Co-organized by the University of Magallanes and the energy generating company EDF Chile, local and national academics and experts gathered to analyze the evidence surrounding the phenomenon of climate change, its impacts, and mitigation actions to reduce its effects.
Climate change is the most significant challenge facing humanity today. In recent years, the world has witnessed its effects, which have led to an increase in atmospheric temperatures, more intense storms, and violent and unpredictable weather events.
With the aim of discussing climate change, raising awareness of its global and regional impacts, and analyzing public attitudes towards this phenomenon, the University of Magallanes (UMAG) and EDF Chile - a subsidiary of the French state-owned Group (Électricité de France) and a global leader in low-emission energy generation - organized the seminar "Climate Change: Evidence, Perceptions, and Measures."
The event was attended by the regional director of Corfo, María José Navajas; the rector of the University of Magallanes, José Maripani; the CEO of EDF Chile, Joan Leal, and the general manager of H2V Magallanes AG, María Isabel Muñoz. In addition, prominent academics and experts, including professors from UMAG and its Faculty of Engineering; researchers from the Institute of Patagonia; from the GAIA Antarctic Research Center and the Chilean Antarctic Institute (INACH), who addressed the impact of climate change in the Magallanes Region.
José Maripani, rector of UMAG, stated that "today, at this seminar on climate change, we have the opportunity to explore solutions, share knowledge, and unite forces to address this global challenge. Our responsibility is immense, but together we can make a difference and work towards a sustainable future for generations to come." He added, "At the University of Magallanes, we are concerned about natural capital and how to ensure the sustainability and conservation of areas already dedicated to protection. Let's remember that these ecosystems serve as sensors for various disciplines of science to monitor the effects of climate change. We must work to promote prudent management of natural resources and ensure that developments are carried out in a fair balance with the ecosystem."
During the event, the exclusive results for Chile from the "International Observatory on Climate Change and Public Opinion" were also presented, a study developed by Ipsos Chile and commissioned by the EDF Group, which for the fourth consecutive year evaluates the perceptions and level of commitment of citizens from 30 countries regarding climate change. The presentation by Ipsos Chile revealed that eight out of ten Chileans believe that climate change is caused by human activity, placing Chile, along with Mexico, as one of the countries with the lowest skepticism regarding climate change. In this latest version of the study, the results indicate that concern about climate change is consistent among Chileans, although behind issues such as crime and the cost of living.
Joan Leal, CEO of EDF Chile, highlighted the importance of addressing climate change and emphasized that "EDF identifies climate change as the primary challenge of humanity and, therefore, the commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 is an integral part of its raison d'être. As EDF Chile, we are interested in promoting spaces for dialogue on climate change, involving various actors in society, with the aim of informing and raising awareness that this is a challenge that requires the effort of everyone: governments, companies, and citizens."
This activity was sponsored by the Chilean Antarctic Institute, Ipsos Chile, and the Trade Association of Green Hydrogen Producers and Derivatives of Magallanes (H2V Magallanes), established in March 2023 and counting EDF Chile as a founding partner.