As the world grapples with the pressing issue of climate change, Canada has positioned itself as a critical player in fostering consensus at this year’s international negotiations, according to Environment and Climate Change Minister Steven Guilbeault. Despite apprehensions stemming from Donald Trump’s recent triumph in the presidential election, Guilbeault remains optimistic about the impending talks, emphasizing the urgency of unified action to prevent global temperatures from exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius.
The upcoming negotiations in Azerbaijan are anticipated to be fraught with tension, as countries convene to chart out new objectives concerning climate finance and develop fresh national climate strategies. Amidst this backdrop, Catherine Abreu, a prominent Canadian climate policy expert, points out the pervasive cynicism surrounding the outcomes of these talks. With emissions soaring higher than ever, the heavy reliance on fossil fuels, and a surge in oil lobbyists at summits, Abreu acknowledges the challenges but underscores the profound impact of the agreements forged within this sphere on global climate action.
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What is COP29?
COP29, the 29th annual conference of the parties under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, will unfold from Nov. 11 to 22. These talks have yielded momentous climate accords, such as the Kyoto Protocol in 1997 and the Paris Agreement in 2015, calling for stringent climate targets to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Against this backdrop, Canada’s focus will revolve around defining a new climate finance objective, with an emphasis on aiding developing nations in their climate transition. -
What are Canada’s priorities?
At the forefront of Canada’s agenda is the establishment of a revised climate finance goal alongside the urging of fellow nations to craft ambitious national climate blueprints. The litmus test for success lies in securing financial commitments that can underpin these ambitious initiatives. Canada, with a history of brokering climate finance talks, is poised to reprise its role as a bridge builder and advocate for equitable access to financial resources. -
Who’s going?
Notable absences from Alberta and Saskatchewan’s premiers underscore lingering dissonance on how to advocate provincial interests on a global stage. The shrinking COP guest list, from 85,000 participants last year to 32,000 this year, reflects the evolving dynamics of climate diplomacy. Despite mounting challenges, Guilbeault exudes confidence in the U.S.’ continued engagement under the Biden administration, dispelling apprehensions arising from the looming shadow of Trump’s contentious climate policies. - A brief glossary of climate policy jargon to help navigate COP29
Navigating the complex realm of climate policy jargon calls for decoding ubiquitous acronyms like NCQG (new collective quantified goal), NDC (nationally determined contributions), and IRA (Inflation Reduction Act). These terms, deeply intertwined with the fabric of climate negotiations, demystify the lexicon of climate action and underscore key policy initiatives vital to steering global climate policy.
In a world increasingly facing the brunt of climate change, the collective efforts at COP29 in Azerbaijan are poised to shape the trajectory of global climate action. As the meeting unfolds, the resolve to forge robust climate goals and foster multinational cooperation remains paramount in tackling the climate crisis head-on. Let us heed the call for unified action and sustainable solutions to safeguard our planet for generations to come.
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