Dear [name of your MP]
I am writing to bring to your attention the critical issue of Loss and Damage and request that you do all you can to ensure the negotiations at COP28 produce a functioning international finance mechanism for Loss and Damage.
Loss and Damage refers to the unavoidable impacts of climate change, which many poor communities are ill-equipped to face. The recent droughts in East Africa and flooding in Pakistan are just a few examples of Loss and Damage and the crucial, and escalating, necessity of providing support to these communities. The effects of climate change are not just a distant possibility; they are destroying the lives and livelihoods of billions of people today.
Everybody is affected by the climate crisis, and yet its impacts are not shared equally. It is the poorest and most vulnerable communities who are suffering the worst impacts of climate change, despite having done the least to cause it. I believe that it is a fundamental principle of climate justice for these countries to be helped by those who bear a far greater responsibility for climate change. The British Government needs to be held to account for its historic role in contributing to climate change.
Loss and Damage made a lot of progress at GOP27 last year but it ultimately failed to give money to those who need it. A discussion forum is not enough in the face of the untold damage and irreversible losses that are happening today.
The UK must take the opportunity of COP28 to push negotiations forward and make tangible commitments to the dedicated sources of international finance that are so desperately needed.
As my MP, I would like to request the following:
- Ask the Government what is being done for the UK to meet its international responsibilities regarding Loss and Damage.
- Raise awareness of Loss and Damage on your social media – share these testimonials: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved/campaigns/climate-change/loss-and-damage-testimonials-videos.
- Explain how your party will ensure that the UK provides an adequate contribution to the Loss and Damage facility.
Yours sincerely,
[Name and address]