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COP29 Live Blog
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COP 29 Live Blog - 15th November
Welcome to our live blog of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP 29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan. Over the next two weeks, world leaders, policymakers, activists, and experts will gather to discuss and negotiate critical issues related to climate change, biodiversity, and sustainability. The stakes are high, as the world faces a climate crisis that demands urgent and transformative action. We will be bringing you real-time updates, insights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses of the event, providing a comprehensive overview of the discussions, decisions, and outcomes of COP 29.
Day 5 at COP 29
Updated 00:15 GMT+4 – 16/11/24
As negotiations continue into the early hours of today, it’s clear that we’re still a long way from reaching a final agreement on key issues, particularly the new collective quantified goal on climate finance. However, progress was made today with the latest draft text on the matter, which is now ten pages shorter than previous versions. Despite this, finance negotiators are facing another long night of discussions, with their meeting room booked until 7:00 AM.
In Baku, the day concluded with the typical mix of progress, tension, and urgent debates. One of the key revelations came in the form of a new report, which uncovered that at least 1,773 coal, oil, and gas lobbyists have gained access to the United Nations climate talks. The report raised serious concerns over the significant influence these fossil fuel lobbyists are wielding over the negotiations, fueling a growing sense of unease about the industry's role in shaping the outcome of COP29. At least 132 executives from oil and gas companies have been invited to Baku as "guests" by the Azerbaijani government, receiving special host country badges that grant them exclusive access to the event.
This mounting concern was echoed by former US Vice President Al Gore, who added his voice to calls for greater transparency and accountability in the talks, criticizing the undue influence of fossil fuel corporations. The Green Party in the UK also joined the chorus, backing proposals to exclude fossil fuel companies and their lobbyists from the process altogether.
Delegates were also grappling with a more global question: What will the fight for climate justice look like if Donald Trump returns to the White House next year? The specter of a potential shift in US climate policy looms large over the talks, with many wondering how a change in leadership might affect global efforts to tackle the climate crisis.
Finally, a stark reminder of the challenge ahead came from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), which revealed that over 1,200 massive methane leaks have been reported by companies and countries in the last 18 months. Alarmingly, only 15 of these leaks have been addressed, underscoring the ongoing failure to tackle greenhouse gas emissions effectively.
Quick Update on Negotiations
Updated 19:45 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
Parties are engaged in intense informal consultations, particularly on the Paris Agreement Article 6.2 and just transition, with some sessions extending into the late evening. The draft text on national adaptation plans has faced strong opposition from developing countries, leading to further coordination efforts. Additionally, discussions on technology have prompted calls for Presidency consultations.
Despite the challenges, there have been some positive developments. Parties have reached an agreement on reporting tools under the Paris Agreement's enhanced transparency framework, ensuring interoperability with IPCC software. Furthermore, progress has been made on the arrangements between the COP and CMA, the Board of the Loss and Damage Fund, and capacity building.
However, the Chairs of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies remain heavily involved in various negotiations, including matters related to least developed countries and Paris Agreement Article 6.4. As COP29 enters its second week, delegates aim to finalize agreements on key issues that were not addressed in the first half, such as the new finance goal and market-based approaches for implementation. With an extra two hour slot of informal consultations in the evening, COP 29 has had longer days than usual for UNFCCC COPs.
Crackdown On Dissent
Updated 19:30 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
A growing concern is overshadowing the climate discussions: the host country's human rights record. Human rights groups allege that the Azerbaijani government is using the global spotlight to silence environmental activists and political opponents. Climate Action Network, a coalition of nearly 2,000 climate organizations, has emphasized the crucial role of civil society in achieving meaningful climate action.
Azerbaijan's Denial and Mounting Repression
Despite these accusations, the Azerbaijani government vehemently denies any wrongdoing, insisting that it holds no political prisoners. However, Amnesty International paints a different picture. Natalia Nozadze, from the organization, highlights a significant uptick in arrests and the suppression of dissent since Azerbaijan was chosen to host COP29.
Nozadze warns, "We've witnessed a dramatic escalation in arrests and a crackdown on any issue that the government might deem critical or contrary to its political agenda."
A Dark Cloud Over Climate Diplomacy
This troubling trend raises serious questions about the integrity of COP 29. Can genuine climate progress be achieved in a country where fundamental freedoms are being eroded? As delegates convene to negotiate crucial climate policies, the world must remain vigilant and call out human rights abuses wherever they occur.
Controversies Surrounding Macron's G20 Prioritization
Updated 16:41 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
France's non-participation in the ongoing UN Climate Change Conference, COP29, in Baku, has become a subject of discussion among a wide audience. Instead of showing its biased position towards Azerbaijan by not coming to Baku, France has further tarnished its image. Interestingly, today, French President Emmanuel Macron decided to head to Brazil, southwest America and join the G20 summit instead of COP29.
Everyone knows that the UNCCC was first signed and agreed upon in the French capital, Paris, on the basis of a document with the joint consent of 196 countries. But what is surprising is France's disregard for that document and its refusal to attend the international event in Baku, where the most painful problems of our planet are being discussed. So, what response does Macron intend to give to 196 countries to evade this great commitment? As for the G20, it serves as a platform for Macron to wash his sins in the eyes of the world.
COP29 Launches Bold Energy Initiatives to Drive Climate Action and Achieve 1.5°C Target
Updated 16:01 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
Today, during the High-Level Roundtable on Green Energy, Hydrogen, and Global Energy Storage and Grids, the COP29 Presidency officially launched three key initiatives: the COP29 Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge, the COP29 Green Energy Pledge: Green Energy Zones and Corridors, and the COP29 Hydrogen Declaration. These initiatives call on Party and non-Party stakeholders to endorse and actively support their implementation, as part of Energy/Peace, Relief, and Recovery Day at COP29 Azerbaijan.
The initiatives, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan, alongside leading international organizations including the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), represent a collective effort to achieve global climate objectives and maintain the 1.5°C target within reach. They highlight the critical role of international cooperation in driving ambitious and transformative climate action
COP29 Marks Historic Agreement For a UN-Backed Global Carbon Market:
Updated 15:20 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
The COP29 summit marked a significant milestone as nearly 200 nations approved new standards for the UN-backed international carbon market, which is poised to enhance global efforts in meeting climate targets. This decision followed years of complex negotiations and sets the foundation for a robust market where carbon credits can be traded transparently and credibly. Carbon credits represent activities that prevent or remove greenhouse gases, such as planting trees or replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy.
Once fully operational, this market will allow countries, especially those with high emissions, to offset their carbon output by purchasing credits from nations that exceed their emission reduction goals. This is a key component of the Paris Agreement’s Article 6, which governs the global exchange of carbon credits. These credits could be used by nations to meet their climate promises, pushing them closer to their long-term emission reduction objectives.
While the approval of the standards is a crucial step, challenges remain, such as finalizing the governance and ensuring the integrity of the market. Critics also note that simply offsetting emissions doesn’t solve the root problem of ongoing fossil fuel reliance. Still, this development is seen as a vital move toward operationalizing the global carbon market, fostering environmental progress, and directing resources to developing countries that need them most.
The Baku Call: Linking Climate Action to Global Peace and Security
Updated 15:09 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
At COP29, the "Baku Call on Climate Action for Peace, Relief, and Recovery" (BCCAPR) was unveiled, spotlighting the urgent connection between climate change and global conflict. This initiative recognizes that climate change extends beyond environmental degradation; it intensifies migration, resource competition, and social unrest, particularly in vulnerable regions.
While the Baku Call is a timely and critical step, it raises pressing questions about the global response. Will world leaders go beyond symbolic gestures and implement actionable strategies to tackle the nexus of climate and conflict? As climate change increasingly drives geopolitical tensions, COP29 must address it as both an environmental and security crisis. Failure to do so risks cementing climate-induced conflicts as a grim new global reality. The Baku Call is a powerful starting point, but its true impact depends on the commitment to tangible, transformative action.
Central Asia Steps Up
Updated 14:41 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
At the COP29 Energy Transition Investment Forum for Central Asia, IRENA unveiled a groundbreaking partnership to accelerate renewable energy deployment and advance green industrialization across the region. The two-day forum, jointly hosted by IRENA, the COP29 Presidency, and Azerbaijan's Ministry of Energy, brought together energy ministers from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan to foster collaboration and innovation.
“Central Asian countries have a pivotal role in global efforts to decarbonize the energy sector. This partnership represents a significant milestone in advancing our collective climate ambitions,” stated COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev. The initiative highlights Central Asia's growing commitment to transitioning toward sustainable energy systems and achieving shared climate goals through regional cooperation and transformative investments
A Delicate Balancing Act By Africa
Updated 14:00 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
African nations find themselves navigating a complex geopolitical landscape while pressing for ambitious climate action. While the continent remains highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, its delegates face a delicate balancing act between securing critical climate finance and maintaining diplomatic relations with key global players.
The NCQG
One of the central issues on the negotiating table at COP29 is the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). This refers to the amount of climate finance that developed countries will commit to providing to developing nations to help them adapt to climate change and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. The 2015 Paris Agreement set a target of $100 billion per year by 2020, a goal that was not met until 2022. African nations are pushing for a significant increase in this figure, arguing that it is insufficient to address the continent's growing climate challenges.
A Cautious Approach to China
Despite China's increasing role as a major global polluter and investor in renewable energy, African nations are wary of alienating the Asian giant. China is a member of the G77 group of developing countries, and many African nations rely on Chinese investment and trade. As a result, African negotiators are hesitant to support proposals that would single out China for increased climate finance contributions.
African nations are caught between a rock and a hard place. On one hand, they are under immense pressure to secure adequate climate finance to protect their populations and economies from the devastating effects of climate change. On the other hand, they must maintain diplomatic relations with major powers like China, which could provide significant economic and technological assistance.
Brazil unveiled its groundbreaking NDC 3.0 today
Updated 13:32 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
Brazil unveiled its ambitious NDC 3.0 today, setting a new standard for emissions reductions across all sectors. This transformative initiative demonstrates Brazil’s commitment to bold climate action, positioning the country as a global leader ahead of COP30. The comprehensive targets reflect Brazil’s proactive approach to tackling climate change and fostering sustainable development.
This announcement aligns with the UK’s recent enhancement of its emissions targets, signaling a wave of renewed ambition among G20 nations. As major economies step up their climate commitments, the momentum builds for collective global action to address the pressing challenges of climate change. Brazil’s leadership reinforces the importance of decisive action and collaboration in shaping a resilient, low-carbon future
ANALYSIS: Europe's Fossil Fuel Paradox
Updated 13:30 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
A stark contradiction emerges from Europe's energy policies. While European leaders champion climate ambition and pledge to decarbonize their economies, a significant expansion of fossil gas infrastructure is underway.
A recent report by Beyond Fossil Fuels and Greenpeace reveals that Europe is planning to add 80 gigawatts of gas-fired power capacity. This expansion is particularly concerning given the ambitious climate targets set by key European nations:
- Italy and Germany: Aim to decarbonize their electricity grids by 2035.
- UK: Targets an even earlier date of 2030.
This discrepancy between stated climate goals and actual infrastructure investments raises serious questions about Europe's commitment to a sustainable future. While gas can play a role in a transitional energy system, overreliance on this fossil fuel risks locking in carbon-intensive infrastructure and hindering the rapid deployment of renewable energy sources.
The Risks of Gas Expansion
- Stranded Assets: Investing heavily in gas infrastructure could lead to stranded assets if the continent successfully transitions to renewable energy.
- Delayed Renewable Deployment: New gas plants may divert investment and attention away from renewable energy projects, slowing the pace of decarbonization.
- Increased Carbon Emissions: Continued reliance on gas for power generation could undermine efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
A Day of Peace, Relief, and Recovery
Updated 12:00 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
Today in Baku, the focus shifts to "peace, relief, and recovery," a theme that resonates deeply in a year marked by widespread conflict and displacement. The devastating impacts of violence in regions such as Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and the DRC have underscored the urgent need for global unity and action.
Climate Change and Conflict
While climate change is not the sole driver of conflict, research suggests it can exacerbate existing tensions and trigger new ones. Scarcity of resources, particularly water, is emerging as a major risk factor for future wars. This is particularly concerning for host country Azerbaijan, which relies heavily on water sources outside its borders.
Global Leaders Address the Crisis
Numerous world leaders have recognized the destructive impact of conflict on both human lives and the environment. From Belarus to the EU, leaders have condemned violent imperialism and called for peace. The Israeli bombing of Gaza and the muted international response have also drawn criticism.
Jordanian Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II highlighted the inextricable link between war and climate change, emphasizing how conflict compounds environmental threats. This is particularly evident in Jordan, where refugees constitute a significant portion of the population.
Azerbaijan's Peace Initiative
Azerbaijan has positioned COP29 as a "peace COP," aiming to project a positive image after the recent conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. However, the extent to which this initiative will foster meaningful climate cooperation remains uncertain.
Negotiations and Key Findings
Despite the geopolitical tensions, climate negotiations are progressing. A crucial report revealed that developing countries require $1 trillion annually in climate finance by 2030, a target that wealthy nations may struggle to meet. Innovative financing mechanisms, such as taxing cryptocurrencies and petroleum-based plastics, have gained traction as potential solutions.
While there is cautious optimism about the progress in climate finance negotiations, skepticism persists among some observers. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether COP 29 can deliver meaningful outcomes to address the pressing challenges of climate change and conflict.
Good Morning!
Updated 11:10 GMT+4 – 15/11/24
Welcome to the fifth day of our live coverage of COP 29.
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La journée de l'énergie, paix, secours et du redressement à la COP 29 en Azerbaïdjan, nous avons hâte de virer vers les énergies vertes 🟢💚🌲
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Energy ,,,,peace ,,,relief and recovery ,---we are eagerly waiting for today's topic as we tackle on how to move away from fossil fuels to renewable energy