Famed Climate Scientist and Advocate Saleemul Huq Passes Away, Leaving a Void in Climate Justice Advocacy
Image Source: BNN Breaking
Dhaka, Bangladesh – The world of climate science and climate justice has suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Saleemul Huq, the Director of the International Center for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. On October 28, 2023, Huq, a renowned expert in climate science and a vocal advocate for climate finance in developing countries, succumbed to a massive cardiac arrest in his Dhaka residence.
Saleemul Huq, a ‘Climate Revolutionary’
Huq’s contributions to the field of climate science and his relentless advocacy for climate justice have earned him a place among the world’s top scientists. In 2022, the prestigious journal Nature recognized him as a “climate revolutionary.” Huq’s work extended beyond his role as a climate scientist; he was also a leading voice from the Global South in various climate change discussions, including the critical discourse of climate justice.
An Ominous Warning from Climate Scientists
Before his passing, Saleemul Huq and a group of scientists co-authored a paper published in the journal BioScience on October 24, 2023. This paper sounded a clarion call to the world, citing alarming data regarding the planet’s vital signs. According to their analysis, 20 of the 35 vital signs used to track climate change, such as carbon dioxide emissions, sea level changes, and global tree cover loss, were at “record extremes.” The scientists painted a bleak picture, stating that “life on planet Earth is under siege,” and we have ventured into uncharted territory.
The warning underscores the increasing urgency of the climate crisis, as extreme weather events continue to escalate due to ongoing human activities and greenhouse gas emissions. The reports earlier this year highlighted July as the hottest month on record, possibly in “tens of thousands of years.”
Huq’s Profound Legacy
Saleemul Huq’s passing has left a significant void in the global climate community, particularly for the Global South. He was instrumental in the establishment of the historic Loss and Damage fund during the last Conference of Parties (COP27) in Glasgow, Scotland. This fund aims to address the negative consequences of climate change, providing support to countries facing rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and other climate-related challenges.
Harjeet Singh, head of global political strategy with Climate Action Network International, expressed his deep sadness and the profound loss of Huq. In a heartfelt tribute, Singh pledged to continue the fight for climate justice in honor of Huq’s legacy, carrying the torch forward with his guidance in spirit.
Huq’s pioneering work in adaptation and unwavering advocacy for loss and damage finance will forever be etched in the memories of those who worked alongside him. His impact on the climate community and his commitment to a more just and sustainable world will be remembered and celebrated.
Huq’s Hope for COP28
In a recent interview, Saleemul Huq expressed hope that COP28, the upcoming climate conference, would deliver significant progress, especially in critical areas such as adaptation and loss and damage. These issues hold immense importance for South Asian countries, including regions like the Sundarbans.
As the world mourns the loss of Saleemul Huq, his legacy serves as a poignant reminder that the fight for climate justice continues, and it is now our collective responsibility to champion this cause with even greater passion and determination. In the face of unprecedented climate challenges, we must honor his memory by taking swift and meaningful action to protect our planet and its most vulnerable communities.
Team Profile
- News Writer
- Harshit Tokas is a Political Science and International Affairs Post-Graduate with a passion for understanding and analyzing complex political landscapes. Skilled in research, data analysis, and policy development. Eager to contribute his knowledge and insights to drive positive change.
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