The United Nations resumed climate talks on Monday in Baku, Azerbaijan, with renewed optimism as climate and environment ministers joined the COP29 negotiations. After slow progress last week, their arrival is expected to provide much-needed political momentum to address lingering disagreements and forge a deal.
“We are in a difficult place,” said Melanie Robinson of the World Resources Institute. “The discussion hasn’t yet reached the political level, but when it does, ministers will work to make a deal.”
The talks focus on securing funding for developing nations to transition from fossil fuels, adapt to climate impacts, and address damages from extreme weather. Experts estimate the required sum at $1 trillion. Rachel Cleetus from the Union of Concerned Scientists warned, “One trillion will seem like a bargain in five to ten years given recent extreme weather, from Spain’s floods to U.S. hurricanes.”
Meanwhile, the G20 summit is underway in Brazil, gathering the world’s largest economies. Climate change, alongside issues like poverty and rising global tensions, is on the agenda.
UN Climate Change chief Simon Stiell urged G20 leaders to make the climate crisis their top priority, emphasizing their “mission-critical” role in driving progress both within and beyond formal climate negotiations.
Also read: Mike Johnson Open to Recess Appointments for Trump’s Cabinet Picks Amid Senate Delays
