The impact of the US economic blockade against Cuba on environmental management was denounced today by the Minister of Science, Technology and Environment (CITMA), Elba Rosa Pérez Montoya, speaking at the national event for World Environment Day, held in Ciego de Avila province.

She denounced that this economic, commercial and financial fence continues to be the main obstacle to the execution of the Economic and Social Development Plan until 2030, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations Organization.

The costs and losses associated with the economic impact in the environmental sphere are great, and access to new technologies and international financial funds is difficult, which complicates the solution and mitigation of environmental problems in the nation, she explained.

In adverse circumstances, Cuba works to promote its environmental agenda, based on a green recovery, supported by the will of the Government, and high-ranking policies and legal frameworks, she specified.

She added that another strength is the support of human capital, scientific capabilities and the potential of the country's natural resources.

This was reflected during the public consultation process of the new Natural Resources and Environment System Law, and the one carried out before the Stockholm +50 Conference, he explained.Pérez Montoya recognized the efforts of people and institutions that "have known how to grow in the face of limitations and propose new forms of action to protect our valuable natural resources and ecosystems."

The increase in the forest index by 31.8 percent, very close to the national potential; and the approval of 25 new protected areas, bringing the figure to 144, with unique values ​​of biodiversity and ecosystem goods and services, were among the achievements made in the country during the year 2021.

Likewise, new work projections were drawn up for the implementation of the State Plan for Confronting Climate Change until the year 2025 and the new cycle of the National Environmental Strategy, and the Strategy for the transition towards a circular economy was prepared and approved.

She highlighted an increase in prevention and environmental culture, through the Government Plan for the Prevention and Confrontation of Crimes and Illegalities that affect Forest Resources, Wild Flora and Fauna and other Natural Resources, with the coordination of the Ministry of the Interior.

Progress is also being made in the implementation of financial solutions to face the country's main environmental problems, such as a combined insurance policy, called Reverdesen, for producers whose farms meet categories in sustainable land management, she commented.

It is added to this the creation of the IRIS Foundation: United for Climate, whose fundamental mission is to contribute to confront climate change in Cuba and in the region, as an institution focused on attracting and channeling financial resources.

The CITMA Minister referred to the unequal distribution of wealth in the world and extreme poverty ─with an increase of one percent during the year 2021, according to the World Bank─ as an impediment to achieving a healthy environment.

The cost of living for the world's population has become more expensive and many families and communities living in vulnerable environments are currently facing great challenges to guarantee their subsistence: food security and access to drinking water and education and health services, she declared.