2023 Climate and Conflict Convening
Partner
Foundation House
Location
Greenwich, CT
Date
Sept 2023
SDG’s Addressed:
Following the success of Climate and Conflict in 2022, The Peace Department continued the event series in 2023, kicking off New York Climate Week.
Centered on philanthropy, impact, environmental health, and community well-being, the Second Annual Climate and Conflict Convening showcased further exploration of climate effects exacerbating conflict, climate migration, impact investing, and systemic challenges and solutions to climate change, as well as the role of art and faith in driving climate action.
Demonstrating the connection between climate change & conflict for the State of the Problem panel, Natalia Alvarez de Jesus, Program Officer for The Peace Department, highlighted the impact of climate migration on Puerto Rico and the urgent need for improved infrastructure post-Hurricane Maria. Ulrich Eberle from the International Crisis Group discussed how climate change exacerbates conflicts in South Sudan and stressed the importance of early warning systems. Emre Eren from Bankers Without Boundaries addressed challenges in impact investing, advocating for blended finance structures to reduce risk and attract private investors. Nick Smoot, Founder and CEO of Innovation Collective, promoted a shift from individual thinking to group thinking, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in solving global challenges.
For the solution-forward discussion, Tahani Abu Daqqa showcased plans for a 6.5 MW solar field in Khan Yunis, Gaza, achieved through cross-border collaboration between Palestinian and Israeli organizations, demonstrating how sustainability can foster cooperation. Patrick Nzitunga from Gigawatt Global presented a model using East Africa’s energy facilities to drive agricultural projects, community empowerment, and regional trade, aiming to boost economic growth and stability. Dr. Martin Waistain highlighted Foundation House’s first activist residency, a program focusing on decarbonization and climate justice through innovative financing and community engagement. Alejandro Duran introduced "Washed Up," an art project that uses Caribbean trash to raise awareness about plastic pollution. Bishop Rivera discussed the role of faith-based communities in climate action through "creation care."
The event emphasized the critical role of community-driven solutions, cross-sector collaboration, and innovative approaches in addressing the climate-conflict nexus.
