Honduras faces significant environmental challenges, with deforestation, rising temperatures, and extreme weather events threatening both ecosystems and communities.
As part of the global society’s commitment to sustainability, the Association for a More Just Society (ASJ) has called on the Honduran government to strengthen its climate strategies through transparency, inclusivity, and institutional reform. Ensuring that climate action aligns with justice and strong institutions is vital for the country’s ability to meet its commitments under the global goals.
At COP28, Honduras pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 16% through renewable energy expansion, improved energy efficiency, and increased electromobility. Additionally, the National Forest Restoration Strategy aims to restore 1.3 million hectares of forests by 2030. However, the ASJ highlights the gap between policy commitments and implementation, particularly given the annual deforestation rate of over 50,000 hectares between 2013 and 2021, as reported by the Forest Conservation Institute.
To bridge this gap, ASJ urges the government to adopt a comprehensive and transparent climate strategy. This requires active involvement from Indigenous communities, private enterprises, and civil society organisations to ensure sustainable and inclusive environmental policies.
Economic equality and sustainable development through international cooperation
International partnerships play a crucial role in economic equality and environmental protection. In December 2023, the European Union and the Honduran government signed a €16 million agreement to support forest restoration. This investment aligns with sustainable development objectives and highlights the necessity of global collaboration in tackling climate change.
Despite these efforts, Honduras remains vulnerable to environmental degradation due to weak governance structures and corruption. ASJ actively works to increase transparency by monitoring government accountability and pushing for effective policy implementation in critical sectors like education, health, and environmental protection.
Science, community empowerment, and the future of climate action
The role of science in guiding sustainable policies cannot be overstated. ASJ’s research-driven approach ensures that climate strategies are based on data and long-term projections. In the education and health sectors, ASJ’s Transformemos Honduras initiative demonstrates the power of community-driven oversight, with 150 community auditors ensuring accountability in schools and healthcare facilities.
Applying this model to environmental governance could strengthen peace and justice in Honduras. By fostering grassroots engagement, the country can build resilience against climate threats while promoting economic equality and social inclusion.
Global society’s role in achieving climate justice
Honduras' environmental challenges are not isolated; they reflect broader struggles faced by many nations in the global society. Climate action, economic equality, and strong institutions are interconnected, requiring a unified global response. By addressing corruption, improving transparency, and prioritising sustainability, Honduras can set a precedent for other developing nations.
To truly drive world changes, continued international cooperation, civil society engagement, and investment in sustainable solutions are essential. Strengthening governance and community-led accountability mechanisms will be pivotal in ensuring that Honduras meets its climate and environmental goals.
For further reading on global climate initiatives and sustainable development, explore organisations such as Transparency International and United Nations Climate Action.
More information: https://www.asj-us.org/