By: Keya Debnath
My name is Keya Debnath. I am a second-year MPP student at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy. Attending COP29 at the stunning Baku Olympic Stadium has been a unique and impactful experience. The global scale, with participants spanning governments, NGOs, academia, and the private sector, reflects the collaborative spirit needed to address the pressing challenges of climate change.
One of the most engaging sessions I attended was at the Brazil Pavilion, where water safety and security were the focal points. As Brazil prepares to host COP30, the discussion underscored the significance of managing water resources in a rapidly changing climate. The panel highlighted the intersection of technology, equity, and regional cooperation in addressing water challenges, making it clear that sustainable solutions require innovation and inclusive governance. They expressed key promises to ensure pure water supply and waste management. Another particularly moving moment was the screening of ActNowFilm, which showcased how climate change drives human displacement. The film brought to life the experiences of individuals facing climate induced migration. Following the screening, two young leaders from Kenya and Gambia shared their personal stories, emphasizing the need for youth voices in shaping climate policies. Their plea for meaningful inclusion and recognition of their lived experiences was a powerful reminder of the human impact of climate inaction.
Another noteworthy session involved discussing sustainable farming practices with Azerbaijan’s secretary of Agriculture. The conversation revolved around innovative solutions like drone technology, environmentally friendly fertilizers, and reducing chemical use to achieve productivity without compromising environmental health. This session illuminated how targeted policies, and cutting-edge technology can create sustainable agricultural frameworks. Meeting U.S. Ambassador Mark Libby was another highlight. His approachable and insightful responses to questions about U.S.-Azerbaijan relations and broader regional dynamics showcased the vital role of diplomacy in advancing global climate objectives. This interaction reaffirmed the importance of partnerships in tackling interconnected challenges. It was a remarkable experience for me to be the ambassador.
I attended a session at the U.S. Pavilion in blue zone on leveraging clean energy technologies to unlock private capital for net-zero transitions. The panel explored mechanisms like public-private partnerships to accelerate renewable energy investments. This session resonated deeply with my interest in climate financing and provided valuable insights into aligning policy frameworks with financial mechanisms to drive meaningful outcomes.
Outside the formal sessions, exploring Baku has been an incredible experience. From wandering the historic Old City to marveling at the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, the city’s heritage and modern charm captivated me. Sampling diverse cuisines, including Indian, Azerbaijani, and Georgian dishes, added a delightful cultural flavor to my visit. Additionally, the group I traveled with provided enriching discussions on the future of climate financing and the challenges posed by rapid climate change. Their thought-provoking questions pushed me to think more critically about the path ahead. I am going to a negotiator’s meeting on the Green Climate Fund to learn more about how this event is going to wrap up.