Ms. Erika Paredes, a globally acclaimed climate finance specialist and advocate, and the founder of Climate Solutions for All, visited KISS-DU on 25th and 26th November 2024. During her two-day visit, Ms. Paredes engaged with students, faculty, and research scholars to discuss critical issues such as climate finance, sustainable development, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge into climate action strategies. Her visit opened up important new possibilities for institutional exploration and collaborations.
On the first day, Ms. Paredes delivered a lecture titled “Climate Financing: Pathways to a Sustainable Future,” sharing her inspiring journey from her roots in a farming family in Ecuador to becoming a global climate advocate and Harvard graduate. The lecture was preceded lighting of lamp, symbolizing a collective commitment to sustainability. This set the tone for collaborative discussions on environmental challenges.
During her address, Ms. Paredes explored the potential of climate finance strategies to empower young leaders and Indigenous communities. She highlighted tools such as green bonds and debt-for-nature swaps, and discussed the impact of extreme weather events, economic disruptions, and their disproportionate effects on vulnerable populations. Emphasizing the emerging business potential in sustainability and the necessity for investment in climate action, she presented a balanced view of challenges and opportunities, urging stakeholders to align economic growth with environmental stewardship.
The second day, centered on thematic discussions between Ms. Paredes, faculty members, and research scholars. These discussions explored topics including ecotourism, climate finance, traditional medicinal plants, and ethnobotanical initiatives which included key themes like: Ecotourism in Tribal Areas, Climate Finance Initiatives, Traditional Medicinal Plants, and Renewable Energy Solutions. Ms. Erika also advocated for educating Indigenous communities on eco-friendly practices, such as using traditional leaves instead of plastics, and introducing renewable energy technologies like solar panels. These measures aim to preserve traditions while fostering sustainability.
During this session, PhD scholar Prakasini Naik presented her research on the therapeutic potential of Indigenous medicinal plants, incorporating traditional tribal practices. Emphasizing the importance of preserving this knowledge for beauty and skincare products, Erika appreciated the holistic approach of the research, which bridges traditional wisdom with modern science.
The discussions underscored the significance of integrating environmental, economic, and social dimensions into sustainable development strategies. The key takeaways included: Empowering Women in Climate Action, Ethnobotnical Gardens as Climate Solutions, and Renewable Energy Adoption.
Erika Paredes’s visit to KISS-DU was marked by insightful discussions on climate change, climate finance, and the role of Indigenous knowledge in fostering sustainable development.
The session concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks to the esteemed speaker and those who contributed in making it a success.
