Climate change in the Democratic Republic of Congo: an urgent call to action
Published on November 16, 2023 by the World Bank, a National Climate and Development Report (CCDR) draws attention to the need for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to take urgent measures to face the challenges of change climatic. The report highlights the potentially disastrous consequences of this phenomenon on the country’s economy, the most vulnerable communities and the environment.
According to the report, if no action is taken, climate change could cause a significant loss in the DRC’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2050, ranging from 4.7% to 12.9%. This loss would disproportionately impact the poorest populations, particularly women and socially excluded groups. In addition, nearly 16 million additional people could fall into poverty by 2050.
However, the DRC has natural resources essential to the fight against climate change, such as its forests, its fresh water reserves and its minerals. The country therefore has the potential to become a major player in the fight against climate change and generate income through a green transition.
To achieve this, the World Bank recommends four priority areas for action: investing in smart and sustainable sectors, such as mining, hydropower and forest preservation; improve agricultural productivity to strengthen food security in the face of climate challenges; develop climate-resilient infrastructure and improve access to basic services; and finally, promote good governance and invest in human capital to reduce poverty and strengthen social inclusion.
The DRC also has significant forest cover which has a crucial impact on global ecosystem services. However, if these forests are not protected, they could become a net source of carbon, leading to an estimated $95.3 billion in carbon stock loss for the world.
Faced with these challenges, it is crucial that the DRC implement climate-resilient policies and investments, while strengthening its governance and its capacity to face the challenges of climate change.
In conclusion, the DRC must act quickly to adapt to the challenges of climate change. Implementing the World Bank’s recommendations would allow the country to become a major player in the fight against climate change while guaranteeing its economic resilience and the protection of the most vulnerable communities.