COP29 in Azerbaijan: A turning point in fight against climate change - OPINION

The debate surrounding climate change has long divided the scientific community. While some dismiss it as a baseless notion pushed by developed nations to hinder progress in developing countries, others recognize it as the most pressing issue facing humanity today. According to scientists who acknowledge the reality of climate change, the crux of the problem lies in the Earth's capacity to absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases.

These gases, much like the glass panels of a greenhouse, trap and retain heat from the sun, creating the necessary warmth for life to thrive on our planet. Without these gases, scientists estimate that the average annual temperature on Earth would plummet to a frigid -19°C. CO2 and other gases form an invisible protective belt in the upper layers of the atmosphere, shielding us from excessive heat by trapping the sun's warmth. They play a vital role in maintaining the optimal temperature for human life and normal functioning.

However, since the mid-20th century, the concentration of CO2 and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has skyrocketed due to industrial development and the burning of organic substances for energy. This rapid increase leads to a greater amount of solar heat being trapped in the atmosphere, causing temperatures to rise globally, even in regions with minimal industrial activity. The absence of boundaries in the atmosphere and the free movement of CO2 in the air cause temperatures to rise even in places where the aforementioned sources are poorly developed or non-existent. This phenomenon is called global warming.

Climate change is a direct threat to human development. It affects all countries and everyone in the world. However, the world's poor are more vulnerable to climate change. They stand on the brink of danger and have very few resources to combat it. Climate change creates various obstacles to achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and increases inequality within and between countries. If not addressed in time, climate change will engulf not only poorly developed countries but also wealthy nations and future generations.

It is encouraging that the issue of climate change is now beginning to concern not only the scientific community but also ordinary people, government officials, and politicians.

In an interview with Report, Dr. Nariman Pashayev, head of the Department of Economics and Geography at the Institute of Geography named after Academician Hasan Aliyev, emphasized that Azerbaijan must take substantial measures to combat climate change.

"Global climate change affects people's lives and economic activities. If drought occurs in one area, floods, landslides, and mudslides happen in another. People try to adapt to these changes, but currently, there is a global drought prevailing worldwide," stated Dr. Pashayev.

He believes that hosting COP29 in Azerbaijan can boost efforts to address climate change. "The COP event, previously held in various countries, will take place in Azerbaijan this November. Until now, developed countries have been fighting climate change, and we started in 2015. COP29 is of great importance for Azerbaijan as it can increase attention to processes such as soil protection, restoration of geological diversity, and creation of water basins, ultimately enhancing people's care for the environment," he added.

The geographer noted that the consequences of climate change are clearly visible in Azerbaijan. "The greatest impact has been around the Caspian Sea, where the sea has receded by at least 200 meters from Samur River to Astara River, with some areas experiencing a 300-meter retreat. The effects of drought are evident in Azerbaijan, and the water level in the Kura River has also decreased, although this year's heavy rainfall has slightly increased the water level," he explained.

Dr. Pashayev emphasized the need to adhere to the provisions of the Paris Agreement, with the main goal being to keep the 1.5°C target within reach and not to overlook any country, especially COP participating countries. "The environment is extremely polluted, causing rising temperatures. Glaciers in the Arctic, Antarctic, and Caucasus are already melting. The Paris Agreement is crucial for Azerbaijan, as every piece of waste and carbon emission hinders longevity. Countries must understand that the world is united, and everyone should protect their territory with care, fighting pollution together. So far, 28 such conferences have been held. Now it is held in Azerbaijan. COP measures show that everyone should protect their territory with care. There should be a joint fight against pollution. We have also supported the Paris Agreement and took obligation in this regard. By 2030, we must reduce pollution and the amount of waste. This reduction should be achieved by at least 35 percent. These are massive issues. They take long research and hard work," he stressed.

The department head also highlighted that one of COP29's most significant achievements will be the transition to alternative energy. "Azerbaijan heavily relies on oil and gas, while some countries use coal. However, these resources are depleting, necessitating a shift to alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, water, and tidal energy, which are clean and inexhaustible. Azerbaijan has committed to using 30% alternative energy by 2030, currently at 7-10%, with the potential to increase it to 80% in Nakhchivan and Karabakh," he noted.

Dr. Pashayev emphasized that increasing the number of recycling plants in Azerbaijan is essential to reduce pollution and maintain a stable global temperature. "All production facilities should minimize waste discharged into the environment, and extensive training should be provided. Baku has only one waste recycling plant, while valuable raw materials are discarded daily. Each region should have at least one waste recycling plant to meet our needs. Thanks to those plants, waste must be reprocessed. In this regard, COP29 will create the foundation for the creation of new jobs worldwide," he concluded.