Introduction: The Changing Relevance of COP
In recent years, the essence of the United Nations Climate Conference, better known as COP, has shifted from what it once stood for. Historically seen as a paramount gathering for addressing climate crises through international cooperation, COPs now often witness power struggles between established industry giants and new green startups. Harvard Business School's Climate Rising podcast, hosted by Mike Toffel, delves into this transformation and explores the intricacies of present-day negotiations at these critical summits.
"The point of COP is no longer what it used to be." — Adam Grant
In this episode, Toffel discusses with Tom Rivet Carnack, a former UN political strategist and key architect of the Paris Agreement, and Paul Dickinson, the founder of the global nonprofit CDP. They'll explore how businesses sway global climate talks, why renewable energy struggles politically despite economic victories, and how national elections impact the implementation of decisions made at COP.
The Evolution of COP and Its Impact
Historical Context: From Kyoto to Paris
COP1, held in Berlin, marked the beginning of an international effort to tackle climate change. With Angela Merkel as the President of COP1, this was a stepping stone towards global climate governance. However, as Tom Rivet Carnack points out, the journey has been fraught with challenges due to political negotiations often lagging behind scientific necessities.
"Climate change is a problem caused by one group of countries with the worst impacts felt by another." — *Tom Rivet Carnack*
The Kyoto Protocol in 1997 was the first significant attempt at a unified global approach to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, due to its binding nature and the lack of universal buy-in, particularly from the U.S. Senate and subsequent pullouts by countries like Canada, its effectiveness was limited.
The Paris Agreement of 2015 marked the shift from prescriptive targets to nationally determined contributions (NDCs), where each country tailored its climate goals. This democratization aimed to account for economic realities and national interests while fostering a spirit of cooperation at the global level.
The Role of Business and Politics
Renewables, while economically viable, often face political hurdles. As Paul Dickinson notes, the shift from ambition to implementation is crucial. This transition necessitates a new form of politics wherein businesses must leverage their influence before, during, and after COPs. Harnessing peer pressure among nations, this strategy aims to encourage progress and adherence to climate goals set by agreements like Paris.
"The social responsibility of business is to make decarbonization profitable." — Paul Dickinson
COP as a Business Catalyst
COPs now serve as confluences not merely for negotiation but for catalyzing public-private partnerships. As business leaders gather with policymakers and NGOs, the focus shifts towards actionable commitments and collaborative climate solutions. The narrative has transitioned from drafting agreements to tangibly implementing climate strategies, marked by deals and alliances formed with government backing.
Preparing for COP 29 in Baku
Strategic Engagement and Expectations
In the lead-up to COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, businesses and governments focus on evaluating progress and setting the stage for future goals. The new collective quantified goal (NCQG), which aims to redefine financial flows from developed to developing countries, is crucial for facilitating both mitigation and adaptation.
"We need to determine the next round of funding and step up ambition for meaningful climate action." — Tom Rivet Carnack
The Intersection of Elections and Global Climate Policy
National elections, particularly in the U.S., play a significant role in how ambitious or restrained global climate policies are perceived and implemented. A cooperative US-China accord often precedes significant climate action, emphasizing the intertwined nature of national interests and global commitments.
The Broader Picture: From Decarbonization to Biodiversity
While COPs focus on reducing emissions, the biodiversity counterparts tackle ecosystems' preservation, crucial for climate stability. Understanding this dual approach is vital for comprehensive climate strategies, ensuring that efforts to curb emissions do not inadvertently harm biological diversity.
Conclusion: Looking Forward
The future of COP lies in moving beyond agreements to decisive actions that reflect the urgency of the climate crisis. As businesses seek to navigate COP's complexities, their role in shaping and implementing policies becomes ever more pronounced. With the US elections looming, the potential for a transformative COP in Belem, Brazil, in 2024, remains high, contingent on the collaborative international and national efforts displayed in Baku.
COPs illustrate that the fight against climate change is as political as it is environmental. The next steps in this journey depend on the agility and willingness of all parties to engage with vigor, transparency, and a genuine commitment to global stewardship.
UN CLIMATE CONFERENCE, BUSINESS INFLUENCE, COP, GLOBAL POLICY, CLIMATE CHANGE, YOUTUBE, RENEWABLE ENERGY, PARIS AGREEMENT