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COP29 Live Blog
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COP 29 Live Blog - 13th 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.
A Tense Climate at COP 29
Updated 00:00 GMT+4 – 14/11/24
It's midnight in Baku. Here's quick recap of day 3 to close the blog for the day.
Geopolitical Tensions Rise
- France Pulls Out: Following a scathing attack on France's colonial past by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, France's Ecology Minister, Agnes Pannier-Runacher, canceled her trip to Baku.
- Argentina Exits: Argentina, under the leadership of climate-skeptic President Javier Milei, withdrew its entire delegation from the conference.
Calls for Climate Justice and Finance
- Small Island States Demand Action: Leaders from small island nations expressed frustration and anger at the lack of progress and financial support from wealthy nations.
- Developing Nations Seek Climate Finance: Leaders from countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Iran emphasized the need for substantial climate finance, particularly in the form of grants, to address the impacts of climate change.
- A New Era of Consumption: Muhammad Yunus, interim leader of Bangladesh, called for a shift away from limitless consumption and fossil fuels, advocating for a new culture focused on sustainability and social justice.
Negotiations Intensify
- Climate Finance Remains Elusive: Despite ongoing discussions, the new climate finance goal remains a significant point of contention. A draft text on this issue has been expanded, adding complexity to the negotiations.
- Research and Observation: A draft text on research and observation has been released, acknowledging the WMO's report on 2024 as the hottest year on record.
- Aviation and Shipping Emissions: Negotiations on aviation and shipping emissions are ongoing, with significant disagreements among parties.
France Pulls Out After Azerbaijan's Attack
Updated 22:30 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
France's Minister for Ecology, Agnes Pannier-Runacher, has canceled her trip to Baku following a controversial speech by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.
Aliyev's speech, which drew applause from some Pacific island nations, harshly criticized France's handling of the recent independence protests in New Caledonia. The French minister deemed these comments a "flagrant violation of the code of conduct" for UN climate talks.
Pannier-Runacher further condemned Aliyev's comments on fossil fuels, particularly his description of Azerbaijan's vast oil and gas reserves as a "gift of God." Despite her absence, she assured that the French negotiating team will continue to push for a deal that prioritizes climate action and protects the planet.
This development adds another layer of complexity to the already tense geopolitical climate at COP 29. A few hours ago, Argentina pulled out its entire delegation from the conference.
Argentina Withdraws From COP 29
Updated 19:30 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
So from the diplomatic backchannels, we are just learning that Argentina has officially withdrawn from COP 29. The move, confirmed by Argentina’s Undersecretary for the Environment Ana Lamas in a press gaggle, comes after direct instructions from the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Lamas, the highest-ranking climate and environmental official in the country following President Javier Milei’s recent downgrading of the Ministry of Environment, confirmed the decision to halt participation. When asked about the implications for Argentina’s stance on the Paris Agreement, Lamas declined to comment directly, leaving uncertainty about whether the country plans to formally exit the landmark climate accord. "It’s true. We have instructions from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to no longer participate. That’s all I can tell you," Lamas said in a brief statement.
Milei, a controversial far-right leader, has previously dismissed the climate crisis as a "socialist lie" and threatened to withdraw from the Paris Agreement during his presidential campaign. However, despite these statements, he has since walked back on a complete exit, leaving room for speculation on Argentina’s future climate commitments.
In the broader context, Milei’s administration appears to be aligning with more populist and climate-skeptical rhetoric. Just yesterday, Milei held a call with incoming U.S. President Donald Trump, after which a spokesperson for Milei confirmed that Trump referred to him as his "favourite president."
Quick Evening Update
Updated 19:00 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Climate Finance Deadlock
Negotiators are grappling with the crucial issue of climate finance. Developing countries are demanding more funding from rich nations to help them adapt to the impacts of climate change. However, developed nations are accused of pushing weak language in the negotiations to avoid providing substantial financial support.
There is a glimmer of hope with development banks pledging to increase climate funding to poor and middle-income countries to $120 billion by 2030. While this is a step in the right direction, it falls short of the estimated $1 trillion needed annually.
Leadership Speeches
World leaders took center stage today, highlighting the urgency of climate action. Bangladesh's interim leader called out rich nations for causing the climate crisis and demanded they take responsibility for the solutions. Grenada's prime minister shared his country's devastating experience with drought and hurricanes, urging global cooperation to address the climate crisis.
The United States presented its plan to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050, while Greece's prime minister stressed the need for more resources to respond to the increasing frequency and intensity of climate disasters.
Fossil Fuel Profits vs. Climate Costs
A new analysis by Global Witness revealed that the profits of oil and gas companies could potentially cover the entire annual cost of loss and damage caused by climate change. This raises questions about the responsibility of these companies to contribute to climate solutions.
Concerns for the Future of Climate Cooperation
Representatives from small island states expressed concerns about the potential withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement under a new administration and the United Kingdom's reduced commitment to climate action.
Accelerating Action on Super Pollutants to Slow Climate Change
Updated 16:00 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
At COP29, Rick Duke, Deputy Special Envoy for Climate at the U.S. State Department, joined a special session focused on methane and non-CO2 greenhouse gases—often referred to as super pollutants. These gases, including methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases, are responsible for more than half of today’s global warming. Duke highlighted that while global efforts have centered on energy transitions and tackling deforestation, reducing emissions from these super pollutants offers the most immediate and cost-effective means to slow warming, with rapid cooling benefits that can be seen within years.
The U.S. has spearheaded international efforts to combat methane emissions, successfully mobilizing over $2 billion in funding through the Global Methane Pledge, which now includes 157 countries. Duke pointed out a pivotal milestone from a recent summit co-hosted by the U.S., China, and Azerbaijan, where China committed to including non-CO2 gases in its 2035 Paris Agreement targets for the first time. This breakthrough is akin to adding a "Russia-sized" economy to the global climate effort, signaling serious global alignment on the issue.
Yet, despite the growing awareness, Duke emphasized a glaring gap: less than 5% of climate finance is currently directed toward tackling non-CO2 super pollutants. With super pollutants contributing so heavily to warming, this underinvestment risks undermining progress in the fight against climate change. As Duke put it, addressing these pollutants is "the climate emergency break we need right now," and COP29 has underscored the need for accelerated action and funding to ensure a safer, cooler future.
Negotiations Intensify
Updated 14:00 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
The negotiations are now in full swing. While draft texts are beginning to emerge on various issues, the most significant one, the new climate finance goal, remains elusive. A draft text from Bonn was rejected by the G77+China group, and a new proposal has now surfaced, significantly expanded from its original 9 pages to a hefty 34 pages. This ballooning text now includes 13 sub-options, further complicating the negotiations.
On a more positive note, a draft text on research and observation has been released. It "takes note" of the WMO's alarming state of climate report, which highlights 2024 as the hottest year on record. This is a significant development, as there had been uncertainty about whether COP29 would formally acknowledge these findings.
However, the draft text on aviation and shipping emissions remains contentious, with numerous bracketed options indicating significant disagreement among parties. While the UNFCCC does not directly govern these emissions, some parties are pushing for ICAO and IMO to conduct scientific assessments of their emissions reduction plans.
$170 Billion Annual Climate Finance Commitment
Updated 13:30 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
During the World Leaders Climate Action Summit, multilateral development banks (MDBs) announced their annual climate financing goals for low- and middle-income countries. By 2030, MDBs aim to contribute $120 billion annually, with $42 billion earmarked for climate adaptation and $65 billion mobilized from the private sector. For high-income countries, projected financing reaches $50 billion, including $7 billion for adaptation.
MDBs have surpassed their 2025 climate finance goals, with a 25% increase in direct financing and a doubling in mobilized funds over the past year. COP 29 President Mukhtar Babayev emphasized the need for enhanced financing to address climate challenges and urged stakeholders to collaborate on ambitious new goals.
Operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund
The COP29 Presidency advanced the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage, which is now prepared to accept contributions. Following key agreements with the World Bank and the Philippines, the fund is set to start disbursing in 2025. Sweden pledged $19 million, raising total pledges to over $720 million.
UN Secretary-General Calls Out Rich Nations On Climate Injustice
Updated 12:45 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed strong support for small, climate-vulnerable island states, stating that they have every right to be angry with wealthier nations for their failure to lead on climate action.
“You are on the sharp end of a colossal injustice, an injustice that sees the very future of your islands threatened by rising seas,”
While praising the ambitious climate pledges made by island states, Guterres called on G20 nations—especially the wealthiest countries—to follow their lead and take more decisive action. He emphasized the urgent need for the creation of a loss and damage fund, as well as increased financial support for adaptation and mitigation efforts in vulnerable regions.
“We must push for the implementation of these commitments starting here and now,”
Guterres also pointed to the UN’s recent calls for reforming international financial institutions like the World Bank and the IMF to better address the needs of developing nations. These reforms would help reduce debt burdens and increase access to climate aid, which he said is essential for effective climate action.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Calls for Climate Justice and Financial Support
Updated 12:35 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan is the latest leader to speak at the high-level plenary, adding his voice to the ongoing calls for increased financial support to meet global climate goals. Sharif emphasized the critical need for climate justice, stating, “Without climate justice, there can be no real resilience,” and underlined his desire to prevent other nations from experiencing the same devastating climate impacts that Pakistan faced in 2022.
Pakistan’s catastrophic floods two years ago, which occurred just before COP 27 in Glasgow, left millions affected and brought global attention to the urgent need for action. The disaster played a key role in pushing rich countries to agree to establish a fund to cover the losses and damages suffered by vulnerable countries due to climate change.
“Two years ago, I warned loudly that the future would never forgive our inaction. Today, I echo that warning with even greater urgency and energy.”
"Our Civilization Is At Great Risk" - Head of Bangladesh’s Interim Government
Updated 12:25 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel peace laureate and chief adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, has condemned the culture of "limitless consumption" and called for a radical shift in societal values. Yunus argued that the current model of economic growth, based on fossil fuels, waste, and personal profit, is unsustainable and putting the future of the planet at risk.
"Our civilization is at great risk as we continue to promote self-destructive values," Yunus stated, highlighting the disconnect between modern economic practices and environmental preservation. He criticized the prevailing economic framework, saying it is treated as though it were as natural as the planetary system itself, despite its harmful consequences.
“It can be done...All we need to do is accept a new lifestyle consistent with the safety of the planet and all who live on it.”
Yunus, who has long advocated for social entrepreneurship and sustainable development, emphasized the need for a cultural transformation. He called for a new way of life that prioritizes sustainability over consumerism—one that rejects waste and fossil fuel dependency. This shift, he stressed, must be led by the younger generation, who should choose this path voluntarily rather than having it imposed upon them.
Empty Words, Empty Promises? - Albania’s PM
Updated 12:15 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Albania’s Prime Minister departed from his prepared remarks, expressing frustration with the disconnect between climate talks and actual action. Reflecting on the scene of leaders’ speeches playing silently on screens in a luxurious lounge, he remarked, “To me, this seems exactly like what happens in the real world every day. Life goes on with its old habits, and our speech is full of good words about fighting climate change.”
He noted Albania’s commitment to 100% renewable energy but questioned its impact when “the biggest polluters continue business as usual.” Acknowledging Albania’s position as a smaller nation often “lectured” by others, he questioned the purpose of these gatherings, asking, “What on earth are we doing in this gathering, over and over and over if there is no common political will on the horizon to go beyond words and unite for meaningful action?”
Reflecting on Albania’s transformation from isolation to partnership with the European Union, he shared a message of resilience and hope. He ended with a story from Islamic tradition: “If the Day of Judgment comes while one of you has a sapling in his hands, if he’s able to plant it before it comes, let him plant it.” This, he said, symbolizes the need to act meaningfully even in the face of adversity.
“We Can’t Wait Any Longer For Empty Pledges” - Antigua and Barbuda PM
Updated 12:10 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Prime Minister Karsten Alfonso Brown of Antigua and Barbuda addressed COP 29 with a call for immediate action against climate change, labeling it the greatest existential threat. He condemned wealthy nations for failing to deliver on their $100 billion climate aid pledge and proposed a global carbon tax to fund clean energy. Brown emphasized that climate finance should come as grants, not loans, to avoid deepening debt burdens on vulnerable countries. He warned that if commitments remain unmet, small nations will seek justice through international law, starting with a case before the International Court of Justice. Calling COP 29 a potential turning point, he urged that promises be honored, as time is running out for all.
“For nations like mine, [climate change] is no longer a warning, but a daily, devastating reality. We can’t wait any longer for empty pledges...To those who bear the greatest responsibility, I say this: the time for moral responsibility is now - justice demands promises are enforced...If voluntary promises remain broken, international law will be our path to justice.”
A Mother's Plea – Italian Prime Minister Calls for a Balanced Energy Mix
Updated 11:58 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the second and only other G7 leader apart from the UK PM attending COP 29, delivered a speech stressing the importance of a balanced energy mix to address climate change. Having arrived late and a slightly out of breath, she missed her original speaking slot before taking the stage.
Meloni highlighted that the global population is expected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, accompanied by a significant increase in global GDP, which will drive greater energy demand. In addition to renewables, she emphasized that technologies such as "gas, biofuels, hydrogen, and carbon capture and storage" will all play important roles in meeting this demand. However, she noted that scientists are clear: all fossil fuels must eventually be phased out.
She also mentioned nuclear fusion as a potential "game-changer" in the future energy landscape. Still, she acknowledged the common refrain that nuclear fusion is always "40 years away," suggesting that large-scale power generation from fusion is unlikely to arrive in time to prevent the worsening global climate crisis.
After outlining the technical aspects of the energy challenge, Meloni concluded on a personal note: "As a mother, nothing gives me more satisfaction than working on policies that will allow my daughter and future generations to live in a better world."
Gabon's Plea for Global Unity
Updated 11:55 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Gabon’s Vice President, Owondault Berre, delivered a passionate speech a little while ago, emphasizing the urgent need for global cooperation to address climate change. He highlighted the devastating impact of rising temperatures, pollution, and extreme weather events, stating, "Humanity continues to face unprecedented environmental challenges."
Berre stressed the importance of multilateralism and the need for nations to work together to implement effective climate solutions. He emphasized the potential of renewable energy, agro-ecology, and nature-based solutions, asserting, "The solutions are in our hands."
Recognizing the financial implications of climate action, Berre called for a more ambitious global financial architecture. He emphasized the need for greater support for developing nations, particularly those facing the brunt of climate change, such as the Caribbean.
Gabon, a country committed to environmental preservation, has maintained stable forest cover and is working towards a new constitution that prioritizes ecological sustainability. However, Berre cautioned that such efforts require significant international support. He stated, "The survival of the planet depends as much on our system as on the commitments of countries with historical responsibility."
Iran Calls For Sanctions Relief To Fight Climate Change
Updated 11:50 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Iran's Vice President, Shina Ansari Hamedani, kicked off the day's speeches from world leaders with a strong call for the lifting of international sanctions. She argued that these sanctions, particularly those targeting Iran's nuclear program, hinder the country's ability to invest in green energy and adapt to climate change.
"Iran has taken numerous measures to address climate change threats with further initiatives underway, including a national climate change management plan in our country’s seventh five-year development plan."
Hamedani also condemned the ongoing conflict in Gaza, calling for an end to the "occupation" by Israel.
"How can we achieve this goal when, in the past year alone, more than 43,000 people, more than half of whom were women, children, and infants, have been killed by the occupying Zionist regime?"
She emphasized the need for global cooperation to address both climate change and humanitarian crises. Iran, heavily reliant on oil revenues and vulnerable to climate impacts like droughts and heatwaves, faces significant challenges in transitioning to a sustainable future. Hamedani's speech underscores the complex interplay between geopolitical tensions and climate action.
Key Points from Hamedani's Speech:
- Sanctions as a Barrier: Hamedani argued that sanctions prevent Iran from accessing the necessary finance and technology to develop a green economy.
- Nuclear Power and Climate Change: She emphasized the role of nuclear power in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and called for the lifting of sanctions related to Iran's nuclear program.
- Global Cooperation: Hamedani stressed the need for international cooperation to address climate change and humanitarian crises, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
- Iran's Climate Commitments: She highlighted Iran's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and invest in renewable energy, but noted that these efforts are hindered by sanctions.
What’s on the Agenda for Today?
Updated 11:47 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
As COP29 unfolds, today’s sessions focus on pivotal themes, from accelerating climate finance to building resilience in vulnerable communities. Here’s a quick look at the day’s highlights:
- Climate Finance Commitments: A key topic today is the long-standing $100 billion pledge to support developing countries. Leaders are expected to discuss progress, address shortfalls, and explore new mechanisms, like the proposed global carbon tax, to fund clean energy initiatives.
- Loss and Damage Funding: Addressing the critical issue of loss and damage, today's sessions will explore how wealthier nations can support those most affected by climate change, especially through accessible, grant-based funds rather than loans.
- International Legal Pathways: Representatives from vulnerable countries, including Vanuatu and Antigua and Barbuda, will be leading a discussion on using international law to hold major polluters accountable. This builds on their efforts to seek an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice.
- Renewable Energy and Adaptation: Today also spotlights renewable energy projects, with nations like Albania presenting examples of their 100% renewable energy production. Sessions will address how other countries can adopt similar strategies to reduce emissions while building resilience to climate impacts.
- Civil Society and Youth Engagement: Various panels today will amplify voices from civil society and youth organizations, encouraging leaders to commit to transparent and immediate climate action.
World Leaders Set the Stage, Negotiators Grapple with the Details
Updated 11:45 GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Yesterday, the second day of COP29, saw a flurry of activity both inside and outside the negotiation rooms. The high-level segment kicked off, with world leaders delivering speeches outlining their countries' climate commitments and ambitions. Some world leaders are delivering their statements this morning. While these speeches set the tone for the conference, the real work was happening behind closed doors.
Negotiators were hard at work on a wide range of issues, with the new collective quantified goal on climate finance (NCQG) emerging as a key focus. This goal is crucial for enabling developing countries to implement ambitious climate action. However, discussions on the NCQG hit a roadblock yesterday, with Parties rejecting a proposed draft text and calling for a revised version.
While progress on the NCQG was slow, negotiations on other issues, such as Paris Agreement Article 6.2, long-term finance, and matters relating to the least developed countries, made slightly better headway. Parties requested the preparation of draft texts on these issues, indicating a potential shift towards more substantive discussions.
The intensity of negotiations was evident, with many sessions extending well beyond the usual 6 pm mark. Informal consultations continued late into the night, ending just before midnight and negotiators on issues like mitigation and just transition work programmes even held multiple meetings.
Good Morning!
Updated 11:25h GMT+4 – 13/11/24
Welcome to the third day of our live coverage of COP 29.
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Where is the article con Bolivia and the Minister who is at the COP meeting? If money is to be donated to the bolivian government, it should be said that transparency and accountability will be strict... if not, most of it will be stolen or spent for other things. I have lived there for lore than 40 years, and I am not saying this lightly.
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In your email update, WDHT wrote: An up to $5 billion investment in Bolivia's rainforest was today announced by Celinda Sosa Lunda, Bolivia’s Minister of Foreign Affair, and approved by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Private sector investors needing to reduce emissions are expected to invest. In an interview with We Don't Have Time, the minister explained ”This is not a carbon market investment”, but a new kind of financial instrument. Where can I find this interview? Thanks!
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@ted_weber i am also looking for the article on Bolivia and cant find it.
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@ted_weber Hi Ted, we will broadcast the interview today around 16:00 AZT. You can watch the interview here: https://www.wedonthavetime.org/events/cop29-day4
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I also want to support the proposal of funding not as a loan but to help the lower income countries accordingly to access the seventeen global goals on a real time otherwise it is very late. With best wishes Thanks Global Citizen (Climate Change Maker) Policymaker, India