"Planet Water”: Rifkin calls for transforming our relationship with the hydrosphere to confront the climate crisis

At the 2025 International Economic Forum of Latin America and the Caribbean held in Panama, renowned sociologist, economist and author Jeremy Rifkin presented a transformative vision of humanity's relationship with the planet, which he proposed renaming as "Aqua Planet " to reflect the fundamental role of water in all life-sustaining systems.  

During his speech, Rifkin stressed that the current climate crisis represents the greatest challenge in human history, with potentially devastating consequences. "We are facing an extinction event, the likes of which has not been seen in 360 million years. 50% of species could disappear during the lifetime of today's children," warned the expert.

The American thinker questioned the traditional view of water as a mere resource, stressing its role as a source of life that regulates terrestrial, atmospheric and biological systems. "The hydrosphere runs this planet, not us. The hydrosphere determines the lithosphere — without water, there is no land. The hydrosphere determines the atmosphere — plankton in the ocean produces the oxygen we breathe," he explained.  

Rifkin noted that for 6,000 years, humanity has attempted to control the hydrosphere through dams, dikes and embankments, contributing to a profound ecological imbalance. However, he also presented a hopeful vision, highlighting that the current crisis offers a unique opportunity to fundamentally rethink our economies, governance, education and relationship with nature.  

In this context, the author highlighted the potential role of Latin America as a pioneer in the transition towards a new economic and social paradigm, especially through initiatives led by institutions such as CAF. The transformation, according to Rifkin, must be oriented towards decentralized technologies, renewable energies and distributed networks. 

The sociologist highlighted the role of the new generations, particularly those involved in movements such as 'Fridays for Future', who demonstrate a new awareness of the climate crisis and the need for urgent action. "They see themselves as an endangered species and are demanding immediate action," he said. Rifkin's participation in the Forum, which brings together political and business leaders, and experts from across the region, is part of a broader agenda focused on how to get back on the path to growth in Latin America and the Caribbean, with a particular focus on sustainability and resilience to climate change.