COLOMBIA’S outgoing environment minister has warned that the incoming government could reverse recent climate and conservation gains, pointing to its support for fracking and fossil fuel development, as well as climate scepticism among some officials.

In an interview with The Associated Press on Friday, Environment Minister Irene Velez Torres said she fears Colombia could lose ground on climate action at a time when the country is already confronting increasingly severe environmental challenges.

“Arriving with an attitude of climate denialism is absolutely dangerous,” Ms Velez said.

The comments come weeks before far-right President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella takes office on August 7 following a narrow and disputed election victory.

Among Ms Velez’s biggest concerns is the future of Indigenous environmental governance in the Amazon.

She said she worries the incoming administration could weaken recent efforts to recognise Indigenous authorities as key environmental decision-makers and reduce support for Indigenous territorial governance initiatives.

Ms Velez also warned about expanded fossil fuel development and mining in Colombia’s unique high-altitude wetlands, which supply water to millions of people.

Ms Velez said the change in government should not erase recent efforts to reduce deforestation, restore ecosystems and strengthen protections for the wetlands and the Amazon.

“We have a legacy that, despite our differences, should be preserved,” she said.

“It would be an unforgivable mistake to abandon this agenda simply because it comes from a different political sector.

“Social and environmental justice must remain at the centre of the political agenda.”