Fairtrade International commended UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for his commitments at COP29 in Baku, addressing climate change, especially its impact on agriculture. The Prime Minister emphasized the UK’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly by 2035, while Fairtrade advocates for linking trade strategies to climate justice to support farmers effectively.
Fairtrade International has expressed its support for UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer following his participation in COP29, a pivotal global climate event in Baku, Azerbaijan, where he communicated critical governmental environmental commitments. During his address, Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the UK’s dedication to addressing the climate crisis, particularly its impact on agricultural supply chains including the cocoa sector, which continues to face challenges due to adverse weather linked to global warming. Despite the importance of the event, it faced controversy, especially following Argentina’s announced withdrawal from negotiations amidst reports of potential shifts in US climate policy under the next president-elect. Starmer, during a press conference, highlighted the UK’s strategic aim to align its greenhouse gas emissions with the Paris Agreement goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius, pledging a reduction of at least 81% from 1990 levels by 2035. Fairtrade International has underscored the necessity for global strategies that support farmers in combating climate change challenges. Alexander Carnwath, Head of Public Affairs at Fairtrade Foundation, welcomed the UK’s renewed commitment to climate leadership, urging the government to integrate its trade strategies with climate justice initiatives to benefit farmers effectively. The organization advocates for policies that ensure farmers receive fair prices for their products, which is essential for promoting sustainable practices within global supply chains.
The topic of climate change remains a pressing global concern, profoundly affecting various sectors, particularly agriculture. The COP29 event serves as an international platform where leaders converge to discuss and commit to actions addressing climate challenges. The UK has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a leadership role in tackling climate issues, while Fairtrade International highlights the intersection of climate action and trade policies to support farmers who are increasingly vulnerable to environmental changes.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s engagement at COP29 is a significant reaffirmation of the UK’s commitment to combat climate change. Fairtrade International’s response emphasizes the urgent need for the UK Government to align its trade policies with climate justice, advocating for fair compensation for farmers to facilitate both resilience and effectiveness in climate action.
Original Source: www.confectioneryproduction.com
