Why Baku? Unpacking COP29's Host City Choice and What We Can Expect

Understanding COP29 and its Significance

The 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) is a pivotal moment in the global effort to address the climate crisis. Taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 11 to 22 November 2024, COP29 brings together world leaders, climate experts, and negotiators to agree on coordinated action to tackle climate change. This conference is significant as it provides a platform for countries to present their updated national climate action plans under the Paris Agreement, which aim to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Additionally, COP29 is crucial for mobilising climate finance, which is essential for supporting the transition to clean energy and addressing the impacts of climate change. The decisions made here will shape the global climate agenda and determine the pace at which we can mitigate the climate crisis.

Why Baku for COP29 Climate Change Conference?

“Why Baku, where even is Baku, and why hold a climate change conference there?” That’s what everyone’s asking as COP29 kicks off. Here’s a look at the strategic (and yes, perhaps political) thinking behind the choice.

COP29 is being held in Baku, the largest city in Azerbaijan, set in the heart of the South Caucasus. With around 2.3 million residents, Baku is a blend of modernity, industry, and heritage, including its UNESCO-listed Old City. The United Nations Framework Convention organises climate change conferences like COP29 under the UNFCCC umbrella, emphasising the importance of international agreements to limit climate change and promote sustainability. But beyond its unique charm, the choice to host COP29 here highlights the pressing environmental, political, and geographical realities of this region. Let’s unpack why.

Key Reasons for Choosing Baku as COP29’s Host

1. Geographical Representation

Each year, COP’s location shifts to bring new perspectives to the climate agenda. This year, Central Asia and the Caucasus are in the spotlight—a region often overlooked but facing severe challenges like water scarcity and desertification. Hosting COP29 in Baku brings attention to these pressing issues, positioning this region on the global climate agenda.

2. Vulnerability and Climate Impact

Azerbaijan and its neighbours are particularly vulnerable to climate change, facing rising temperatures and a worrying reduction in water resources. Over recent decades, Central Asia’s water availability has dropped by up to 15%, and in Azerbaijan, nearly 70% of that precious water is used for agriculture. Without adaptation, grain yields across the region could fall by up to 30% by 2050, putting livelihoods at risk. By holding COP29 in Baku, there’s an undeniable focus on building resilience for 85 million people facing these climate threats.

3. Energy Transition and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Intensity

Azerbaijan’s economy is closely tied to oil and gas, with around 60% of its energy coming from fossil fuels. Hosting COP29 here is a reminder that even the most energy-intensive economies must embrace greener practices and diversify. Some might argue that it’s about protecting revenues, but it also highlights the need for global solutions that include, rather than exclude, countries like Azerbaijan. The message? Change is hard but necessary, and every economy has a part to play. Multilateral development banks are expected to facilitate climate finance and leverage additional capital for sustainable development projects, focusing on innovative financial mechanisms to support climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.

4. Strategic Location for Global Engagement

Baku is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it a natural meeting point for voices from the East and West. This strategic location is ideal for fostering collaboration, bridging differences, and driving solutions that reflect a diverse set of perspectives. By bringing COP29 to Baku, there’s an opportunity to encourage climate action in a region where the stakes—and the potential for impactful action—are high. Adhering to international agreements under the United Nations Framework Convention is crucial for limiting climate change and promoting sustainability.

Global Cooperation and Ambition

Global cooperation is crucial for addressing the climate crisis, which is a global problem requiring a global response. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change is a global agreement aimed at mitigating climate change, and COP29 is a key moment for countries to demonstrate their commitment to enhancing ambition and taking action to address the climate crisis. The conference provides an opportunity for countries to share knowledge, showcase climate action, and highlight diverse climate change issues. Global cooperation is essential for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement, which include limiting global warming to well below 2°C and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. By fostering collaboration and unity, COP29 aims to drive collective action that can make a significant impact on the global climate agenda.

Science and Climate Reports

The United Nations publishes key reports on climate impacts and solutions, which provide critical information on the current state of the climate crisis and the actions needed to address it. These reports highlight the urgent need for climate action and provide guidance on how to achieve a more sustainable future. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the leading international body for the assessment of climate change, and its reports provide a comprehensive understanding of the science behind climate change. The IPCC reports emphasise the need for immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy sources. By grounding policy decisions in scientific evidence, COP29 aims to ensure that the global response to the climate crisis is both effective and informed.

Five Positive Outcomes We Can Hope for at COP29

1. Increased Climate Action Commitments

Many nations are likely to set more ambitious targets, with renewed pushes toward carbon neutrality. The key question remains: will these commitments go beyond words and lead to real action?

2. Climate Finance Focus

There’s likely to be a renewed focus on financing climate adaptation, especially in vulnerable regions. Funding has been promised before, but will COP29 move us from pledges to genuine support?

3. Nature-Based Solutions

Expect a strong focus on nature-based solutions like mangrove planting, forest conservation, and regenerative agriculture. These approaches tap into nature’s own ability to capture carbon and maintain biodiversity, offering solutions that are both practical and powerful.

4. Technology-Driven Talks

AI, carbon capture, and renewable innovations are expected to be key topics at COP29. These tools hold massive promise, but scaling them up will be essential to meet global climate targets.

5. Youth and Indigenous Voices

There’s an increased commitment to amplifying the voices of youth and indigenous communities—those who are often most directly affected by climate change. Their perspectives bring urgency and fresh ideas that are essential for driving progress.

A Shared Challenge, A Collective Solution

While some of us may feel a sense of deja vu with each COP, COP29 offers a real opportunity to drive meaningful change, especially in the unique context of Baku and the South Caucasus. But the question remains: will we see transformative action or just another round of ambitious but unfulfilled promises?

If you’re ready to be part of the solution rather than watching from the sidelines, we’re here to help. At SkootEco, we’re dedicated to creating a cleaner, greener, and more connected world. Whether you’re looking for advice on implementing sustainable practices or tools to measure your carbon impact, we’ve got you covered.