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Writer's pictureHolly Naylor

What is COP, and Why Should We Care?

Updated: Oct 26

The Conference of the Parties, commonly known as COP, is a pivotal global event under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Since its inception in 1995, COP has brought together representatives from governments, businesses, non-governmental organisations and civil society to address climate change.


COP is a series of conferences that aim to assess progress in managing climate change, negotiate binding agreements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and develop strategies to limit the global temperature increase to below 2°C, ideally limiting it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.


COP has become a cornerstone of international climate action. The most notable talks happened in Paris in 2015. In this historic agreement, 195 countries pledged to reduce emissions and limit global warming by 1.5°C. The agreement is now known as the Paris Agreement. However, developed and developing nations disagree over climate financing and emission reductions. 



But why should we care? 

The impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident. Extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and shifting ecosystems threaten livelihoods, economies, and communities across the globe. The outcomes of COP directly influence policies, regulations and funding decisions that affect how countries adapt to and mitigate climate risks.

COP also provides a platform for collaboration and innovation where organisations can collaborate to share solutions, develop green technologies and create frameworks for climate finance. COP sets the stage for global cooperation, driving necessary changes to create a more sustainable and resilient future. 


Where is COP29?

From November 11-22, 2024, representatives from nearly 200 countries will come together in Baku, Azerbaijan, for COP29, the 29th Conference of the Parties. This gathering is an increasingly urgent opportunity for nations to discuss, negotiate and advocate for global climate action. Delegates will update climate goals, report on progress, and present new plans to tackle climate change. 


COP29 Key Topics

These key topics will be discussed in COP29:

  • Clean energy transition: The global shift from fossil fuels to renewables requires urgent emissions reduction by 2030 to maintain the 1.5°C target.

  • Nature and people: Climate strategies must protect vulnerable communities through inclusive adaptation measures.

  • Climate finance: Developing nations need accessible funding to address climate impacts. COP29 will advance new frameworks and existing commitments.

  • Inclusive action: COP29 emphasises Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and marginalised groups in climate decision-making.


What’s COP16?

COP16, the 16th UN Biodiversity Conference, will be held from October 21 to November 1, 2024, in Cali, Colombia. This separate event is critical for scaling global action on nature, with over 190 countries reviewing their biodiversity strategies. The theme, "Peace with Nature," reflects the urgency of halting biodiversity loss by 2030. COP16 will focus on finance, equitable resource access, and monitoring progress towards key biodiversity targets.


The growing impacts of climate change, including extreme weather, rising seas, and ecosystem shifts, impact global communities and economies. COP shapes how countries like Singapore respond through policies and funding. It enables international collaboration on green technology and climate finance, leading to practical changes globally.

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