PORTUGAL AT THE UN COP29

 

Energy and Environment Minister, Maria da Graca Carvalho

Portugal has been contributing positively to the United Nations COP29 summit held in Azerbaijan. Unfortunately, the conference, which began on Monday 11, and concludes next Friday, has been mired in controversy and has so far failed to foster essential international cooperation. 

Despite the challenges at COP29, Portugal arrived at the summit with concrete initiatives, including a revised, and more ambitious Energy and Climate Plan aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. 

Portugal has also established an on-site pavilion, hosting 55 initiatives including conferences, presentations, and debates throughout the 11-day COP29 event on major issues, such as the need for greater climate action, present and future energy supplies, resource efficiency, water, and biodiversity. The Portuguese pavilion is also holding joint initiates with the international community of Portuguese-speaking countries, as well as European institutions. These presentations underscore Portugal’s proactive role in fostering global dialogue and offering actionable solutions on pressing climate challenges.

All of Portugal’s priorities align with those of the European Union, with a primary focus on meeting the 2015 COP21 Paris Agreement pledges to limit global temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius. 

The current emphasis is on urging the world’s wealthiest nations and largest greenhouse gas emitters to provide adequate funding to poorer countries critically impacted by global warming. These impacts include desertification, food insecurity, and shortages of drinking water. This funding approach aims to provide dual benefits—relieving financial burdens while accelerating climate adaptation and mitigation efforts in vulnerable nations. A figure of 100 billion dollars or more, per year, discussed at prior summits, is frequently cited, but wealthier nations have been reluctant to commit to such contributions despite their responsibility for much of the damage. These financial commitments are vital not only for addressing the current climate crisis but also for fostering trust and equity among nations, which are essential for long-term cooperation.

Portugal’s leadership at COP29 is highlighted by its high-level delegation and innovative proposals. Leading Portugal’s COP29 delegation, Minister of Energy and Environment, Maria da Graca Carvalho, has highlighted Portugal’s intent to transform millions paid to former colonies from their national debts into climate investment funding. She emphasised, “to move forward globally in terms of climate change, it is fundamental that we increase the funding target for climate change, broadening the range of contributors for this. Currently, some of the biggest polluters in the world are not doing enough. The European Union has led this effort with funding and clear policies. Now we want to see the other major blocs and nations matching our level of commitment.” 

Portugal’s determined approach at COP29, from its ambitious carbon neutrality goals to its call for equitable climate funding, serves as a vital reminder of what is at stake. As the summit progresses, such leadership will be crucial to navigating the complexities of global cooperation and ensuring the world remains committed to a sustainable future. 

Meanwhile, it remains uncertain what can be achieved at this year’s COP summit, especially with the absence of many key world leaders, given the vital role of global cooperation in significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and keeping the world’s average surface temperature within 1.5C (2.7F) of pre-industrial levels. 

Written by Len Port

Edited by Catriona Anderson.