Webinar World Water Day 2025, preserving our glaciers - Chile EN
Webinar World Water Day 2025, preserving our glaciers
In 2025, Chile and the Netherlands proudly celebrate 200 years of diplomatic relations, a testament to the enduring partnership and mutual respect between these two nations. As part of this special milestone, both countries came together to host a webinar in recognition of World Water Day March 22nd, addressing an issue of shared significance: the preservation of glaciers and water towers in the face of climate change. Chile, with its vast array of glaciers, and the Netherlands, located at the end of many glacial river systems, are acutely aware of the challenges posed by these changes.
Save our glaciers
The webinar served as an important platform to exchange knowledge,
deepen understanding, and promote solutions to counteract the impact
of glacial retreat.
The event featured an outstanding panel
of experts. Mrs. Silvia Saravia from the Economic Commission
for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) provided a
comprehensive overview of the situation across Latin America,
highlighting regional challenges and opportunities. Renowned
glaciologist Dr. Peter Kuipers Munneke offered a global
perspective, explaining the scientific realities of glacier dynamics
in a warming world. From Chile, Mr. Jorge Huenante of the
Ministry of Public Works shared efforts to monitor and
conserve the nation’s glaciers, while Ms. Constanza Espinosa
from the foundation Glaciares Chilenos detailed her
organization’s initiatives to raise awareness and foster a culture of
protection.
The participation of both ambassadors underscored
the importance of international collaboration.
Mrs. Elke Merks-Schaapveld, the Netherlands’ ambassador in
Chile, opened the webinar by emphasizing the necessity of
collective action to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate
change. Chile’s ambassador to the Netherlands, Mr. Jorge
Carvajal, closed the event by reaffirming the warm ties
between the two nations and their shared commitment to addressing
global water and climate challenges.
This initiative
demonstrates the profound value of bilateral cooperation in tackling
urgent global issues. By combining their strengths, Chile and the
Netherlands illustrate how international partnerships can lead to
actionable solutions and greater awareness. The preservation of
glaciers and water resources is not only a regional concern but a
global imperative—one that requires the joint efforts of governments,
organizations, and individuals.
As we commemorate this
bicentennial, let us also reflect on the responsibility we share to
protect our planet for future generations.
Together, through knowledge, collaboration, and unwavering commitment, we can ensure a more sustainable future.