COP28: A Summary
The recently concluded COP28 brought together global leaders, innovators, and policymakers in a defining moment of collective action to combat climate change. Over the course of the event, thematic days unfolded, offering a comprehensive view of the collective efforts towards a sustainable future globally.
December 1st & 2nd: World Climate Action Summit
176 world leaders convened at the World Climate Action Summit (WCAS), heralding a new era of climate action. The summit rallied the international community behind a shared commitment to expansive and urgent climate action, setting the stage for ambitious targets aligning with the Paris Agreement’s Global Stocktake.
December 3rd: Climate and Health Ministerial
The first-ever Health Day in COP history showed the COP28 Presidency’s commitment to holistic action addressing humanity’s priorities. The Climate-Health Ministerial witnessed over 110 health ministries uniting to exchange experiences and pledge $777 million to accelerate progress against Neglected Tropical Diseases.
December 4th: Finance, Trade, Gender Equality and Accountability Day
This day highlighted the translation of climate ambitions into tangible actions. A roundtable discussed the design of the $30 billion Altérra Climate Fund, while the UAE announced a Climate Finance Forum for 2024. Multilateral development banks also made significant commitments towards clean energy and climate targets.
December 5th: Energy, Industry and Just Transition Day
The technical synthesis report underscored the urgent need for a 43% reduction in emissions by 2030 to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The day witnessed strides in emission reductions, emphasising an inclusive and just transition.
39 countries endorsed the COP28 Declaration on Hydrogen & Derivatives, agreeing to mutually recognise existing standards for green hydrogen and to unlock the hydrogen economy. They also endorsed the ISO methodology for greenhouse gas emissions assessment of hydrogen.
December 6th: Multilevel Action, Urbanisation & Built Environment / Transport Day
This day underlined the pivotal role of cities in mitigating climate change. Key stakeholders showcased initiatives to transform the built environment and reshape transport infrastructure for sustainable urbanisation.
December 8th: Youth, Children, Education and Skills Day
Children, youth and educators took centre stage for the first time in the history of COP, where their energy and inspiration were leveraged towards the acceleration of climate action. The day amplified young voices and showcased demands in international climate policy negotiations, providing a platform for children and youth-led climate initiatives and solutions. The day focused on greening schools and their curricula, as well as strengthening green skills.
December 9th: Nature, Land Use and Ocean
Political leadership underscored the integration of climate and nature action, emphasising ecosystem protection and working with indigenous peoples to ensure resilient lives and livelihoods.
December 10th: Food, Agriculture and Water
The final day highlighted the transformation of food systems crucial to fulfilling the Paris Agreement, underscoring the urgency to address climate impacts on agriculture and the critical need to manage water resources sustainably.
Ged Barlow, chief executive at Net Zero North West, said: “We welcome the conclusion of the COP28 climate summit, which saw global leaders commit to transitioning away from fossil fuels and accelerating efforts to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We are particularly encouraged by the added urgency for emission-slashing this decade, a crucial step in tackling the climate crisis we face.
The commitment demonstrated by world leaders marks a milestone in our collective effort to address climate change. It signals a recognition of the need for immediate and bold action to safeguard our planet and future generations. As we navigate this pivotal decade, time is of the essence, and we must seize the opportunity to significantly reduce emissions and strive for a sustainable future. Whilst it has been challenging to reach an agreement which all parties can sign up to, the greater commitment from developed and emerging countries to accelerate use of renewables, presents an excellent opportunity to use the new knowledge and innovations developed in the North West to make a truly global impact.
The challenge ahead of us is immense, but it is not insurmountable. Net Zero North West stands ready to lead the charge towards a net zero future in the UK, ensuring that our region becomes a shining beacon of sustainability. Together, let us take decisive action, embrace innovation, and leave a lasting ecological legacy for generations to come.”
