.

The World Water Forum meeting will be attended by decision makers, researchers, environmentalists, and the public, including the younger generation.

"This is the largest meeting of parties related to water resources," Junica stated.

Deputy for Coordination of Environmental and Forestry Management, Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Nani Hendriati, stated that the World Water Forum is expected to be able to respond to the challenge of providing clean water for shared prosperity.

Hendriati affirmed that the theme of the 10th World Water Forum "Water for Shared Prosperity" is very relevant to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially number 6 to guarantee access to clean water and sanitation for all.

"Therefore, this forum encourages countries around the world to place water-related issues at the center of the global agenda," Hendriati stated.

Results of the 10th World Water Forum will be outlined in the Bali Declaration as a form of joint commitment to create policies related to clean water and sanitation.

ANTARA

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