From Deforestation Reduction to Clean Energy: Why She Is Among Time’s 100 Climate Leaders

Susana Muhamad, Colombia’s Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, has been named one of Time‘s 100 most influential climate leaders in 2024. Under her leadership, Colombia has adopted ambitious environmental policies focused on biodiversity conservation, deforestation reduction, and the transition to clean energy.

A Model for Forest Protection

One of Muhamad’s greatest achievements has been reducing deforestation by 36% in 2023, reaching the lowest level in 23 years. This success is due to financial incentives for farmers and the creation of new protected areas to combat illegal logging. However, the El Niño phenomenon and the resurgence of illegal practices in 2024 pose new challenges for Colombia’s forests. (Reuters)

The First Major Oil-Producing Country to Support a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty

In December 2023, Colombia became the first major oil and gas-producing country to endorse the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, a global initiative aimed at halting the expansion of the fossil fuel industry. This bold move, strongly backed by Muhamad, positions Colombia as a leader in the global energy transition.

$40 Billion for a Green Transformation

The energy transition is another key pillar of Muhamad’s work. In September 2024, she announced a $40 billion green investment portfolio, supporting eco-tourism, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation. The plan also includes the gradual phase-out of fossil fuel subsidies, aiming to build a sustainable economy based on clean energy and ecosystem protection. (Time)

COP16: Colombia’s Biodiversity Action Plan

As one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, Colombia has made nature conservation a priority. At the COP16 Biodiversity Summit in Cali, Muhamad presented Colombia’s 2030 Biodiversity Action Plan, which outlines 191 objectives and an investment of over $17.8 billion. Key initiatives include ecosystem restoration, indigenous community protection, and stronger enforcement against environmental crimes. (Le Monde)

A Future Without Fossil Fuels

Muhamad is not just focused on Colombia—she is advocating for global climate action. She calls for an international treaty to ban fossil fuel expansion and a new financial system to support developing nations in transitioning to renewable energy. Her message is clear: climate change must be tackled through global cooperation and concrete action.

A Leading Voice for the Planet

Susana Muhamad is more than just a government official—she has become one of the most influential voices in the global environmental movement. She proves that even an oil-producing country can lead the way toward a sustainable future. Her dedication earned her a spot on Time’s Climate Leaders list, but her fight is far from over.