How is climate change affecting Cobija?
Climate change is having a significant impact on Cobija, the capital of Bolivia's Pando department, through a combination of extreme weather events and environmental degradation. In particular, climate change is intensifying irregular precipitation patterns.
In February 2024, the Acre River in Cobija exceeded its historical maximum, flooding 16 urban areas and three rural communities. At the same time, Cobija has experienced severe droughts, underlining the region's vulnerability to water scarcity.
This combination of flooding and droughts has led to major challenges in ensuring access to safe water in Cobija.
Additionally, the region suffers from extreme air pollution due to forest fires, with air quality reaching hazardous levels.
These compounded impacts of climate change are disrupting agriculture, affecting livelihoods, and posing serious health risks to the local population. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events calls for urgent action for adaptation and resilience-building measures to safeguard the community's well-being.
What action are you taking to address climate change?
The Arroyo Bahía Conservation Area, established in 2022, protects 3,623 hectares of forests and critical water sources. It serves to preserve biodiversity and maintain water quality for over 80,000 people in Cobija and surrounding communities.
As part of UN-Habitat’s Resilient Settlements for the Urban Poor () programme, Cobija is participating in the project "Accelerating the Implementation of the Paris Agreement by Building for Climate Resilience of the Urban Poor". This initiative focuses on strengthening the policy environment and developing bankable projects to support vulnerable urban communities to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Cobija is also involved in the implementation of an early warning system covering areas in Bolivia, Brazil, and Peru. This system aims to improve preparedness and disaster response by providing timely information to communities about climate-induced disasters, such as floods and droughts.
To respond to climate-related health challenges, Cobija has expanded its community health worker programmes. This initiative maintains access to healthcare services during extreme weather events, especially for vulnerable populations who may not receive necessary medical services due to disruptions caused by climate change.
What are the benefits? Why is it important?
Investing in climate resilience reduces the risk of displacement, protects homes and infrastructure, minimizes disruptions to transportation, water supply, and energy systems, and lowers the cost of disaster recovery.
Addressing climate change in Cobija isn't just an environmental necessity. It's a lifesaving, economy-stabilizing, and health-protecting priority. It ensures that future generations can thrive in a safer, greener, and more resilient Amazonian region.