Climate Diplomacy in Action: COP29 in Baku

COP29, hosted in Baku in November 2024, marks a significant step in the global climate agenda, emphasizing green energy and climate finance. Hosting COP29 enhances Azerbaijan's international standing and promotes sustainable development initiatives.

Caspian - Alpine Team
Caspian - Alpine Team
Image: cop29.az

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the supreme decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), convening annually since 1995. Representatives from all participating countries discuss and adopt measures to combat climate change. Key topics include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, climate adaptation, financing climate projects, and transitioning to green energy. COP plays a crucial role in global efforts to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations at levels that prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system.

COP29, the 29th session, which will take place in November 2024 in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is a pivotal event in the global fight against climate change. This conference will bring together leaders, experts, and activists from around the world to discuss and make decisions on key issues related to climate policy, financing, and sustainable development. Special emphasis will be placed on accelerating the transition to green energy, improving climate financing, and implementing the goals of the Paris Agreement.

Hosting COP29 in Azerbaijan holds significant importance for the country for several reasons. Firstly, this event provides a unique opportunity for Azerbaijan, as an oil and gas producing country, to transform its energy landscape by increasing the share of renewable energy sources in its energy mix, demonstrating its commitment to combating climate change on the international stage.

Moreover, hosting COP29 in Baku highlights the importance of the South Caucasus in the global climate agenda. Azerbaijan, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, plays a crucial role in regional and international energy corridors. Holding such a significant event in Baku enhances the country’s international status and strengthens its position in the global community.

What Azerbaijan Expects from COP29

Azerbaijan anticipates several benefits from hosting COP29. Firstly, it presents an opportunity to attract global attention to its climate initiatives and projects. The country plans to use the summit to showcase its achievements in green energy and sustainable development.

Azerbaijan also expects to strengthen international cooperation on climate change. The summit will serve as a platform for the exchange of experiences and technologies between countries, enabling Azerbaijan to accelerate its transition to a green economy. Special emphasis will be placed on climate project financing and attracting investments in renewable energy.

Additionally, participation in COP29 will allow Azerbaijan to bolster its diplomatic ties and expand cooperation with other countries and international organizations. The country intends to use the summit to promote its initiatives in sustainable development and climate security, enhancing its international image and strengthening its position on the global stage.

Furthermore, the influx of thousands of foreign guests, including world leaders, experts, scientists, and civil society representatives, will generate a significant economic impact, stimulating the development of tourism, hospitality, and other sectors of the economy.

Why Azerbaijan?

In 2016, Azerbaijan signed the Paris Agreement, committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a green economy. The primary goals set by Azerbaijan include a 35% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and a 40% reduction by 2050, compared to 1990 levels. Additionally, the country aims to increase the share of renewable energy sources in its total energy balance to 30% by 2030 and develop renewable energy projects, including solar and wind energy, with a total capacity of up to 4 GW.

To achieve these goals, Azerbaijan is implementing a number of projects and programs aimed at improving energy efficiency and developing renewable energy sources. One example of such projects is the construction of wind and solar power plants in collaboration with international partners, such as Saudi company ACWA Power and Masdar from the UAE. The latter is involved in building solar and wind power plants with a total capacity of up to 1 GW. These projects not only contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also create new jobs, fostering economic growth. Alongside ACWA Power, Azerbaijan is constructing a 240 MW wind power plant.

Azerbaijan is also working on developing infrastructure for transmitting green energy. For instance, a project to lay an underwater electrical cable through the Black Sea, connecting Azerbaijan with Europe, will enable the export of renewable energy to the European Union. This project will enhance regional energy security and open new markets for Azerbaijani green energy.

Azerbaijan is taking concrete steps to improve the environmental situation in the country. One such measure is the creation of “Green Energy Zones” in the liberated territories of Karabakh and East Zangezur. These zones will be used for implementing renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric installations. This will not only restore the ecological balance in these areas but also promote their economic development.

Additionally, Azerbaijan is implementing greening and reforestation programs aimed at increasing biodiversity and improving air quality. These programs include mass tree planting, the creation of parks, and forest areas, which contribute to improving the urban environment and enhancing the quality of life for the population.

An important element of the country’s environmental policy is also combating water pollution. Azerbaijan is implementing projects to clean rivers and lakes, and improve water supply and sewerage systems. These measures are aimed at protecting aquatic ecosystems and providing the population with clean drinking water.

Another significant initiative is the development of waste management systems. Azerbaijan is introducing modern waste recycling and disposal technologies, creating specialized landfills and recycling plants. This helps reduce the negative impact of waste on the environment and improve the ecological situation in the country.

Azerbaijan actively participates in international climate initiatives to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change. An important step in this direction was the country’s accession to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 1995. Since then, Azerbaijan has regularly participated in the Conference of the Parties (COP), demonstrating its commitment to the global climate agenda.

Azerbaijan also actively participates in international climate initiatives and funds, such as the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF), which provide financial and technical support for the implementation of its climate projects. This cooperation helps accelerate Azerbaijan’s transition to sustainable development and reduce the country’s carbon footprint.

The country is also a member of the International Solar Alliance and other international coalitions that support the development of renewable energy sources and clean technologies. This cooperation allows Azerbaijan to exchange experiences and advanced technologies with other countries and gain access to international climate funds and investments.

It is also worth noting that Azerbaijan actively cooperates with the European Union and other international partners to attract investments and technologies necessary for the implementation of climate projects. Currently, in preparation for the summit, the country’s government is negotiating with international financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, to secure financing for green energy and sustainable development projects.

All these efforts undoubtedly played a role in the selection of oil and gas-rich Azerbaijan as the host for this global event.

How Azerbaijan is Preparing for COP29

The Government of Azerbaijan is actively preparing for COP29, focusing on both organizational and strategic aspects of the event. Immediately after Azerbaijan was selected as the host country for COP29, the President Aliyev declared 2024 Green World Solidarity Year. And on January 13, 2024, President signed a decree to establish the “COP29 Organizing Committee.” The head of the Presidential Administration, Samir Nuriyev, was appointed as the chairman of the Organizing Committee, and Mukhtar Babayev, the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, was appointed as the President-Designate of COP29.

Having previously led the Azerbaijan delegation at five previous COP conferences, Mr. Babayev brings a wealth of experience to his role as the appointed president of COP29. His previous work at SOCAR, dedicated to sustainable development and environmental protection, further demonstrates his commitment to ecological issues. As the appointed president, he is tasked with advancing the Presidency Plan, which includes ensuring that parties fulfill their commitments and striving to achieve more ambitious goals to meet the objectives of the Paris Climate Agreement.

Following some critical remarks regarding the male dominance in the committee, President Ilham Aliyev signed two additional decrees on January 19 and February 22, 2024, to expand the committee to ensure inclusivity and gender parity. After this expansion, the representation of women and civil society was strengthened. The committee now also includes Jeyhun Bayramov, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy; Vilayat Eyvazov, Minister of Internal Affairs; Anar Alakbarov, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan; along with other ministers, officials, and NGO leaders.

From left to right: Nigar Arpadarai (Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP29), Yalchin Rafiyev (COP29 Lead Negotiator), Mukhtar Babayev (COP29 President-Designate), Narmin Jarchalova (Chair of COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company and Chief Operating Officer for COP29), Elnur Soltanov (Chief Executive Officer of COP29), Leyla Hasanova (Youth Climate Champion for COP29)

In preparation for COP29, Azerbaijan is also actively engaging with the United Nations, particularly with the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), to ensure high levels of coordination and cooperation.

Baku, the summit’s host city, began its preparations long before the event. This includes comprehensive modernization of the city’s infrastructure. With an expected arrival of around 70-80 thousand guests from around the world (a record for the city), significant efforts are being made to create comfortable and safe conditions for the event.

To accommodate this large number of participants and guests, the best hotels in the city have been engaged, and new ones are being built. It has been reported that, in anticipation of COP29 and amid concerns of a potential shortage of lodging, the government has instructed hotels in Baku to suspend room bookings for the summit dates. This has raised concerns about possible price increases and the availability of affordable accommodations for less affluent delegates and activists. The number of Airbnb listings has also increased, with more property owners offering their apartments for the summit period. Hosting COP29 in Baku will provide a significant boost to the local economy, particularly benefiting tourism, the hospitality sector, restaurants, and other service industries.

Baku is also preparing for increased transportation demands. Infrastructure improvements include enhancing road networks and modernizing the public transportation system to ensure smooth movement for summit participants. Baku has experience hosting major international events, such as the European Games, Islamic Solidarity Games, Eurovision, and Formula 1, which provides confidence in organizing COP29.

The COP29 Organizing Committee, which includes representatives from various ministries and agencies, including law enforcement, is tasked with promptly addressing arising issues and coordinating actions at all levels. Measures are also being taken to ensure cybersecurity, information protection, and public order. This includes the installation of modern surveillance systems, access control to event sites, and enhanced public security measures at event venues and participant accommodations.

What Will Be Discussed at COP29

COP29 in Baku will be an important platform for discussing numerous key issues related to global climate change. The summit will address topics such as climate finance, energy transition, climate adaptation, and emission reduction measures.

One of the main topics at COP29 will be climate finance. Financial support is necessary to help developing countries adapt to climate change and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. It is expected that the summit will discuss a new collective quantitative goal (NCQG) for climate finance, which will replace the current goal of $100 billion per year set at COP15 in Copenhagen and reaffirmed in the Paris Agreement.

Climate finance is crucial for the implementation of countries’ nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and the support of renewable energy and sustainable development projects. Azerbaijan, as the host country, intends to actively participate in these discussions and attract international investments for its climate projects.

The second important topic will be the energy transition, which involves moving from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Azerbaijan, as one of the leading oil and gas-producing countries, is actively working on diversifying its energy sector and increasing the share of renewable energy in its energy balance.

The summit will discuss strategies and policies aimed at accelerating the energy transition, such as the development of solar and wind energy, improving energy efficiency, and the implementation of new technologies. Countries are expected to present their updated NDCs, including specific measures for reducing emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy sources.

Climate adaptation will be another key topic at COP29. Climate change is already having a significant impact on ecosystems and societies worldwide, and it is important to develop strategies that will help countries cope with these challenges. The summit will discuss measures to increase resilience to climate changes, such as building infrastructure resistant to extreme weather conditions and developing programs to protect biodiversity and water resources.

Adapting to climate change requires significant financial and technical resources, and COP29 will focus on mechanisms for international cooperation and knowledge sharing that can help countries address these challenges. Azerbaijan, as the host country, intends to actively promote its adaptation initiatives and attract international support for their implementation.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a central theme of any climate summit, and COP29 will be no exception. The summit will discuss measures and policies aimed at reducing global emissions and achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

At COP29, countries will present their updated NDCs, including specific measures for reducing emissions in various sectors of the economy. Azerbaijan, in turn, intends to demonstrate its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, including the development of renewable energy projects and improving energy efficiency in industry and transportation.

Benefits of the Summit for the Region

Hosting COP29 in Baku is significant for Azerbaijan, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia. This summit will draw global attention to the challenges and opportunities of these regions, providing countries with a platform to seek collaborative solutions.

The South Caucasus and Central Asia face climate challenges such as rising temperatures, droughts, floods, and declining water levels in the Caspian Sea, affecting water resources, agriculture, water supply, and ecosystems. COP29 offers countries in the region the chance to present their strategies and initiatives for climate adaptation and to attract international support.

This summit provides an opportunity to attract international investments and technologies for climate projects. Countries can use the platform to showcase their renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable development projects, drawing the attention of investors and donors.

COP29 will serve as a venue for exchanging experiences and best practices between regional countries and the international community. This will improve coordination efforts in combating climate change and adapting to its impacts. Cooperation between countries in water resources, agriculture, and energy can significantly enhance their resilience to climate challenges.

However, hosting COP29 also comes with challenges for the region. One major challenge is the need for coordinated actions and mutual understanding among countries with varying economic and political interests, which can be difficult to achieve. Additionally, implementing climate projects requires substantial financial resources, which may be challenging for some countries in the region.

Another challenge is the need to strengthen institutional capacities and create effective mechanisms for implementing climate strategies and projects. This requires not only financial investments but also the development of human capital and institutional structures capable of managing climate risks and adaptation measures. Azerbaijan intends to address these issues at the summit to find sustainable solutions.

Social Aspects of COP29

Hosting COP29 in Baku provides a unique opportunity to engage civil society and local communities in climate initiatives. Involving various segments of the population in discussing and addressing climate issues is a key element of successfully achieving sustainable development, which is evidently a priority for the country’s leadership.

Azerbaijan is actively working to raise public awareness about the importance of climate change and the need for action. As part of the preparations for COP29, numerous events, forums, and conferences are being held to draw public attention to environmental issues. Civil society and local communities have the opportunity to participate in these events, offer their suggestions, and actively engage in discussions.

Azerbaijan places special emphasis on developing educational and awareness programs related to climate. In preparation for COP29, various educational activities and programs are being conducted, including courses and seminars on sustainable development, renewable energy sources, and climate change adaptation measures, aimed at increasing the knowledge and awareness of the population about climate change and ways to combat it. These activities target schoolchildren, students, and adults, helping to create an informed and active society ready to take action in the field of ecology.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) also play an important role in this process, actively cooperating with government institutions and international partners to implement educational and awareness programs. NGOs organize training sessions, workshops, and other events aimed at developing competencies and increasing the knowledge level of the population in the areas of ecology and sustainable development.

Conclusion

On June 4, 2024, at the opening of the 29th International Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition and the 12th Caspian International Energy and Green Energy Exhibition – Caspian Power, held as part of Baku Energy Week, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev emphasized the importance of green energy. He noted that Baku Energy Week now covers all segments of energy policy, including green energy, and that Azerbaijan is actively developing these technologies. Aliyev also stressed that all international agreements signed by Azerbaijan over the past thirty years have been fully implemented, reaffirming the country’s reliability as a partner in sustainable and green energy, which is especially significant ahead of COP29 in Baku.

Image: apa.az

“We will see that our target to have two gigawatts of renewables by the end of 2027 is absolutely realistic. This is only the beginning,” Aliyev stated. He highlighted the significant hydropower potential in the liberated areas of Karabakh and East Zangezur, where hydropower stations with a total capacity of 270 megawatts have already been inaugurated since November 2020. This capacity is expected to reach 500 megawatts within three to five years. Aliyev added that achieving one gigawatt of renewables will save roughly half a billion cubic meters of natural gas, which is crucial for meeting market demands.

COP29 in Baku will be a significant step not only towards sustainable development and combating climate change but will also provide Azerbaijan with unique opportunities to attract investments in green energy and sustainable development. COP29 will create a platform for establishing new partnerships and agreements with international organizations and private investors. This opens up additional opportunities for financing and implementing projects in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable development.

The government is actively promoting projects in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to diversify the country’s energy balance and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This presents vast opportunities for the international business environment. Consequently, hosting COP29 in Baku will act as a catalyst for the development of the green economy and sustainable growth in Azerbaijan, contributing to environmental improvements and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.

Moreover, hosting such a large-scale international event will allow Azerbaijan to strengthen its diplomatic ties and improve relations with other countries and international organizations. The successful hosting of the summit will enhance trust in Azerbaijan as a reliable partner in international initiatives and projects. This, in turn, will open new opportunities for the country to collaborate and exchange experiences in various fields, including economics, science, and technology.

Finally, on a more material but equally important note, the positive effects of hosting the summit will be felt even after its conclusion. The improved city infrastructure, increased international status, and positive attention from global media will contribute to a rise in tourism, further bringing economic benefits to the country.

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