Baku Climate Talks: 30 Nations Unite to Cut Methane Emissions from Organic Waste

At the ongoing COP29 climate conference in Baku, a significant milestone has been reached in the fight against climate change. Over 30 nations joined the newly launched Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration.

These nations, which account for 47% of global methane emissions from organic waste, have pledged to set ambitious sectoral targets to mitigate methane emissions as part of their future Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

This declaration represents a unified commitment to addressing methane emissions, the third-largest source of anthropogenic methane after agriculture and fossil fuels. With concrete policies and roadmaps on the horizon, these nations aim to curb emissions in line with the Global Methane Pledge (GMP) established at COP26.

The Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration: A Bold Step Forward

Global Commitments

The declaration, backed by over 30 nations, includes seven of the world’s top 10 organic waste methane emitters. By committing to sector-specific targets, these countries are demonstrating their resolve to align their climate action plans with the goals of the GMP.

Background and Collaboration

Developed in partnership with the UNEP-convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), the declaration builds upon prior efforts at COP26 and COP27. The GMP seeks a 30% reduction in methane emissions by 2030 compared to 2020 levels. Methane mitigation in the organic waste sector is deemed essential for achieving this target.

Significance of Organic Waste

Organic waste accounts for over 50% of municipal solid waste globally and is responsible for substantial methane emissions. Additionally, nearly one-third of all food produced is wasted annually, emphasizing the urgent need for better management and prevention strategies to reduce emissions.

Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers

In another significant announcement, the COP29 Presidency, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), launched the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers. This initiative acknowledges farmers as key stakeholders in climate action and aims to unify existing climate initiatives in the food and agriculture sector.

A Comprehensive Platform for Farmers

The initiative will develop an online portal offering accessible guidelines and resources for farmers and agricultural organizations. By addressing existing gaps and identifying new opportunities, the platform seeks to empower rural communities and ensure their active participation in sustainable practices.

Collaborations with Financial Institutions

Harmoniya will leverage partnerships with financial institutions to provide targeted support to farmers. This includes promoting sustainable livestock management and manure systems, crucial for methane reduction in agriculture.

Azerbaijan’s Commitment to the Global Methane Pledge

The Ministry of Agriculture of Azerbaijan, in collaboration with the CCAC, announced plans to develop a methane reduction roadmap tailored to the nation’s agricultural sector. This partnership reinforces Azerbaijan’s commitment to the GMP and focuses on innovative, sustainable practices in farming and waste management.

Leadership Speaks on Climate Action

Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 President

“The COP29 Presidency has worked to drive progress on mitigation throughout the year through both the UNFCCC process and our own Action Agenda. Today’s declaration takes a great stride forward in helping nations to implement the Global Methane Pledge, which is an important part of global efforts to reduce our emissions in this critical decade for climate action.”

Martina Otto, Head of UNEP-Convened CCAC Secretariat

“Fast-tracking actions to reduce methane from organic waste is critical to keep the goals of the Paris Agreement within reach, and can strengthen our food systems globally while harnessing circular economy opportunities.”

The Way Forward

The Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration emphasizes ambitious yet achievable goals for global methane reduction. By integrating these objectives into future climate plans, fostering cross-government collaboration, and mobilizing finance, this declaration seeks to bring systemic change in waste management and food systems.

With initiatives like the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative complementing these efforts, the momentum from COP29 promises meaningful progress in tackling methane emissions and achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.