Foreign and Local NGOs establish “COP29 NGO Coalition

Bank ABB Announced as Principal Banking Partner for COP29

Bank ABB (The International Bank of Azerbaijan) – the largest financial institution in Azerbaijan – has signed up as the Principal Banking Partner for COP29, highlighting encouraging sustainable practice across the finance sector. With headquarters located in Baku, as well as 84 branches across Azerbaijan, Bank ABB is one of the leading banks in the South Caucasus region, serving more than 2.6 million customers. Bank ABB has demonstrated its commitment to climate action, having joined the UN Global Compact, an initiative promoting corporate social responsibility and adherence to sustainable development principles. Through this membership, Bank ABB is supporting its Sustainable Development Goals and advancing ESG standards. Bank ABB has also initiated the accreditation process with the Green Climate Fund, the financial mechanism of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change UNFCCC. With climate finance a key issue at COP29 this year, Bank ABB is keen to use the platform as a COP29 partner to affirm its important role in closing the climate finance gap, having already raised more than 100 million AZN in sustainable loans and building a project pipeline worth hundreds of millions of AZN. These funds are being directed to projects in renewable energy, green infrastructure, and sustainable technologies. Partnering with COP29 this year aligns with Bank ABB’s ambitions, which place a big focus on sustainable development and the efficient use of resources. Partners at COP29 will use the opportunity to engage with global climate policies, highlight their ongoing efforts on sustainability, and support the delivery of climate action transition in their key business areas. By partnering with COP29 in Baku, businesses can equally demonstrate the critical role they play in advancing green policies and supporting the global community in keeping the 1.5C target within reach. The Green Zone at COP29 will also feature a range of global businesses showcasing climate-friendly solutions, as a dedicated space for private sector organisations. Organisations will foster connections and advance climate action through a variety of programs, including presentations, workshops, and networking events. Participating businesses can also host their own events using conference facilities with theatre-style seating and various meeting room formats for enhanced visibility, collaboration, and networking. Commenting on the announcement of Bank ABB as Principal Banking Partner, Chief Operating Officer for COP29 Azerbaijan Narmin Jarchalova said, “I am thrilled to welcome Bank ABB as the Principal Banking Partner at COP29. With climate finance a central theme to this year’s COP, Bank ABB has a key role to play together with our other partners, in leading discussions on this critical subject and convening other stakeholders from the finance and investment sectors.” Announcing their COP29 partnership, Abbas Ibrahimov, Chairman of the Management Board at Bank ABB, stated, “As the Principal Banking Partner at COP29, Bank ABB strengthens its commitment to closing the climate finance gap. Climate change is no longer only an environmental concern; it is a pressing reality that threatens our economic and social stability. Addressing this challenge demands a proactive role from the banking sector. With the insights and partnerships forged at COP29, we are more dedicated than ever to advancing financial solutions that drive environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Together, we can create a resilient future by building an economic model that harmonizes business, society, and the planet”.

28 Oct, 2024

COP29 Announces Official Rent a Car Partner

Rent a Car Baku has been selected as the official vehicle rental partner for the COP29 Azerbaijan OC, providing car rental services to attendees of the international climate conference. This car rental service will also provide convenient transportation for the expected influx of international guests arriving in Baku for COP29, which will take place from November 11-22. Rent a Car Baku, COP29’s official vehicle rental partner, will efficiently manage all transport needs, offering a full range of vehicles - from sedans and hatchbacks to business-class cars, minibuses, buses, and SUVs - to suit all budgets. A driver service is also available. With a high volume of visitors expected for COP29, attendees are strongly advised to book their vehicles in advance via www.rentacarbaku.az to secure their preferred choice. Larger groups can contact Rent a Car Baku directly to arrange group bookings. While Rent a Car Baku is the official partner for COP29, attendees remain free to choose alternative providers. For booking inquiries, please contact cop29@rentacarbaku.az.

26 Oct, 2024

International Photo Contest “Children’s Eyes on Earth” Nears Deadline

The international photo contest "Children's Eyes on Earth," under the patronage of Leyla Aliyeva, Head of the IDEA Public Union, supported by the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, and initiated by internationally renowned photographer Reza Deghati, founder of "Reza Visual Academy", is nearing its submission deadline. Entries from children worldwide will be judged by experts in the first days of November. Launched on October 11th to raise awareness of climate issues in the lead-up to COP29 in Baku (November 11th -22nd ), the international photo contest "Children's Eyes on Earth" continues to accept submissions until October 31st . The contest values and invites young people to share their unique perspectives on nature and the challenges posed by pollution and climate change. A panel of renowned photographers will judge the entries over the next ten days. Under the banner "I Love Nature, I Fear Pollution," the contest aims to engage children and young people worldwide up to the age of 18 in raising global awareness of the severe challenges posed by climate change. It encourages them to use their photography to showcase potential solutions and refocus international attention on this critical issue. This project invites young people to express their love for the environment and their anxieties about the planet's future through the universal language of photography, helping them develop into environmentally responsible citizens. Winning photographs will be showcased in an exhibition at the "Heydar Aliyev Center", opening on November 18th, coinciding with COP29. The exhibition will be open to numerous international guests attending the conference. The organisers encourage young photographers worldwide to participate, share their perspectives, and make their voices heard. For more information and to participate, please visit the official website: https://childreneyes.earth.

25 Oct, 2024

Digital Transport Map Launched for COP29

In anticipation of visitors from around the globe arriving for the COP29 climate conference in Baku from November 11 to 22, the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company has launched a Digital Transport Map. This online resource provides key information on strategically located transport hubs, venue access and hotel accommodation enabling users to easily manage their transport requirements during COP29. The network of transport hubs covers strategic locations across the city and combines a range of routes and transport schemes. The hubs link delegates and visitors from their accommodation to Baku Stadium by providing easy access to a range of multi-modal transport options including shuttle buses, metro lines and metro stations and taxis. The newly launched Digital Transport Map – available on the COP29 website – is designed to show users where the key hubs are located. These hubs have been designed to optimise and simplify delegates’ journeys by effectively linking together journeys between hubs, the venue and accommodation throughout COP29. This user-friendly resource provides navigation to the Baku Stadium, including the Blue and Green Zones, Heydar Aliyev Airport, major hotels and residential complexes, along with the COP29 transport hub network and relevant shuttle services and express airport transfer routes. It also includes information on parking areas, bus stops, and pick-up and drop-off points. Users can select the most efficient routes for driving or walking between destination points by selecting the relevant fields on the digital transport map. The interactive transport map is one of several measures that the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company is introducing to effectively handle the influx of visitors during the conference, ensuring smooth and comfortable movement for both guests and city residents for the duration of COP29. Other measures being introduced include deployment of hundreds of taxis and close to 400 buses will be put into service, including express public buses, dedicated conference shuttles, and airport transfers, all aimed at providing reliable passenger transport services. Moreover, the Government of Azerbaijan is pleased to offer accredited participants access to complimentary city and airport shuttle services, as well as free access to public transport during the conference from the 11th- 22nd November. Free access to public transport in addition to the complimentary shuttle services for delegates goes beyond UNFCCC requirements and indicates how Azerbaijan is exceeding the expectations of the host country by ensuring delegates have access to several forms of free transport in Baku during COP29. To gain free access to the complimentary shuttle services and public transport (which includes the metro, trains, and regular buses) delegates must present their accreditation or letter of confirmation from UNFCCC. All information regarding access to the conference transport services can be found on the COP29 website. The interactive digital map encompasses just one part of the Operating Company’s approach to transport. The creation of this new, multi-modal transport system is designed to ensure a safe and frictionless travel experience, and the Operating Company’s planning and approach are shaped to fit around the entire, end-to-end experience that a passenger will have during their stay in Azerbaijan. From the moment they set foot in the airport, to getting to and from their accommodation, as well as accessing the venue. Our strategy brings together a whole of government approach across multiple agencies that are helping to facilitate each step of the way.

24 Oct, 2024

Winners Announced for International Photo Competition “Climate Action in Focus”

The winners of the international photo competition “Climate Action in Focus”, organised by the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, have been announced. This initiative was established to raise awareness about climate change and contribute to environmental protection efforts. Launched on August 1st, the competition, which has now come to a close, invited photographers from around the world to join the climate conversation through visual storytelling, shining a spotlight on urgent climate issues and raising awareness. The project highlighted the significant role of photography and the arts as a catalyst for climate action. Nearly 20 photographers from around the world submitted their original works to capture the impacts of climate change on various aspects of our lives from different perspectives. Alongside Azerbaijani photographers, artists from the United States, Germany, Spain, Italy, Poland, Hungary, Russia, India, Argentina, Myanmar, Nigeria, Tajikistan, Nepal, Iraq, and Afghanistan participated in the competition. After by a jury of professional photographers, the winners have been announced. First place was awarded to Myanmar photographer So Pyay Lynn for his powerful image titled Hard Life. Hungarian photographer Adam Fath earned second place with his evocative piece, Flowers of the Drying Lake, while Nigerian photographer Adebote Mayowa secured third place for his work Makoko. These images highlight the global impact of climate change, encouraging viewers to consider solutions to this collective challenge and promoting a deeper understanding of the issue. An exhibition showcasing selected photographs from the project will take place on November 20 at the Azerbaijan Pavilion within the Green Zone during COP29. Situated within this hub of climate action, the photo exhibition will provide participants and winners with the opportunity to convey their messages to a global audience through their artworks. Moreover, it will facilitate networking and enhance international awareness of the critical issues showcased.

24 Oct, 2024

Media Workshop Held on ESG Reporting

On October 21st, the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, in partnership with Coca-Cola Azerbaijan, hosted a workshop for media representatives on understanding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reports and how to correctly interpret them. Due to the increasing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reports within the context of sustainable development, the workshop aimed to equip 60 local media representatives (from television and information agencies) with insights into the comprehensive definition and analysis of ESG reports. The workshop sought to promote greater awareness of ESG reporting and encourage the use of practical analytical methods. At the opening of the event, Ayan Najaf, a member of the Coordination Board and Spokesperson for the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, alongside Elshad Farzaliyev, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability for Eurasia and the Middle East at Coca-Cola Azerbaijan, delivered welcoming addresses. They underscored the vital role of the media in shaping public discourse on sustainability issues, noting the importance of ESG reports in communicating information accurately and impactfully to the wider public. The workshop featured a keynote presentation from Serdar Turan, Editor-in-Chief of Harvard Business Review Türkiye, who offered a thorough overview of the significant changes in the business landscape and the pivotal role that sustainability plays in shaping these ESG developments. He also covered topics such as shifting habits in news consumption, the contrast between traditional and digital news strategies, and the importance of embracing diverse viewpoints. Following this, Coca Cola’s Elshad Farzaliyev, examined the solutions essential for securing a better future, illustrating his points with Coca-Cola’s sustainability policies and practices as a prime example. The workshop continued with presentations from leading experts at PwC Azerbaijan, including Leyla Sadikhova, Senior Manager of Legal and Sustainability/ESG, and Gunay Asgarova, Senior Manager of Assurance and Advisory Services (CMAAS) in Accounting and Sustainability. They offered participants valuable insights into reading and analysing ESG reports, as well as the legal framework governing ESG in Azerbaijan. In addition to the workshop session, the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company also hosted a briefing session that featured several informative presentations. This included: Ismayil Isayev, a member of the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company’s Coordination Board; Kamal Mammadov, Head of the Accessibility Department; Ilkin Javadov, Head of Visitor Experience; Orkhan Mahmudlu, Head of Transport and City Operations; and Pirim Pirimov, Director of Media Operations. Each of these spokespeople provided participants with insights into COP29 operations and readiness to host the conference, addressing key topics such as media services, visitor experience, accommodation options, transportation, and catering.

22 Oct, 2024

COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company rolls out Sustainable Energy Solutions at Conference Venue

The COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company will implement sustainable energy solutions at the conference venue as part of a commitment to promote sustainability across all aspects of the event and minimise environmental impact. To support this goal, hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) is being used as an important source of power for Baku Stadium, the venue for COP29. The Operating Company is organising the COP29 Conference based on a sustainability policy that features seven commitments. The first of these commitments is achieving carbon neutrality by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through renewable energy use, energy efficiency, and offsetting unavoidable emissions. The second is encouraging sustainable practices such as reducing single-use plastics, promoting sustainable transportation, and adopting environmentally friendly procurement. One of the priority initiatives that fits under these two commitments is the selection and use of hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) as an alternative to fossil fuels for powering parts of the venue. This effort is designed to support the significant reduction of GHG emissions associated with energy use during the conference. Hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) is a low-carbon fuel source, with the emissions released during its combustion offset by the carbon dioxide absorbed by the biomass used in its production, making HVO a more sustainable alternative to conventional fossil fuels. HVO significantly lowers harmful pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulphur oxides (SOx), enhancing air quality in and around the venue. In addition to HVO, renewable energy will power other sections of the venue throughout the event period. This innovative programme will be implemented with the support of SOCAR Green, the COP29 Energy Transition Partner, which has been instrumental in securing the necessary volumes of HVO to power the venue. This reflects Azerbaijan’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and the country's broader goal to transition to a low-carbon energy future. The COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company is confident that this approach will serve as a model for other international events and will reinforce its commitment to hosting a sustainable and carbon-neutral conference.

22 Oct, 2024

Sustainability Training for Local Hotels in the Lead-Up to COP29

In preparation for COP29, scheduled to be held in Baku from 11th to 22nd November, the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, together with the State Tourism Agency, and the Azerbaijan Hotel Association is taking significant action to bolster sustainability competencies across all key members of staff. In support of this, hotels across Baku are participating in specialised training sessions. The training sessions, designed in line with the Sustainability Guidelines developed by the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company and conducted by specialists from the relevant departments, aim to boost the sustainability potential of the local hotel sector whilst aligning with international standards. These sessions target hotels across Baku, the Absheron Peninsula, and Sumgayit. These sessions aim to ensure local hotels adhere to high safety standards and expand their knowledge of principles such as inclusivity and accessibility. The Sustainability Guidelines created by the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company for the hotel and hospitality sector incorporate the latest international best practices. The guidelines tackle key issues, such as the promotion of responsible resource management, support for the local economy, and the assurance of inclusivity, all aimed at achieving positive ecological, social, and economic outcomes. A central focus of the guidelines is to promote inclusivity, highlighting that all hotel infrastructure and services, from when guests first enter the building, must be safe and accessible for every visitor. The guidelines also encourage collaboration with local businesses and suppliers to reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector, recommending the implementation of appropriate infrastructure and practices to conserve energy consumption and vital resources such as water. They also strive to reduce waste production - including plastics - and advocate for the creation of efficient management systems for recycling processes.

22 Oct, 2024

Initial Registration Figures for COP29 Revealed

The registration process for delegations from various countries participating in the COP29, hosted by Azerbaijan this November, is progressing smoothly. As of the current date, the number of participants who have successfully registered for COP29 has surpassed 32,000. It is noteworthy that the registration process for this international climate conference commenced on June 24 of this year. Interest from diverse countries around the globe to participate in the conference is evident through the daily rise in registered attendees. Considering the tendency for most delegations to register closer to the conference date, a further increase in registration numbers is expected in the coming weeks as the process moves forward. The COP29, to be held in Baku from November 11-22, will serve as a main platform for shaping international climate policy and will be the focal point for discussions on combating climate change worldwide. Preparations are ongoing to welcome thousands of representatives from numerous countries to Baku for these critical discussions.

21 Oct, 2024

COP29 Presidency publishes final texts of Declarations and Pledges for upcoming UN Climate Summit

The COP29 Presidency today published the final texts of nine Declarations and Pledges as part of its Action Agenda for the upcoming UN climate summit in Baku this November. These documents provide pathways for all global actors to come together and commit to enhanced ambition across key climate priorities. The COP29 Presidency’s Action Agenda, first outlined in an open letter to Parties and Constituencies in September, is a comprehensive set of initiatives designed to complement the formal UNFCCC negotiation process. While not part of the official negotiations, these Declarations and Pledges aim to catalyse action and ambition across all sectors of society. With the final texts now published, government and non-government stakeholders have the opportunity to endorse these documents, which will be formally launched at the COP29 climate summit in November. The texts, finalised following a period of public consultation, include: COP29 Truce Appeal COP29 Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge COP29 Green Energy Zones and Corridors Pledge COP29 Hydrogen Declaration COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action COP29 Declaration on Reducing Methane from Organic Waste COP29 Multisectoral Actions Pathways (MAP) Declaration to Resilient and Healthy Cities COP29 Declaration on Enhanced Action in Tourism COP29 Declaration on Water for Climate Action The COP29 Truce Appeal has already gained significant traction, with support from 127 countries and nearly 1,100 non-state actors. It calls for a pause in conflicts during the COP29 period to reduce emissions from military activities and promote global peace. In line with the COP29 Presidency’s two-pillar plan for the year, the Declarations and Pledges aim to enhance ambition across all climate pillars. They present opportunities for governments to incorporate sectoral targets into national climate plans and for stakeholders to agree on principles to strengthen collective climate efforts. Alongside the Declarations and Pledges, the COP29 Presidency will release a programme of Presidency-hosted events for the UN climate summit. These sessions will bring together relevant stakeholders for focused discussions on thematic items and serve as platforms to launch the various declarations. COP29 President-Designate Mukhtar Babayev said: "These Declarations and Pledges are vital tools to drive progress on climate action. They send strong market signals, help direct financial flows, and foster a sense of shared responsibility. I call on all parties and non-state actors to endorse these documents and help build momentum ahead of COP29. While signing these pledges alone will not deliver the changes we need, they play a significant role in supporting the COP29 Presidency’s vision to enhance ambition and enable action." He added, "The final texts reflect valuable input from a wide range of stakeholders, demonstrating the power of inclusive and transparent processes in addressing the climate crisis. We thank our partners for their collaboration throughout this process. We are particularly encouraged by the early support for the COP Truce Appeal, which highlights the interconnectedness of climate action and global peace." These initiatives are designed to complement, not replace, the critical work of the formal UNFCCC negotiations. They provide additional avenues for commitment and action, particularly for non-state actors who play a crucial role in the global response to climate change. The Presidency encourages all stakeholders to review the final texts and consider endorsing these important climate initiatives, which collectively aim to accelerate progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement.

21 Oct, 2024