The 26th edition of the annual ‘Conference of the Parties (COP26) starts today. The conference aims to bring parties together to accelerate action towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Key themes for COP26
MITIGATION
Secure global net zero and keep 1.5 degrees within reach.
ADAPTATION
Urgently adapt to protect communities and natural habitats.
MOBILISE FINANCE
Green transformation of financial systems.
COLLABORATION
Work together to deliver.
The conversations held during the conference can turn the tide on global warming and avert the worst effects of climate change. But COP26 is lacking adequate representation of voices from the island and Indigenous communities — primarily due to COVID-19 and travel restrictions.
Hilda Heine
Former President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
“Unlike other states and countries, people from island nations have nowhere to retrat to – the ocean is in our backyard.” name=”Hilda Heine” subtitle=”Former President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands”
The environmental impacts of climate change Heine is concerned about are evident in the latest IPCC report. This report confirms that, without immediate action, the climate crisis will continue to escalate and disproportionately impact marginalized communities.
News and key insights
Today’s Island-related events
Climate and the Deep Sea World: Schmidt Ocean Institute’s Global Efforts – A Visual Journey and Panel – GREEN ZONE EVENT
Time: 10:00 – 12:00
Location: Cinema Auditorium, Green Zone, Glasgow
Organization: Schmidt Ocean Institute
Although seemingly remote, the deep sea plays a key role in our climate. This event will feature exclusive, award-winning, video content from deep-sea waters showcasing new species and underwater features with interviews from scientists around the world discussing the impact of climate change on these fragile ecosystems.
Special invitation
Caribbean Sustainability and Prosperity: Climate Finance as a Driver for Climate Action
Date and Time: Wednesday 10 November – 10:00am EST, 15:00pm BST
There are a wide range of opportunities for sustainable development projects in the Caribbean region – but for them to be successful there needs to be greater access to finance. What projects are being unveiled in the region, and where can they source funding to support their vision? The Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator seeks to unlock financing for sustainable solutions in a bid to create the world’s first climate-smart zone. With climate adaptation and mitigation funding for island and developing nations set to be a core topic at COP26, now is the time to move towards action for the region.
COP26 has just started. Keep following our daily bulletins for insights and decisions made during the conference.