Various countries and locations have declared a climate emergency. However, the term is not clearly defined, nor is there a consensus regarding its definition. The expression refers to a regulatory instrument to declare a dangerous situation or climate disaster which requires immediate action and authorizing public authorities to make decisions and take the necessary measures to address it.
Therefore, climate emergency can be understood as a declaration in reference to climate change, which expresses the magnitude of the problem and the urgency of the solution before the damages are irreversible. It implies the need to recognize an extremely serious situation and humanity’s responsibility, as well as the immediate action.
Approximately 900 national, provincial, and local jurisdictions around the world have declared a climate emergency. Climate Emergency Declaration and Mobilisation In Action (CEDAMIA), an Australian organization that works to declare a climate emergency around the world, has monitored and mapped the different approved initiatives. They can be seen on this Google map.
Finally, according to the specialists consulted for the development of this reflectary in Spanish, this is the term that the business sector uses the most, and it helps companies assume responsibility. In other words, it keeps the private sector involved.