COP29 opens in a more perilous context than ever for the climate

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🗞️ Driving the news: COP29 opens amid unprecedented geopolitical and economic pressures, further complicated by Donald Trump’s re-election, which could see the U.S. withdraw from the Paris Agreement once again, undermining global climate goals

🔭 The context: COP29, hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan—a major fossil fuel exporter—faces obstacles like regional conflicts, economic strains, and low engagement from G20 leaders
• This "financial COP" is crucial for securing funds to support climate initiatives in developing nations, yet attendance from key global leaders remains limited

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Trump's win and potential U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement threaten the 1.5°C target, while low participation from top emitters at COP29 could further derail climate action at a critical moment for global commitments

⏭️ What's next: With Trump’s policies looming, COP29 aims to reinforce the Paris Agreement despite challenges, setting up for COP30 in Brazil—a milestone marking the agreement’s 10-year anniversary and critical to its future viability

💬 One quote: "From now on, Baku will be a success if everyone stays together to pursue climate action" – Laurence Tubiana, key architect of the Paris Agreement

📈 One stat: The United States accounts for about 14% of global CO₂ emissions and its involvement in the Paris Agreement is crucial, as the pact’s 1.5°C target depends significantly on the actions of the U.S. and other major emitters to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

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