The Future of Events: Balancing Hybridization, Sustainability, and In-Person Connection in 2025
2024 has been a high-intensity year of events for Emerging, accentuated by exceptional engagement in…
The 28th Conference of the Parties on Climate Change (COP 28), in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023, marked a significant milestone in integrating agriculture and food systems into the global climate dialogue. The event featured over 600 agriculture-related sessions, including more than 125 dedicated to Food, Agriculture, and Water Day. The Emirati Declaration, supported by 152 countries, highlighted a collective commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and resilience. Official UNFCCC agricultural negotiations encountered challenges, notably in establishing a Coordination Group as part of the discussion on the work plan for Sharm el Sheik Joint Work until 2026.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched a roadmap aimed at achieving CO2-neutral agrifood systems by 2035 and promoting universal healthy diets by 2050, aligning with the 1.5°C Paris Agreement goal. The focus on food systems and agriculture was further reinforced by the Global Stocktake (GST) and the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), both emphasizing the critical role of resilient food systems and sustainable agriculture in climate adaptation efforts. Additionally, the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund, with substantial contributions from various countries, marked a crucial step in climate finance. This fund is particularly vital for the agriculture sector, which is disproportionately affected by climate change, offering essential support for mitigation and adaptation initiatives.
Emerging Ag played an instrumental role in assisting partners move forward momentum to unlock more ambitious climate action during COP28. Emerging Ag’s active engagement efforts at COP28 contributed to advancing cross-sectoral climate action dialogues, positioning our partners as leaders in sustainable climate action initiatives.
Looking ahead, the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 29) will take place in Azerbaijan, providing another opportunity to advance global climate action.