COP29 in Baku: Broadcasting, volunteers, inclusivity, and program “Let’s stand together for a green world!”

Today, November 11, marks the opening of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, widely regarded as one of the world's most significant and prestigious international events.

COP29, taking place from November 11-22 at Baku Olympic Stadium, is the largest event ever hosted by Azerbaijan and the first of its kind in the region. An agreement between the Azerbaijani government and the UNFCCC Secretariat on "Host Country" arrangements, along with other critical documents, has been signed to facilitate this landmark conference, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

A high-level World Leaders' Climate Action Summit is scheduled to be held as part of COP29 on November 12-13, bringing together global leaders to discuss urgent climate issues. The primary expectation from COP29 is to reach a consensus on an equitable and ambitious New Collective Quantitative Goal (NCQG) for climate finance.

Under the COP29 presidency, 14 key initiatives have been proposed, focusing on the intersection between climate action and sustainable development goals. These include projects on green energy corridors, energy storage, climate resilience, clean hydrogen, methane reduction in organic waste, and green digital technologies. Additionally, the creation of a Climate Finance Action Fund is one of the major initiatives to be discussed.

Climate Finance and the 1.5°C Commitment

The establishment of climate finance mechanisms remains a top priority, aiming to unite global efforts and contribute to the critical 1.5°C target. Azerbaijan places high importance on environmental protection and mitigating the impacts of climate change, exemplified by its unanimous selection as the host country for COP29, a testament to the international community's respect and trust, as noted by President Ilham Aliyev.

Official Broadcasting, Volunteers, and Inclusivity

Baku Media Center has been appointed as the official broadcasting partner for COP29, ensuring high-quality coverage of the event. Volunteers will also play a crucial role, serving as ambassadors of sustainable development through their dedication and exemplary conduct.

The Azerbaijan COP29 Operations Company has taken several measures to ensure an inclusive environment at Baku Stadium, the venue for the conference. For the first time in COP history, sign language interpretation and an audio induction system will be provided for participants with hearing and speech impairments, making plenary sessions and panels more accessible.

Digital Transport Map and Sustainable Mobility

A digital transport map on the COP29 website will guide delegates through key transport hubs, optimizing their movement throughout the conference. The event will deploy 500 vehicles, including 210 for the Leaders' Summit and 140 electric buses, to facilitate sustainable transportation.

Comprehensive Program

The official COP29 program, available on the conference's website, covers a range of events, discussions, and exhibitions focused on the global climate agenda. Attendees can access the program at information stands in both the Blue Zone (official negotiations and decision-making) and the Green Zone (open to the public for exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events). Key topics include climate finance, adaptation, mitigation, and technology.

“Let’s Stand Together for a Green World!”

Under the theme "Let’s Stand Together for a Green World," Azerbaijan is calling on all nations to strengthen solidarity for a green, just, inclusive, and sustainable future. President Ilham Aliyev emphasized Azerbaijan's commitment to bridging the gap between developed and developing countries, seeking consensus, and making COP29 a success story.

Notably, the liberated regions of Karabakh and East Zangezur, along with the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, have been designated as green energy zones. The ongoing large-scale restoration efforts prioritize environmental protection, incorporating innovations like "smart city" and "smart village" concepts to restore the ecosystem.

By presidential decree dated December 25, 2023, Azerbaijan has declared 2024 the "Year of Solidarity for a Green World." Azerbaijan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 and 40% by 2050, compared to the base year of 1990. 

The COP29 conference is expected to serve as a significant platform for advancing global climate action and achieving tangible progress in combating climate change.

By Khagan Isayev