Baku: The COP29 Sustainability Report was published today, APA-Economics reports. The report highlights the serious measures taken to make COP29 one of the most sustainable global climate conferences ever organized. During the Azerbaijan COP29 Presidency, sustainability principles were integrated into all stages, from planning to implementation and legacy, and new standards were set for future hosts.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the main line of this initiative is the seven sustainability commitments of COP29. These commitments include achieving net zero, where the event was powered by 100% renewable energy and unavoidable emissions were offset, making it the first climate conference in Azerbaijan to achieve net zero. Sustainable mobility was also a key focus, with 160 electric vehicles providing low-emission transport for over 70,000 delegates.
A zero landfill policy was implemented as part of waste management, with waste sorting, recycling, and large-scale composting taking place. For green procurement, eco-certification requirements were set for all strategic suppliers, and 95% of food products were sourced locally, reducing emissions from transportation. The event also prioritized inclusivity and accessibility, offering comprehensive functional accessibility, including sign language services and barrier-free infrastructure.
Local capacity building was another significant focus, with over 3,000 volunteers, staff, and government representatives trained in sustainability, creating a long-term legacy of skills. Transparency and legacy were ensured through the publication of the COP29 Sustainability Report, which documents all achievements and provides a roadmap for future chair countries.
COP29 also achieved ISO 20121:2024 certification for sustainable event management, demonstrating that even an event of this scale can be organized in full accordance with international best practices. Narmin Jarchalova, CEO of COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, emphasized their mission was to turn sustainability from a slogan into action, noting the use of renewable energy and waste prevention as key successes.
By integrating innovation, inclusiveness, and operational excellence, COP29 managed a global event sustainably and has stimulated stronger climate action worldwide. The COP29 Sustainability Report, containing documented achievements and an overview of lessons learned, has been published on the official COP29 website.