High-level representatives from the eight nations that lie across the European Alps have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening climate resilience in the region, following talks at the 18th Alpine Convention Ministerial Conference in Slovenia on 22nd January.
Monaco’s delegation, led by Ambassador Anne Eastwood, joined representatives from seven other countries along the Alps, notably from Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Liechtenstein and Slovenia. The talks centered around the quality of life for residents in the mountain range, which covers around 200,000 square kilometers, and how it can be improved and managed at a time when the climate in the region is changing dramatically.
A key outcome of the conference was a pledge to step up coordinated efforts to protect the Alps from the escalating impacts of climate change. Discussions focused on sustainable living, disaster risk management and innovative policies to safeguard the region’s fragile ecosystems. The ministers also agreed on the need to facilitate greener lifestyles and reinforce cooperation on environmental protection.
Education was also a priority, with delegates adopting recommendations aimed at strengthening climate awareness through hands-on learning experiences. Monaco’s representatives, a delegation that included Ambassador Eastwood, Astrid Claudel from the Directorate of the Environment and Wilfrid Deri from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, highlighted the work of the Principality’s Department of Education, Youth and Sport, particularly in integrating climate-focused extracurricular activities.
Beyond policy commitments, ministers stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in translating recommendations into action. This was further discussed at an official dinner hosted by Slovenia’s Minister of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning, where leaders explored strategies for sustainable tourism, renewable energy and water management in the Alps.
With climate pressures mounting, the renewed commitment marks a decisive step toward ensuring a more sustainable and resilient future for one of Europe’s most vulnerable regions.
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Photo source: Government Communication Department