Author: Kayla Fericy

Reflections from the Plane: COP29 and the Lingering Challenges

Sitting on a plane, nine hours into the second of three flights, I find myself teetering between the desire to disconnect from the whirlwind of COP29 and an insatiable need to understand what just unfolded. The irony is not lost on me: in an era demanding global unity for climate action, my journey away from COP29 mirrors the disjointed progress we’ve made as a collective.

The end of COP29 was nothing short of chaotic. By the time I reached the airport, the plenary session had been rescheduled—yet another sign of the chronic inefficiency plaguing these conferences. The pavilions had been dismantled, many delegates were already on their way home, and yet, critical agenda items remained unresolved. With access to live updates through WhatsApp groups dedicated to all things COP, I couldn’t escape the unfolding drama, and disappointment quickly set in.

Article 6: A Stumbling Block in Global Carbon Markets

One of the most contentious topics at COP29 was Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which governs international carbon markets and non-market approaches. Despite years of negotiation, progress remains painfully slow. While the framework technically exists, the operational details—such as how to prevent double-counting of emissions reductions and ensure transparency—are still being hammered out.

The lingering delays on Article 6 are frustrating because this mechanism holds immense potential. If designed effectively, it could incentivize investment in clean energy projects across the globe, particularly in developing nations. However, instead of building trust and collaboration, the negotiations at COP29 revealed deep divides. The Global South, which has the capacity to contribute significantly to climate solutions, remains sidelined financially. Meanwhile, wealthier nations stall, failing to provide the promised support.

Without resolving Article 6, the global carbon market risks being little more than a patchwork of national systems, leaving the Paris Agreement’s ambitions unattainable.

• Article 6.2: Allows countries to engage in cooperative approaches by transferring mitigation outcomes internationally, provided they adhere to robust accounting standards to prevent double-counting of emissions reductions.

• Article 6.4: Establishes a centralized UN-supervised mechanism to generate tradable carbon credits from emission reduction projects, aiming to ensure environmental integrity and promote sustainable development.

Instead of building trust and collaboration, the negotiations at COP29 revealed deep divides. The Global South, which has the capacity to contribute significantly to climate solutions, remains sidelined financially. Meanwhile, wealthier nations stall, failing to provide the promised support.

Without resolving Article 6, the global carbon market risks being little more than a patchwork of national systems, leaving the Paris Agreement’s ambitions unattainable.

NCQGs: A Global South Perspective

Another critical issue that shaped COP29 was the debate over New Collective Quantified Goals (NCQGs) for climate finance. These goals, meant to replace the outdated $100 billion target set over a decade ago, are crucial for scaling up financial flows to address the climate crisis.

Developed nations committed to mobilizing $300 billion annually by 2035 to support developing countries in their climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. This figure represents a tripling of the previous $100 billion annual target set in 2009. However, this commitment falls short of the $1.3 trillion per year that many developing nations and experts deem necessary to effectively address climate challenges. The “Baku to Belém Roadmap to $1.3tn” initiative was introduced to strategize on scaling up climate finance to meet these needs, with further discussions anticipated at COP30 in Belém, Brasil

For the Global South, the NCQGs are more than a financial commitment—they represent an opportunity to rectify historic injustices. Developing nations have long emphasized that they need adequate funding to adapt to climate impacts and transition to low-carbon economies. Yet, as the negotiations dragged on, it became clear that wealthier nations were reluctant to commit to meaningful targets or timelines.

The lack of decisive action on NCQGs underscores a troubling dynamic: while the capacity exists in many Global South countries to implement ambitious climate projects, the resources don’t follow. Instead, financial support remains locked behind bureaucratic hurdles and political posturing.

Final Takeaways: COP29’s Missed Opportunities

As I reflect on COP29, I can’t help but feel a mix of hope and frustration. On one hand, the pavilions and side events were filled with innovative ideas, passionate advocates, and glimpses of what is possible. On the other hand, the official negotiations were mired in delays, watered-down commitments, and a troubling lack of urgency.

The failure to deliver meaningful support to the Global South remains a glaring issue. These nations are often the most vulnerable to climate change yet are expected to carry out ambitious plans without the financial backing they were promised. It’s not a lack of capability that holds them back, but rather the broken promises of those who wield the most power.

Looking ahead to COP30 in Brasil, I can’t shake the feeling of impending chaos. As agenda items are pushed down the road, the pressure on Brasil to deliver a breakthrough will be immense. However, without structural changes to how these negotiations are conducted, it’s hard to imagine a different outcome. The risk is that COP30 becomes yet another platform for delay, culminating in an explosion of unmet expectations.

Hope Amidst the Frustration

Still, hope persists. The voices of youth activists, indigenous leaders, and grassroots movements are growing louder. These groups are increasingly shaping the conversation and holding negotiators accountable. If COP29 taught us anything, it’s that the energy and solutions exist—we just need the political will to match.

As I prepare for my next flight, I remain both exhausted and determined. The road to climate justice is long, but it’s one we must travel together. Here’s hoping COP30 brings us closer to the action we so desperately need.

As COP29 moves into its second week, the surreal world of climate negotiations has proven to be both fascinating and disillusioning. If you’ve ever been to Disneyland and observed the fervor of adults collecting pins, you’ll understand the unexpected dynamics of this climate conference. Pavilion pins have become the unofficial currency of COP29, their acquisition a game of connections, timing, and persistence. This lighthearted but competitive phenomenon encapsulates the layers of exclusivity and camaraderie that define the broader negotiations taking place here in Baku.

The Pavilion Pin Craze
The scramble for pavilion pins is nothing short of a spectacle. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) pin, for instance, vanishes by 9 a.m. each day, and whispers about secret stashes circulate among attendees like urban legends. Some pavilions tuck their pins away in mysterious back rooms, accessible only to VIPs. While it might seem trivial, the pin frenzy reflects a deeper truth: at COP29, networking and visibility are as critical as the technical aspects of negotiation. Everyone is vying for a piece of representation, whether through symbolic pins or substantive policy wins.

The Reality of COP29: Finance Takes Center Stage
Dubbed the “Finance COP,” COP29 has a heavy focus on the economic mechanisms underpinning global climate action, from loss and damage funding to new collective quantified goals (NCQGs) for climate finance. For someone with little interest in finance, this emphasis has been both overwhelming and frustrating. Key deadlines for resolving issues like loss and damage funding and setting NCQGs have come and gone without resolution. These delays highlight the challenges of aligning priorities among developed and developing nations, a dynamic that continues to stall meaningful progress.
Despite this financial focus, grassroots and community-based solutions shine as beacons of hope. Pavilion panels showcase a wealth of scientific innovations and local efforts to combat climate change, even as formal negotiations falter. These grassroots movements remind us that real climate action often happens outside the conference rooms, driven by people who refuse to wait for bureaucratic consensus.

Health at the Forefront
For me, following health-related discussions has provided a much-needed focus amid the maze of technical jargon and policy debates. The intersection of health and climate is gaining traction as a critical topic, with panelists emphasizing the urgent need to address climate-related health risks. From heat-related illnesses to the spread of vector-borne diseases, the health impacts of climate change are immediate and tangible, making this area of discussion particularly impactful.
These panels have also underscored the disproportionate burden faced by vulnerable populations, where the lack of infrastructure and resources exacerbates health crises. While the overarching negotiations feel stalled, these focused dialogues offer a glimpse of what meaningful collaboration could achieve.

Pavilion Panels: A Source of Optimism
The pavilions at COP29 are where optimism thrives. They bring together scientists, community leaders, and activists to share innovative projects and success stories. From renewable energy pilots in remote areas to climate-resilient agriculture initiatives, these presentations are a stark contrast to the gridlock of the formal talks. They’re also a reminder of the power of collective action at the grassroots level—a sharp contrast to the exclusivity of pin collecting and high-level negotiations.

The Stalemate: Loss and Damage and NCQGs
One of the most frustrating aspects of COP29 has been the lack of progress on critical issues like loss and damage funding. Developing nations, which are disproportionately affected by climate change, continue to push for financial mechanisms that ensure accountability and equitable support. Meanwhile, developed nations wrestle with balancing their domestic priorities against global responsibilities. The NCQGs—a framework for future climate finance commitments—are another contentious topic, with nations unable to agree on numbers, timelines, or accountability measures.
These delays have cast a shadow over the conference, raising questions about the efficacy of the COP process. If these critical issues remain unresolved, the credibility of future climate summits could be at risk.

Reflections: Beyond the Negotiations
COP29 has been an eye-opening experience, far removed from the idealized vision I had before arriving. It’s a space where high-stakes negotiations coexist with the absurdities of pin-collecting and pavilion chatter. Yet beneath the chaos, there is a persistent undercurrent of hope and determination. Whether through the resilience of grassroots movements or the urgency of health-focused discussions, the fight against climate change continues, even when the formal process seems paralyzed.
As the second week unfolds, the question remains: will COP29 deliver the breakthroughs needed to meet our climate goals, or will it serve as yet another reminder of the complexities and limitations of global diplomacy? Only time will tell, but for now, the Disneyland of climate negotiations remains as colorful and convoluted as ever.

The opening day of COP29, the 29th annual Conference of the Parties under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), was a whirlwind—a storm of jet lag, uncertainty, and a steep learning curve. Over the course of 72 hours of travel, I had managed a mere six hours of sleep, only to find myself thrust into the epicenter of global climate policy. As an environmental engineer focused on global health, I knew this conference would be crucial to shaping the future of my work. What I didn’t anticipate was how lost I would feel on Day 1.

Navigating Day 1: A Lesson in Overwhelm

My work revolves around protecting water quality post-disaster, a task made more challenging by the escalating intensity of storms driven by climate change. I knew that addressing this issue required an understanding of policy frameworks like the UNFCCC. But as I stepped into COP29 armed with a two-week blue zone badge and a loose plan to absorb everything, I quickly realized that my expectations were unrealistic.

The sheer scale of the conference was intimidating. High-level negotiations buzzed alongside dynamic pavilion presentations and intimate side events. My engineering background left me ill-prepared for the intricate policy language and the complex landscape of stakeholders.

Rather than diving into meaningful sessions, I spent most of Day 1 simply wandering, overwhelmed by the enormity of the task ahead. I felt isolated, unable to connect my technical expertise with the broader policy discussions unfolding around me. Day 1 ended with me feeling more out of place than ever.

Turning the Tide on Day 2

Day 2, however, was a revelation. It began with a RINGO (Research and Independent Non-Governmental Organizations) meeting, which provided me with a clearer understanding of COP logistics. This was a game-changer. I secured tickets for specific events and gained insights into navigating the conference more effectively.

From there, I attended a U.S. delegation briefing, where I encountered other students who were just as eager to learn and contribute. Sharing experiences and strategies with peers transformed my experience, offering me a newfound sense of belonging.

The most transformative moment of the day came when I pushed myself to network—a skill I’ve historically found uncomfortable. I approached individuals who seemed too important or experienced to have time for someone like me, only to discover their willingness to engage. These conversations opened doors to invaluable advice about integrating science into policy, reinforcing the idea that every voice has a place in these discussions.

Joint Panel on Methane and Non-CO₂ Greenhouse Gases

A highlight of Day 2 was attending the joint panel discussion co-hosted by Azerbaijan, China, and the United States, focusing on methane and other non-CO₂ greenhouse gases. This session underscored the critical need to address all emissions, that significantly contribute to global warming. The collaboration between these major emitters signaled a unified approach to tackling climate super pollutants, emphasizing the importance of immediate action and international cooperation.

Opening Statements from Countries

The opening statements from various countries set the tone for COP29. President Mukhtar Babayev of Azerbaijan urged decisive action, stating that climate change is already causing suffering and needs immediate leadership and action. UNFCCC Climate Chief Simon Stiell stressed the necessity of setting a new global climate finance goal, warning that without adequate funding, both emissions reduction and global economic stability are at risk. These statements highlighted the urgency and collective responsibility required to address the climate crisis.

Lessons Learned

Day 2 taught me that preparation and connection are key to making the most of COP. While Day 1 left me floundering in unfamiliar jargon and an overwhelming schedule, Day 2 was about grounding myself—finding people who could guide me and sessions that aligned with my goals.

Most importantly, stepping out of my comfort zone allowed me to grow. Socializing with professionals, initiating conversations, and building a network weren’t just necessary—they were empowering.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my journey at COP29, I’m carrying forward the lessons from my chaotic first day and my illuminating second day. I’m learning how to navigate the intersection of science and policy, how to advocate for issues like water quality in the context of climate resilience, and how to use this experience to shape my career.

COP29 isn’t just a conference—it’s a microcosm of the challenges and opportunities that come with addressing global climate change. And as I move forward, I’m reminded that even in the most overwhelming situations, persistence, adaptability, and connection can transform confusion into clarity.