A high-level opening session of the Green Digital Action track was held Thursday to strengthen cooperation on sustainability in the digital technology industry on the sidelines of COP29 in Baku, Report informs, citing the Azerbaijani Ministry of Digital Development and Transport.
The session was organized by the ministry, COP29 Presidency, International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and UN Office of Information and Communications Technology.
"The Green Digital Action initiative creates a strong example of how the industry can lead the green transition and strengthen climate resilience," said ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, adding: "The Green Digital Action Declaration that will emerge after Digital Day will show us the path forward."
Azerbaijani Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Nabiyev emphasized the need for a balanced approach prioritizing sustainable infrastructure and environmental impact to fully utilize the potential of digitalization as a powerful tool in fighting climate change: "Only through digitalization can we achieve the speed, precision, and flexibility needed to ensure a sustainable future."
The discussions emphasized the necessity of reducing emissions in the technology sector and technology's role in environmental solutions.
The session continued with thematic discussions on digitalization and climate action, demonstrating successful cooperation. The key results and progress updates of the multilateral Green Digital Action throughout the year were highlighted.
Speakers noted that the session marks the beginning of a dynamic program highlighting the important role digital solutions can play in solving environmental problems and building a sustainable future for all. Thus, the Green Digital Action track at COP29 is intended to promote active participation, and meaningful dialogue, and spark innovative ideas in joint climate action.
It was noted that the series of discussions and seminars will focus on the importance of sustainability standards, the path to Net Zero in the ICT sector, using artificial intelligence to combat climate change and early warning systems.
The Green Digital Action initiative is one of 14 global initiatives included in the COP29 Presidency's Action Agenda. This initiative is not just a single event, but also a call to create sustainable momentum by ensuring digitalization based on innovation and sustainability remains a priority in future COPs.
The final event of the initiative within COP29 - a high-level roundtable on Green Digital Action - will be held on the first Digital Day, November 16, during COP29.
The event will be attended by government and private sector representatives from various countries worldwide, including global leading partners in the ICT field.
The roundtable will discuss several critical topics, including the integration of digital innovation into climate strategies, enhancing climate monitoring with digital tools, promoting digital inclusivity, and reducing the environmental impact of digital technologies.
At the end of the roundtable, a final document - the Declaration on Green Digital Action - is expected to be adopted with the participation of all stakeholders for a sustainable and green world.
The Declaration on Green Digital Action is a significant step in recognizing the potential of digital technologies in fighting climate change while also promoting sustainable and inclusive practices.