Experts call for zero-waste strategies to tackle climate crisis, create green jobs Within COP29 conference in Baku

Camila Aguilera, a consultant for Latin America and the Caribbean at the GAIA Advisory Centre, highlighted that cities worldwide could significantly reduce methane emissions and help keep global warming below 1.5°C by committing to recycling 70% of organic waste by 2030.

According to Aguilera, zero-waste strategies, such as waste separation at the source and the treatment of organic waste, can cut methane emissions from solid waste by up to 95%, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

"These approaches could also form the basis for creating green jobs, supporting local farmers, and expanding opportunities for waste collectors and waste treatment workers, ensuring a fair and sustainable transition. We urge city leaders to join this movement to build resilient communities and achieve long-term results," she emphasized.

In addition, according to Rueanna Haynes, head of the climate diplomacy team of the Alliance financial support is crucial for countries suffering the impacts of climate change to recover.

She made this statement during the panel session "Climate Justice and Equity" at COP29, noting that small island states are bearing the brunt of climate change, and substantial financial resources are needed for their recovery.

"For instance, income levels in Caribbean nations are lower than in other developing countries, and even access to loans is limited. These countries are suffering from the consequences of climate change, despite their minimal contribution to it. They are forced to take out loans to adapt to new conditions. I believe it is essential to increase such funding and broaden its sources," Haynes said.

Meanwhile, Türkiye is developing a climate law, as reported by Minister of Environment and Urban Planning, Murat Kurum, at the presentation of the "2024-2030 Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan" in the Blue Zone of COP29. The minister highlighted that the bill, which is expected to be submitted to Türkiye’s Grand National Assembly soon, should be passed by the end of the year.

Finally, global leaders must move from words to action in the fight against the global climate crisis, according to the Prime Minister of Eswatini, Russell Dlamini. "World leaders repeatedly talk about the need for urgent action and the urgency of climate change. But the situation does not change," he remarked.

For the Prime Minister, the most crucial issue remains climate finance. "Access to funding, particularly from the Loss and Damage Fund, should be simplified. Currently, obtaining funds takes far too long," he concluded.

By Aghakazim Guliyev