Audubon delegation joins world leaders promoting climate action.
The National Audubon Society, the leading bird conservation organization in the Americas, will join world leaders at the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) to stress the need for nature-based climate solutions. The organizations delegation, consisting of CEO Elizabeth Gray, Vice President Of Climate Sarah Rose, Colombia Country Director for Audubon Americas Camilo Cardozo, and Chief Strategy Integration Officer Allison Vogt, aims to address the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. The National Audubon Society emphasizes that the conference plays a critical role in coordinating climate policy that affects communities on every level. Elizabeth Gray, the CEO of the National Audubon Society, stated that it is crucial to fight for outcomes that ensure the thriving of birds and communities.
According to Audubon scientists, critical bird habitats often coincide with key ecosystems that serve as natural carbon sinks and habitats for various species. To mitigate the effects of climate change and protect biodiversity, Audubon stresses the importance of strategically restoring and maintaining priority landscapes such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands. Protecting these habitats not only provides safe havens for birds and wildlife but also contributes to carbon reduction efforts.
To raise awareness about the effectiveness of nature-based solutions, Audubon will host a panel titled “Thriving Together: Resilience of Birds, Wetlands, and Communities Across the Americas” at the Nature Positive Pavilion. This panel will focus on the significance of wetlands in supporting people and wildlife in the face of climate change. Led by Dr. Elizabeth Gray, the panel will highlight sustainable wetland projects in Panama, Colombia, and the United States and discuss best practices that can be scaled up for maximum impact.
Audubons work extends across the Western Hemisphere, utilizing science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation efforts to advance nature-based solutions. Some of their projects include wetland restoration in Chicago, enhancing water quantity and quality for the Great Salt Lake, engaging in ambitious coastal restoration projects in Louisiana, and restoring marine-coastal ecosystems in Latin America and the Caribbean, where mangroves play a vital role.
The National Audubon Society is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to protecting birds and their habitats. With over 700 staff members and more than 1.5 million active supporters, Audubon strives to create a future where birds can thrive. Through on-the-ground conservation, partnerships with local communities, policy advocacy, and community building, Audubon aims to reverse the current trends of biodiversity loss and restore healthier bird populations. For more information, visit www.audubon.org. Media contact: Robyn Shepherd, robyn.shepherd@audubon.org.
Source: audubon.org
