he 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development places environmental protection and the fight against climate change at the heart of global action. This cross-cutting commitment is explicitly reflected in several of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): 

• SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation.
• SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy.
• SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities.
• SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production.
• SDG 13: Climate action.
• SDG 14: Life below water.
• SDG 15: Life on land.

The AECID integrates these goals into all its policies, programs, and strategic partnerships, promoting sustainable development models that protect biodiversity and strengthen community resilience. 

Spanish Cooperation’s Commitment to Nature and the Planet

Environmental protection, the sustainable use of natural resources, and a just ecological transition are central pillars of Spanish Cooperation.

In line with the principles of the Spanish Cooperation Master Plan, the AECID supports partner countries in designing and implementing interventions that integrate climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable use with a focus on equity and justice.

Priority areas of intervention include:

• Soil and terrestrial ecosystem conservation: preventing soil degradation, desertification, and deforestation through sustainable biodiversity conservation plans.
• Water management: supporting integrated water resource management initiatives that ensure equitable access, quality, and responsible use of water.
• Renewable energy and just transition: promoting projects that foster clean energy, especially in communities without access to electricity.
• Circular economy and responsible consumption: promoting sustainable production models that reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

These actions aim to integrate economic growth, social well-being, and environmental sustainability in a balanced way, in line with Spain’s international commitments.

Building Capacity to Address Environmental Risks 

AECID considers it essential to strengthen institutional and community capacities to adapt to environmental and climate risks. Cooperation in this area enhances resilience to extreme events, supports the sustainable management of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, and promotes the reduction of socio-environmental vulnerabilities.

Through its technical cooperation programs, AECID promotes knowledge exchange among public institutions, the private sector, and civil society, fostering innovative local solutions to the global challenges of climate change.

The Environment in Humanitarian Action

The environment is integrated as a cross-cutting element in AECID’s humanitarian and emergency action. All interventions seek to minimize their environmental impact while incorporating sustainability and climate adaptation criteria.

Within this framework, the Agency developed the Guide for Mainstreaming the Environment in Humanitarian Action, a technical tool that guides the planning and implementation of sustainable humanitarian actions, reducing negative effects on ecosystems and strengthening the response to crises associated with climate change.

Cooperation for a Green and Sustainable Future

The AECID reaffirms that the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss cannot be separated from human and social development. Its commitment to climate action, environmental protection, and a just transition directly contributes to the fulfillment of the 2030 Agenda, reinforcing the role of Spanish Cooperation as a key player in building an equitable, safe, and sustainable global future.