COP29: Azerbaijan's path to sustainability

As the world turns its attention to the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 29), Azerbaijan stands poised to take on a leadership role in the global movement toward sustainability and climate resilience, according to Report, which cites an article by Moiz Farooq, the Executive Editor at Pakistan Economic Net and Daily Ittehad Media Group.

The article notes that with its rich natural resources, strategic initiatives, and commitment to sustainable development, Azerbaijan is uniquely positioned to leverage COP 29 as a transformative opportunity to enhance its environmental and economic future.

According to the author, under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has made significant strides in promoting environmental sustainability and addressing climate change. President Aliyev has consistently emphasized the importance of integrating environmental considerations into the country’s development strategy. His vision for a sustainable Azerbaijan is reflected in numerous national policies and international commitments aimed at reducing the country’s carbon footprint and enhancing environmental protection.

Azerbaijan, located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, has been proactive in its approach to climate change, becoming a signatory to the Paris Agreement in 2016. The government has set a target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. Despite these commitments, Azerbaijan faces challenges in diversifying its economy and reducing its dependency on fossil fuels.

President Aliyev has been instrumental in advancing the "Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development" plan, which places a strong emphasis on sustainability. His administration has prioritized investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable infrastructure, positioning Azerbaijan as a forward-thinking nation in the fight against climate change. Azerbaijan’s geographical advantages provide it with substantial renewable energy potential, particularly in wind and solar power. The country has already embarked on significant projects to harness these resources, such as the groundbreaking Khizi-Absheron wind farm, which is set to become a beacon of sustainable energy development in the region. At COP 29, Azerbaijan can showcase its renewable energy projects as exemplars of innovation and commitment. By highlighting its achievements and future plans, Azerbaijan can attract international investments and partnerships, further accelerating its transition to a clean energy economy.

Azerbaijan is a driving leader in regional climate cooperation, leveraging its strategic position and diplomatic influence to foster collaborative efforts. The country plays a crucial role in initiatives aimed at protecting the Caspian Sea and promoting sustainable development across the region. Through his leadership, Azerbaijan can spearhead regional environmental initiatives, driving collective action on climate change and strengthening ties with neighboring countries. COP 29 offers a platform for Azerbaijan to highlight its role as a regional hub for sustainability and cooperation. Azerbaijan’s commitment to sustainable development is matched by its efforts to secure climate financing to support its ambitious projects. The country has engaged with international financial institutions to attract funding for initiatives that reduce emissions and enhance resilience. At COP 29, Azerbaijan can further strengthen its financial partnerships, ensuring that it has the resources needed to implement its climate projects effectively. By securing funding, Azerbaijan can continue to invest in infrastructure and technologies that drive sustainable growth and development.

The country’s agricultural sector is vital to its economy, and the country is committed to ensuring its sustainability in the face of climate change. By adopting innovative agricultural practices, Azerbaijan is enhancing productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Efficient water management is also a priority, with Azerbaijan investing in advanced irrigation systems and conservation measures. These efforts ensure the sustainable use of water resources, crucial for both agricultural productivity and overall economic stability. Under President Aliyev’s leadership, Azerbaijan recognizes the importance of public engagement in achieving its climate goals. The government has launched initiatives to educate citizens about sustainability and empower them to contribute to climate action. By fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, Azerbaijan is building public support for its climate policies and encouraging individual action to combat climate change. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that sustainability becomes an integral part of Azerbaijani society.

Azerbaijan’s proactive approach to climate change, combined with its strategic initiatives and international partnerships, positions it as a leader in the transition to a sustainable future. COP 29 presents a unique opportunity for Azerbaijan to reinforce its commitment to sustainability and showcase its achievements on the global stage. As COP 29 approaches, Azerbaijan is ready to seize the opportunity to demonstrate its leadership in climate action and sustainable development. By leveraging its natural resources, innovative projects, and regional influence, Azerbaijan can set a powerful example for other nations. Under President Ilham Aliyev's guidance, the decisions made and actions taken at COP 29 will not only shape Azerbaijan’s environmental and economic future but also contribute significantly to the global effort to combat climate change. Azerbaijan’s engagement at COP 29 is not just a commitment to sustainability but it is a bold step toward a brighter and more prosperous future for all.

Under the leadership of Azerbaijan, COP29 will be a force for good connecting North, South, East, and West and mobilizing the international community to make progress on halting global warming.

Azerbaijan has made green growth one of the key priorities of development. The President of Azerbaijan declared the 2024 as 'Year of Solidarity for a Green World' to foster momentum on climate action at a national level and beyond.

Today, Azerbaijan is a regional leader in green energy transition. In recent years, they have been prioritizing green projects all over the country. They are developing smart cities and villages in the liberated territories. Garabagh and East Zangezur Economic Zones, Nakhichevan Autonomous Republic will be net zero emission zones by 2050. By 2030, the share of renewables in the installed capacity of electricity generation in Azerbaijan will reach 30%.

Moiz Farooq mainly writes on Foreign Policy, Economy, CPEC, Azerbaijan-Pak and Sino-Pak relations, and Climate.