Welcome to an exclusive Ask Me Anything session with me, Stuti Mishra, The Independent’s Asia climate correspondent.
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The UN’s 29th annual climate summit (Cop 29) kicks off Monday in Baku, Azerbaijan, bringing together world leaders, activists, and experts to address urgent climate challenges.
A key focus this year is climate finance, with discussions centering on how to mobilize the trillions needed to cut emissions and support countries already suffering severe climate impacts. Leaders from the most affected nations are advocating for a new financial target, the “new collective quantified goal” (NCQG), to replace the $100 billion commitment from the Paris Agreement.
Despite rich nations’ responsibility to fund global climate action as part of the agreement to limit warming to 1.5°C, finance remains a divisive issue. Disagreements persist on how much is needed, who should contribute, what counts as funding, and which areas should be prioritized. The initial $100 billion goal, only met in 2022— two years late —now pales against escalating climate costs.
Adding complexity, Donald Trump’s re-election in the U.S. raises doubts about America’s involvement, given his past withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and rollback of environmental policies.
Other pivotal topics at the summit will include how we continue the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy and finalizing international carbon market regulations.
So, what could Cop29 mean for the future of climate action? Will nations make real progress on climate finance? And how might Trump’s return to power have an impact on the outcomes?
If you have a question about Cop29, submit it now, or join me live on 23 November at 8am for our “Ask Me Anything” event. I’ll be here to tackle as many of your questions as I can, from the financial stakes to the potential influence of U.S. politics on global climate action.
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