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US Senator Sheldon Whitehouse expressed pride in participating in the COP29 conference taking place in Baku. He stated this at a press conference during the event, Day.Az reported on Saturday with reference to Trend.
According to the senator, the fight against climate change poses many challenges.
“Much of the climate work in the United States takes place at the state and municipal level. When you look at California, the fifth largest economy in the world, and New York, the tenth largest, it is clear that together they can achieve significant results.
The climate problem is already a reality, and we are feeling its consequences. Global organizations and individuals making key decisions need to take climate facts into account. Investment managers, bankers, CEOs and corporate boards must adapt to the new climate,” he stressed.
It should be noted that on November 11, the opening of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) took place at the Baku Olympic Stadium, which will last until November 22. The event is the largest organized by Azerbaijan to date, and is the first time it is being held in the region in Azerbaijan.
As part of COP29, the highest level event was held on November 12-13 - the summit of world leaders on climate action.
The key expectation from COP29 is to agree on a fair and ambitious New Collective Quantitative Goal (NCQG) for climate finance.
As well as being a top priority and enabling action, creating climate finance will also contribute to the 1.5°C commitment by bringing everyone together.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. The abbreviation COP (Conference of Parties) translated from English means “Conference of Parties”, this is the highest legislative body that controls the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change.
There are 198 countries that are parties to the Convention. Unless the parties agree otherwise, the COP is held annually. The first COP event took place in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn.
What specific climate policies have been successful in California and New York that Senator Whitehouse highlights in his interview?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse
Editor: Welcome, Senator Whitehouse! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today at COP29 in Baku. You recently expressed your pride in attending this crucial event. Can you share with us what this conference means for climate action on a global scale?
Senator Whitehouse: Thank you for having me! Attending COP29 is indeed a proud moment. This conference brings together leaders, policymakers, and advocates from around the world to address one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change. It’s a unique opportunity for collaboration and to reinforce our commitment to achieving impactful climate solutions.
Editor: You mentioned the significant role of state and local governments in fighting climate change, using California and New York as examples. What specific strategies have you seen from these regions that you believe can be implemented more broadly?
Senator Whitehouse: Absolutely. Both California and New York have implemented aggressive renewable energy policies, including investments in solar and wind power. They’ve also set ambitious emissions reduction targets and developed innovative public transportation systems. These initiatives demonstrate that when states take bold steps, they can lead the way and inspire others. It’s essential for national policies to reflect this localized momentum.
Editor: It’s clear that the climate crisis is no longer a distant threat. You, along with many leaders, emphasize that we are already feeling its consequences. How do you see the role of global organizations and decision-makers adapting to meet these urgent challenges?
Senator Whitehouse: Global organizations must prioritize climate facts and integrate them into the very core of their decision-making processes. Investment managers, bankers, and CEOs need to account for climate risks in their strategies, moving beyond mere compliance to proactive leadership. Climate change should be seen as an opportunity for innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth.
Editor: At COP29, what key challenges do you think are most pressing for the delegates here, and how can they address them effectively?
Senator Whitehouse: One of the biggest challenges is the disparity in resources and capabilities between developed and developing nations. We need to create pathways for financial and technological support for those nations that are still grappling with the immediate effects of climate change. Collaboration and forging partnerships are vital. Delegates here must foster dialogue that bridges these gaps and results in actionable commitments.
Editor: As someone deeply engaged in climate policy, what message would you like to resonate with the younger generation who will inherit the world’s challenges?
Senator Whitehouse: My message to the youth is that your voices matter immensely. Advocacy, activism, and engagement can drive real change. It’s essential for young people to hold leaders accountable and demand ambitious climate actions. Remember, the future is not predetermined—it will be shaped by the decisions we make today.
Editor: Thank you, Senator Whitehouse, for your insights and commitment to fighting climate change. We appreciate you taking the time to share your perspectives with us today.
Senator Whitehouse: Thank you for having me! Let’s continue the fight for a sustainable future together.