Florença, Amazonian City, Presents Its Ambitious Climate Action Plan with the Support of the Global Covenant of Mayors

 

Florencia (Colombia), December 6, 2023 – Today, the city of Florencia, the most populous in the Colombian Amazon presented its groundbreaking Climate Action Plan (CAP) at a prominent event. The initiative, developed with technical support from ICLEI Colombia and coordination from the Colombian Federation of Municipalities and the Colombian Association of Capital Cities, signifies a significant commitment to sustainability and the fight against climate change.

Mayor Luis Antonio Ruiz Cicery expressed gratitude to the Global Covenant of Mayors and ICLEI for their fundamental support that has allowed Florencia to advance in its environmental commitment. In his statement, the mayor encouraged other cities in the Colombian Amazon to join the GCoM, urging them to work on mitigating and adapting to climate change in their respective regions.

Florencia, as the largest Amazonian city in Colombia, stands out not only for its environmental commitment but also for leading this effort in a region of great ecological importance. This milestone reinforces Florence’s position as a benchmark in protecting the natural environment and promoting sustainable practices in the Colombian Amazon.

 

Context of the CAP and its Relevance:

• Colombia has committed to reducing 51% of its emissions by 2030, according to the Nationally Determined Contribution.
• Caquetá has undergone a process of occupation marked by agricultural, forestry, and urban development activities.
• Florencia reflects unplanned urban development, with 60% of its population in the urban area.
• The city consolidates itself as an urban center and intermodal node of the Colombian Amazon.
• Its history of hosting vulnerable populations imposes the need for multisectoral actions.
• The region is vital for climate balance, with the mandate to protect and revitalize its environmental assets and ecosystem services.

 

Vision 2050:

Florencia aspires to be a benchmark in sustainable development and carbon neutrality, integrating conservation and a competitive circular economy. The city will focus on climate change management and social inclusion, demonstrating socioecological transformations for human well-being and a resilient environment.

 

Objectives:

• Objective 2026: Establish emissions monitoring systems and strengthen low-carbon development in key sectors with a 20% reduction.
• Objective 2030: Reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions by 50%, boosting competitiveness and low-carbon development, with active community participation in sustainability.
• Objective 2049: Achieve a sustainable and carbon-neutral Florencia, with integrated management of biodiversity, water security, and a circular economy.

The Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy in Latin America celebrates Florencia – Caquetá’s commitment and reaffirms its commitment to supporting cities in the region on their journey toward sustainability and climate resilience.

 

About the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy

The Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy is the world’s largest alliance of municipalities and cities committed to leading the fight against climate change and promoting sustainable energy. In Latin America, more than 650 municipalities are committed to the alliance. The mission of the Global Covenant of Mayors is to drive resilience to climate challenges, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure equitable access to sustainable energy.