Impact of Climate Change on Development Panel

Kathryn Stratos, Director, Center for Climate Position Development, USAID
Patrick Francis, Environment and Social Performance (ESP) Practice Lead and Senior Director, MCC. 
Sue Chodakewitz, Chief Growth Strategy Officer, The Cadmus Group (moderator)

Panelists delved into the Center for Climate Positive Development, which serves as the focal point for implementing USAID's climate mission. Stratos highlighted the robust foundation laid by the climate strategy developed, outlining the objectives of the new mission. The panel also touched upon the influence of congressional funding priorities on certain aspects of USAID's mission, noting a rising trend in climate spending at the agency.

The conversation also incorporated USAID investments in climate change countermeasures. Francis provided insights into MCC's model and accomplishments within the agency. The panelists identified common challenges at both USAID and the MCC, pinpointing Time, Money, and Change as significant hurdles. The need for institutions to navigate quickly while maintaining efficiency emerged as a key theme, with the recognition that private partners could play a crucial role in this regard.

The discussion concluded with an exploration of the priorities, challenges, and constraints anticipated in the future for both the MCC and USAID. The emphasis was on the necessity of addressing these issues with agility and efficiency, and the potential role of strategic partnerships in overcoming challenges and driving impactful change.

View the full conference recap here.