Indigenous Leaders Warn Against Exploiting Lands for Clean Energy Transition
At a global conference in Santa Marta, Colombia, Indigenous leaders voiced concerns about the potential exploitation of their lands under the guise of transitioning to clean energy. The conference, which focuses on phasing out fossil fuels, highlighted the risks of renewable energy projects encroaching on Indigenous territories. Leaders emphasized that while the shift from fossil fuels is necessary, it should not come at the expense of well-protected natural environments. The event, attended by representatives from over 50 countries, aims to foster a coalition for ambitious climate action, independent of the UN's processes, which have been criticized for being influenced by industry lobbyists.