In the past century, the planet has continued to warm with no signs of slowing down. This is largely due to an ever-growing rise in fossil fuel emissions from humans burning fuel for power or heat and has led to a wide range of extreme weather events in recent years including heatwaves, floods, and even wildfires. As this trend continued to worsen with each passing year, a number of countries called for collective action in the form of a conference titled Conference of the Parties, or COP, with the first edition held in 1995 and on an annual basis ever since.
The COP26
As we edge closer towards the end of the year, the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, otherwise known as the COP26, is almost upon us. Due to take place between October 31 and November 12, a little under a year since it was initially rescheduled, in Scotland’s capital city of Glasgow, it will invite between 20,000 and 25,000 attendees alongside heads of states, diplomats, business leaders, journalists, and campaigners from 200 countries to outline their plans to cut emissions by 2030. It will be overseen by the UK and Italy as they fulfil their role as joint presidents of this year’s event.
What is the reason behind it?
The ultimate goal of COP26 is to address the enduring climate crisis. This year’s conference comes just months after the release of the UN’s IPCC Report which referred to global warming as a “code red for humanity”. It is expected to encourage a growing number of attendees from key countries to visit and collaborate with world leaders to source a suitable solution that is achievable and realistic. On a wider scale, the COP26 aims to protect ecosystems and build defences to avoid the loss of homes and habitats.
Who will attend?
Over 100 world leaders are expected to descend on Glasgow on October 31 as the COP26 kicks off with a number of recognisable names announced so far. Included in the line-up is UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, US President Joe Biden, and Her Majesty the Queen. Several famous faces, climate activists, and cultural activists are also expected to make an appearance including Sir David Attenborough, Pope Francis, and Greta Thunberg.
How can you help?
As is the case every year, the COP26 highlights a need to tackle the ongoing problem of climate change in any way we can. If you are looking to do your part, there are several steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint and prevent global warming from worsening at a rapid pace. This includes opting for renewable energy solutions, making the switch from a fuel-powered car to an electric car, avoiding single-use plastic if and when you can, and installing commercial solar panels on your residential or commercial property.
Are you looking to lower your business’ contribution to global warming? If the answer is yes, get in touch with our dedicated team today to find you how you can make a change that will benefit you, and the planet, for decades to come.