Digitalization can play a significant role in climate action. But how?
The 29th edition of the Conference of the Parties on Climate Change (COP29) will take place in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024. The agenda is packed with goals and discussions needing resolution. In addition to addressing climate solutions, the conference aims to meet the targets set by the Paris Agreement, realign the world towards the 1.5°C goal, and mitigate the impacts of climate change that threaten humans and other life forms. It also seeks to enhance countries' abilities to implement adaptation plans and increase their ambitions related to nationally determined contributions.
Digitalization
Among the proposed solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change are innovative technologies and the promotion of digitalization, while being mindful of the environmental impacts it may have. Some digital technologies that can contribute to these efforts include early warning systems for disaster prevention, improvements in energy networks, digital agriculture, and artificial intelligence (AI), which is a powerful tool for mitigating and adapting to climate change.
At COP29
On November 16, COP29 will host a special day dedicated to Science, Technology and Innovation / Digitalisation. During this event, various discussions and activities will focus on the role of digital technologies in climate mitigation and adaptation. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase significant advancements in this field and to present innovative solutions aimed at reducing energy consumption and electronic waste. On the same day, the "COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action" will be launched, aiming to accelerate and enhance the digital transformation process. Signatories to the declaration will commit to integrating climate resilience into digital infrastructure, utilizing digital tools for climate action, mitigating the environmental impacts of digitalization, and supporting data-driven decision-making processes.
The declaration also emphasizes enhancing the capabilities of countries, particularly the least developed ones, in adopting digital solutions. It calls for the mobilization of climate finance essential for the widespread adoption of digitalization to ensure accessibility for all. Notably, COP29 is dubbed the "Financial Conference of the Parties," reflecting the high expectations for climate finance. Such financing is expected to facilitate technology transfer and make it universally accessible.
As the revolution in artificial intelligence continues to grow, the world increasingly turns to technology to achieve human progress and well-being, saving time and effort. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding the high costs and associated greenhouse gas emissions. If these obstacles can be addressed, technology could serve as an effective solution to the climate crisis.
