Environment Takes Centre Stage As Global Summits Loom

AFP/APP

Paris: As urgent environmental issues take center stage, the United Nations is set to host four significant conferences over the coming months, addressing pressing threats to the planet. These include global warming, biodiversity loss, desertification, and plastic pollution.

Biodiversity Conference in Colombia

The first event, a Conference of the Parties (COP16) dedicated to biodiversity, will take place in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1. This biennial gathering aims to enhance global cooperation in protecting the diverse plant and animal life essential to our ecosystems.

While COP16 may not introduce groundbreaking new policies, it will evaluate progress since the last summit, where nations committed to protecting 30% of the planet’s ecosystems by 2030. Observers are hopeful that Colombia will showcase effective national strategies to inspire other countries.

Climate Change Summit in Azerbaijan

Following the biodiversity conference, the world’s foremost climate change summit, COP29, will be hosted by Azerbaijan from November 11 to 22. This year’s agenda prioritizes climate finance, focusing on the commitment of wealthier nations to support developing countries facing climate vulnerabilities.

Negotiations may become complicated following the U.S. elections just days before the summit, which could influence discussions on funding and support, especially as developing nations advocate for increased financial aid beyond the previously pledged $100 billion.

Desertification Conference in Saudi Arabia

The third event, addressing desertification, will occur in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 2 to 13. This COP is expected to be less publicized but remains crucial in tackling the degradation of fertile land due to climate change and human activities.

Experts aim to establish strategies for restoring 1.5 billion hectares of land by 2030 and managing the droughts that many regions are currently experiencing.

Final Session on Plastic Pollution in South Korea

Finally, a pivotal session focused on plastic pollution will be held in South Korea beginning November 25. Following an agreement by 175 nations in 2022 to negotiate a treaty addressing plastic waste, this session aims to forge a comprehensive international response to the pervasive issue of plastic contamination.

Debate is anticipated regarding whether the treaty should restrict plastic production or focus on recycling, with advocates pushing for solutions that prioritize reduction over recycling.

As these critical conferences approach, the world watches closely to see how nations will come together to address these urgent environmental challenges.