Distinguishing COP29 in Baku from COP17 in Yerevan Key differences explored

Armenia is set to host the 17th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity in 2026, the Convention Secretariat announced on the social media platform X.

📢#Breaking: Armenia will host the next United Nations Biodiversity Conference #COP17 🤝🌱

Armenia is set to welcome the upcoming @UNBiodiversity conference, reinforcing its commitment to global #biodiversity conservation. pic.twitter.com/tITM2cDi7G

— UN Biodiversity (@UNBiodiversity) November 1, 2024

As the conclusion of COP16 unfolds in Cali, Colombia, questions arise regarding the differences between COP17 and COP29, Caliber.Az reports.

These two events, integral to the multilateral climate process, vary significantly in their scope, objectives, and themes.

Here are the primary distinctions:

Theme and Scope

COP17 is associated with the “Convention on Biological Diversity” (CBD). This conference centers on the protection of nature and biodiversity, focusing on strategies to combat ecosystem degradation. Participants engage in discussions aimed at conserving and restoring natural habitats, safeguarding endangered species, and fostering sustainable practices regarding natural resources.

In contrast, COP29 falls under the “United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change” (UNFCCC). This larger forum is dedicated to the global battle against climate change, addressing critical issues such as achieving carbon neutrality, implementing climate adaptation strategies, securing climate finance, and advancing new technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Objectives

The primary goal of COP17 is to enhance international collaboration on biodiversity and ecosystem preservation.

Conversely, COP29 serves as a more ambitious platform for countries to negotiate and commit to reducing emissions while identifying financial and support mechanisms for the most vulnerable nations.

International Attention

While COP17 holds significant importance within the scientific community, it does not enjoy the same level of international visibility as climate conferences.

On the other hand, COP29, scheduled to take place in Baku, is expected to attract considerable global attention. World leaders and policymakers will convene to forge agreements that may shape the global economic and political landscape for years to come.

By Vafa Guliyeva