Global Convention Underscores Impacts of Climate Change in Tibet

Chokyi, (L) researcher at the Environment and Development Desk of the Department of Information and International Relations, Central Tibetan Administration, addressing the convention in Palampur

Palampur: Impacts of climate change in Tibet and its consequences in the region was highlighted at a three-day 'Global Convention on Climate Change' held in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, from 30 May to 1 June 2008.

The convention was jointly organized by the World Council for Corporate Governance, World Environment Foundation and Institute of Directors, and was inaugurated by Professor Prem Kumar Dhumal, chief minister of Himachal Pradesh.

The conference aims to implement holistic approach for combating climate change, and to share experience of leading companies in adopting low carbon, low waste and low energy technologies.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prof. Prem Kumar Dhumal (2nd from right) presiding over the conference

The meeting offered an opportunity for professionals, academics, policy makers and civil society advocates from across India and abroad to mutually share their experiences and contribute collective wisdom to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Ms Chokyi and Ms Dolma Yangzom of Environment and Development Desk (EDD), Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) of the Central Tibetan Administration attended the convention.

Speaking on impacts of climate change in Tibet at the conference, a researcher at EDD, Chokyi, had drawn attention of participants to the consequences of climate change on the livelihood of millions of people in Tibet and neighboring countries.

The Tibetan Plateau has witnessed a sudden rise in temperature since the early 1970s. This has led to the receding of glaciers, the shrinking of lakes, and the drying up of permafrost, and many rivers. Altogether, these are a primary source of Asia's water systems. Abnormal weather and climate change has increased the frequency of landslides, causing disasters in the region. Glacial lake outbursts and floods have also increased in recent years. The impacts of climate change in Tibet could be particularly devastating for the livelihoods of downstream that heavily rely on the Tibetan water.

--Report filed by Environment & Development Desk of DIIR