Break through the media noise of COP29 and follow Computer Science student Charis' quick guide in navigating this global event as a student, released today to mark youth day (Monday 18 November) on the international stage.

What is COP29?

COP is short for the Conference of the Parties and it's the world's biggest event for global leaders, activists and climate experts to discuss urgent climate issues. This year it's held in Azerbaijan and will cover everything from finance to agriculture. Sounds intimidating, right? Maybe, but it is also an incredible opportunity for us as students to understand what decisions are being made and how they affect us, and even how we can be part of solutions!

Big topics this year

You’ll notice the conference this year has alot of talk around finances which is why COP29 was coined “finance COP”. It's not only about finance though and so here I've shared a quick and easy breakdown of some key themes and actions that continue to be discussed throughout the conference as we enter the second week of COP29:

Setting a New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG)

Don't let the mouthful of a name put you off. The NCQG sets out to create an updated approach to funding where wealthy countries will boost money available to help developing nations tackle climate change. This is about delivering just solutions for all and recognising the historical impact that nations have had on climate change, and the fairest ways that solutions can be found to drive global change.

COP29 Green Digital Action Declaration

This is a new commitment presented at the conference to use digital technology to support climate goals and make sustainable choices more accessible. It will encourage countries and companies to use sustainable tech and climate-focused digital tools.

The effects of climate change on youth and education

Monday 18 November marks Children and Youth Day at COP29, the focus for todays event is on the holistic view of how climate change effects human development, youth, health and education. The importance of youth in international climate conversations is integrated more than ever in many events at the conference. University of Bath are part of a project called ActNowFilm which premiered at COP29 over the weekend and showcases people worldwide who are taking action on the climate crisis as well as calling for meaningful youth inclusion in global climate negotiations. Attend a film screening on campus on Thursday 21 November.

Increasing financial contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund

An increase in financial contributions aims to increase the pot of money to support vulnerable countries facing climate disasters like floods, droughts and other extreme weather events.

Why should students care?

The policies set at COP29 will affect everything from the cost of living to job opportunities in green industries. Not only that, but the actions taken today will directly affect the extent of impacts our generation face from climate change in our lifetime. The decisions made will have long-term effects on our future, but this doesn't have to be thought of as all doom and gloom, COP29 is a space where countries unite around climate issues to create solutions, and it has a massive potential to drive positive change.

Discover more ways students can take action at Bath on the students guide to climate action webpage.

Take action

• Complete the Sustainability Survey and be in with a chance of winning a £300 Bath gift voucher; your student voice has the power to make a real difference to guide and shape the University's actions and create lasting positive change
• Come along to the ActNowFilm screening and hear inspiring insights from Bath students who are involved in taking action, book your space, enjoy free cake and join us in accelerating the power of young people
• Complete a Climate Literacy course to gain the skills and confidence to take climate action, reduce your carbon footprint, and make a positive impact, all while earning certification which is perfect for your CV
• Keep up to date on sustainability events, courses, and activities happening at Bath and nationwide with our Student Sustainability Calendar   
• Attend the One Young World Bath Conference in March 2025 and be part of positive change at Bath
• Discover the community larders and fridge by Fresh and in the Virgil Building to help you save money and reduce waste

Charis Drain

Second year BSc(Hons) Computer Science