Reporting from week 2 of COP 28!
Greetings from the bustling heart of COP28! As I find myself amidst the whirlwind of discussions, workshops, and impassioned dialogues, it’s hard to contain the excitement and energy that permeates this global congregation for climate action. Here, in the middle of the action, I’m eager to share a glimpse of the experiences and insights that have defined my journey at COP28 so far. To be honest, it can be overwhelming at first. The first day went by trying to inhale the million things happening at Expo city, wishing if only you had the ability to create clones of yourself and attend every event. It is “Everything Everywhere All at Once!” At least you get better at time management and creating daily plans!
I have spent most of my initial time so far attending events in the Blue Zone, particularly being captivated by the Country and NGO pavilions. Innovation pulses through the veins of COP28, with each exhibit and session showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions. From renewable energy breakthroughs to sustainable agriculture practices, the commitment to finding innovative solutions is palpable. These were vividly evident to me through pavilions of China, Korea, Qatar, Estonia and many more. Exploring these innovations has not only broadened my understanding but has fueled a sense of optimism that tangible change is not only possible but underway.
Of the many events taking place around the Blue zone, I was scraping through to find events that spoke about local experiences with biodiversity conservation and community engagement at the heart of it. Despite having a dedicated day for celebrating Indegenous People at COP28, I found their stories not represented enough or perhaps it was my inability to trace all of it. Again- its “Everything Everywhere All at Once”. Nevertheless, I managed to sit in a few from tiger conservation in Bhutan and Amazon restoration projects to the Arctic conservation by the Inuits.
Throughout my exposure to various country pavilions and other side events, one resonating aspect from all their experiences is the significant of climate finance. The undeniable truth is that the impacts of climate change are not borne equally, and the need for financial support to empower developing nations in their climate efforts takes center stage. Financial support enables these countries to set and achieve more ambitious climate goals, from transitioning to renewable energy sources to implementing sustainable land-use practices. The infusion of capital facilitates the acceleration of projects that might otherwise be delayed or deferred due to financial constraints. Nevertheless the developments at COP28 on climate finance seem evolving and hopeful, but still a lot more clarity and effort can be drawn towards leveling the playing field towards a truly global solidarity against climate crisis.
Tashi Choden
