Iran Proposes Regional Parliamentary Agency on Climate Change in Kish Island
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Chairwoman of the Environmental Committee of the Parliament of Iran Somayeh Rafiei advocated for a regional parliamentary agency on climate change, with Kish Island envisioned as the focal point to address the escalating impact of climate change in the Persian Gulf Region.
Discussing the severe impact of climate change in the Persian Gulf Region in an interview with the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Rafiei highlighted the escalating issue of sand and dust storms as one of the most significant impacts of climate change in the region.
The arid and desert-like environment of the Persian Gulf Region makes it particularly prone to these storms. Droughts, intensified by climate change, contribute to dry and loose soil that can be easily lifted by strong winds, causing soil erosion and degrading agricultural land.
"As the phenomenon affects the whole region and not just Iran, we need to cooperate with neighboring countries," stated Rafiei. She emphasized the necessity for joint efforts to reduce and adapt to the impact of climate change, leading to her call for a parliamentary climate change agency in the region to coordinate between different parliaments.
Addressing the health risks posed by dust storms, especially to those with respiratory conditions, Rafiei mentioned parliamentary actions to ensure that people suffer less. Initiatives include the introduction of monitoring and early warning systems.
"We need to go beyond statements about climate change with colorful and attractive slogans at international conferences to real concrete action," Rafiei emphasized. She stressed the importance of an international approach within the Persian Gulf region and more broadly across the Middle East and North Africa.
Proposing a concrete step towards cooperation, Rafiei suggested the establishment of a regional parliamentary agency on climate change. The focus would be on monitoring dust storms and developing common cross-border laws and policies.
Kish Island, located in the Persian Gulf and known for frequent dust storms, is proposed as the central location for this agency. The island also boasts rich biodiversity, including a unique coral reviving site. Rafiei sees Kish Island as a strategic hub for addressing the shared concerns of the region and fostering meaningful international cooperation on climate change.