Baku: The consequences of climate change are being felt all over the world, Rashad Ismayilov, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, said during the session titled 'Strategic Environmental Assessment Tool for Achieving Climate Targets in Urban Planning' held within the framework of WUF13, APA reports.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, he emphasized that these processes must remain a constant focus. Ismayilov noted that urban areas are increasingly exposed to the impact of climate change. He highlighted that the development of cities and ensuring settlement should not be planned solely on economic indicators. Instead, urban planning must incorporate principles of environmental protection, social welfare, and climate resilience. This approach is an essential requirement today.

He further elaborated on specific impacts of climate change, including drought, water scarcity, extreme natural events, forest fires, floods, rising sea levels, reduction of inland water bodies, melting glaciers, land degradation, and biodiversity loss. These examples illustrate the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address climate challenges globally.