COP 29 in Baku: The Turning Point for Global Climate Action

Figure 1: Image showing Azerbaijan’s National Flag

Introduction

All eyes turn to Baku, Azerbaijan, between November 11^th – 22^nd, 2024. That’s where COP 29 (Conference of the Parties) is happening. The world is grappling with the escalating effects of climate change. So, this gathering is a crucial opportunity for countries to come together and strategize on comprehensive global climate action.

Scientists worldwide warn of irreversible damage if immediate steps aren’t taken, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. So, will COP 29 mark a significant turning point in our commitment to combatting climate change, or will it yield more promises with little action?

Countries are preparing to unveil their latest commitments and strategies. The focus will be on whether this conference can inspire genuine collaboration and ambitious policies. This is to reduce emissions and strengthen resilience against climate impacts.

The world is watching! The time for transformative action is now. Join us as we dive into the significance of COP 29 and what it could mean for our planet’s future. Keep reading to learn more!

Why Is Baku, Azerbaijan, Hosting The 29^th Annual UN Climate Change Conference?

Before we delve into the conference agenda, here are a few reasons why Baku, Azerbaijan, is hosting this year’s conference. Take a look!

Hosting COP 29 is a significant chance for Azerbaijan to demonstrate its dedication to climate resilience and environmental sustainability. Azerbaijan has long been a major force in the world energy scene. It’s because of its abundance of natural resources. These natural resources include:

• Gas
• Oil

Currently, the country is focusing on green technology and renewable energy sources. This is to lessen the effects of climate change and cut carbon emissions.

Furthermore, Azerbaijan has a priceless chance to further its collaborations with other nations and global organizations in fighting climate change at COP 29. Azerbaijan can support international efforts to tackle climate change and meet the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.

What’s On The Agenda At The COP 29 In Baku?

Azerbaijan has made several promises to spur bold action. These will be the main agenda at the COP 29. They consist of:

1.    Boosting Green Energy and Mitigating Emissions

The country has made several pledges to invest in renewable energy. They include:

• Declaration on Reducing Methane from Organic Waste
• An Ambitious Hydrogen Declaration
• A Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge

All these seek to improve global energy infrastructure and storage capabilities. The COP 29 leadership aims to lower emissions in the information and communication industries with the Green Digital Action Declaration.

2.    Building Climatic Resilience

The COP chair has put forward a climate program for farmers and a declaration advocating for integrated ways to address climate challenges to ecosystems and water basins. Baku also intends to introduce:

• The COP 29 Multisectoral Actions Pathways (MAP) Declaration – It aims to improve urban climate resilience
• The Initiative on Human Development for Climate Resilience – Emphasizes education, skills, health, and well-being. 

3.    New Goals for Climate Finance

It’s anticipated that countries will replace the 2009 Copenhagen Accord’s $100 billion yearly pledge to developing nations. The New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), to be discussed at COP 29 this November, is a new objective that is expected to go into effect in 2025.

By 2025, developing nations will need approximately $1 trillion annually and $2.4 trillion by 2030. This is to cover their climate financing needs. It’s according to a 2022 report by the Independent High-level Expert Group on Climate financing.

The two most controversial questions to be addressed are who should supply climate finance and how much money wealthy countries will contribute. Major economies, such as the US, want to increase the number of contributors. But, developing countries contend that this is outside the NCQG’s mandate.

Climate Action on the Edge: Will COP 29 in Baku Ignite Lasting Change?

The stakes for global climate action have never been higher! COP 29 in Baku represents not just another gathering of leaders but also a pivotal moment for our planet’s future.

COP 29 offers a critical platform for nations to redefine their commitments and accelerate progress. This is because of the alarming climate reports underscoring the urgency for immediate and effective measures.

The focus will be on collaboration and innovation. That’s bridging gaps between developed and developing countries in a quest for sustainable solutions. As citizens, we must hold our leaders accountable and advocate for ambitious policies that prioritize the health of our environment.

The outcomes of COP 29 could set a precedent for a unified global response to the climate crisis. With global participation and a shared sense of responsibility, we can transform aspirations into actions. We believe that COP 29 in Baku could become the turning point we desperately need for climate justice and action.