COP29: A Month of Action on Climate

COP29 - 11th to 22nd November 2024

The leaves are transforming into their familiar autumn colours, and the air is becoming crisper, marking a beautiful transition in nature’s calendar. With the clocks set back to standard time, we begin to adjust to the rhythm of the season, finding comfort in our homes, perhaps with a log fire and a warming evening drink.

November presents a perfect opportunity to appreciate the delicate balance of the environment around us. The unpredictable weather and the devastating floods in Spain serve as stark reminders of the impact of climate change on our planet and the importance of not becoming complacent.

This month, the global dialogue will focus on COP29, which will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan. This summit will bring together leaders from around the world to address urgent climate issues. As nations negotiate strategies and share innovative solutions, we can also participate by engaging in discussions about climate and nature and embracing sustainable practices within our community.

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What are COP Summits?

The Conference of the Parties (COP) consists of nations that have ratified the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), established in 1992.

Its primary objective is to promote international cooperation aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting global warming to ideally 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

Last years’ COP28 summit in Dubai set a record with over 85,000 delegates and over 150 heads of state attending. A key outcome was the first-ever global stocktake, which assessed progress toward the 2015 Paris Agreement. While some progress has been made, the stocktake revealed that efforts are inadequate and the world is not on track to meet the agreement's long-term goals.

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Expected Focus Areas for COP29:

• Emission Reductions: Reviewing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and encouraging more ambitious targets to limit global temperature rise.

• Climate Finance: Enhancing support for developing countries in their climate initiatives, especially in adapting to and mitigating climate impacts.

• Ecosystem Restoration: Discussing strategies for conserving biodiversity and protecting vital ecosystems as crucial components of climate resilience.

• Technological Innovation: Promoting advancements in clean technologies that can facilitate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

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Taking Action:

There are many ways in which we can support the goals of COP29, here are a few to consider. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference in the fight against climate change.

1. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint:

Take personal steps to lower your environmental impact. This may include reducing your energy consumption, using public transportation, reducing your meat consumption and minimising waste. You can calculate your own Carbon Foot print here

2. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the issues being discussed at COP29. Understanding climate science and expected outcomes can empower you to engage in discussions and advocacy.

3. Hold Businesses Accountable: Only support companies that prioritise sustainable practices and hold those that don’t accountable for their environmental impact.

4. Promote Local Initiatives: Support local projects aimed at enhancing sustainability, such as community gardens, renewable energy initiatives, or tree-planting campaigns (November-February is the perfect time to plant trees!)

5. Spread Awareness: Share success stories and information regarding innovative climate solutions. Encouraging a narrative of hope and action can motivate others to engage in climate efforts.

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“Your actions matter. No action or voice is too small to make a difference”.

Vanessa Nakate., Ugandan climate justice activist.

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