Climate change and sustainable development in regions lagging behind in Latin America. A look from the north-west of Uruguay

Abstract

If polarization between the capital city and the inland areas of the country concerning development level, Uruguay’s sustainable development is conditioned by the increasing pressure on natural resources and by climate change. Considering the national situation and the socio-productive profile of the Northeast region (departments of Artigas, Rivera, Tacuarembó and Cerro Largo), the article focuses on the issue of climate change from a qualitative approach and defining the territorial governance approach as theoretical framework. Its considers the dimension of articulation between different governmental levels and the participation of local actors, whose vision constitutes a input for assertive public policies. In this context, the article characterizes current challenges in terms of institutional design in order to cope with this issue. Finally, it outlines some perspectives on sustainable development and climate change for the Uruguayan Northeast region.