Climate science excellence set for global stage at COP29

An interdisciplinary delegation of staff and students from the University of Reading are set to join climate leaders from across the world in Baku for COP29.

From November 11-22, 2024, a team from the University's Walker Institute will engage with global leaders, showcase groundbreaking research, and contribute vital scientific insights to international climate policy discussions.

The University's presence will combine physical and virtual participation, featuring a core team on the ground in Baku while enabling broader engagement through remote attendance back at the Whiteknights campus. 

Professor Rosalind Cornforth, Director of the Walker Institute, said: "COP29 comes at a crucial time in our fight against climate change. The global community faces urgent decisions about climate adaptation and mitigation. Our role is to ensure these decisions are grounded in robust scientific evidence, particularly regarding support for vulnerable nations."

The Walker Institute has led the University's COP involvement for almost a decade and is an accredited official observer. Representatives of the Institute are co-hosting two official events focusing on Transboundary Climate Risks as part of the implementation of the COP28 Declaration on Climate, Relief, Recovery and Peace.

Researchers will discuss methods and tools for viable climate adaptation options in fragile, conflict-affected settings. These events will take place on Thursday 14th November - 1830-2000, Blue Zone, and Saturday, 16th November - 1300-1500, UN Pavilion.

Along with the University's representation in Baku, early-career environment scientists at Reading will participate in the innovative COP Climate Action Studio (COPCAS), enabling them to engage with global climate policy discussions remotely.