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ADA University, in partnership with the COP29 Presidency, organised the inaugural meeting of the COP29 Scientific Council Board on July 26, 2024. 

The meeting convened prominent scientists, climate experts, and policymakers from around the globe to strategise on scientific collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

The high-level meeting started with welcoming remarks from H.E. Mukhtar Babayev, the COP29 President-Designate, and Azerbaijan's Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources.

When highlighting the severe consequences of climate change, especially in terms of water scarcity and food insecurity, H.E. Mukhtar Babayev referred to the factsheets from the Sixth Assessment Report and the outcomes of the Global Stocktake, revealing the gap between planning and implementation of mitigation and adaptation measures. 

H.E. Mukhtar Babayev advised that this gap increases the likelihood that rising global temperatures could exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius, and that an urgent course correction is required. The COP29 Presidency’s vision is to build on the two mutually reinforcing pillars of enhancing ambitions and enabling actions to keep 1.5 within reach and leave no one behind.

“Scientists must lead and guide the COP29 Presidency, and the first meeting of the Scientific Council marks an important step forward in this regard.” added H.E. Mukhtar Babayev.

Ambassador Hafiz Pashayev, Rector of ADA University, highlighted the significance of global cooperation as he discussed ways to promote collaboration among scientific institutions, governments, and private sector stakeholders. Rector Hafiz Pashayev mentioned that having possessed the first green university campus in Azerbaijan, ADA University serves as a role model in the implementation of eco-friendly projects such as plastic recycling and heating the campus with renewable energy. 

"ADA University is at the epicenter of scientific discussion in mitigating the effects of climate change. We will continue to provide a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, aimed at advancing scientific understanding and practical solutions for climate resilience and sustainability." stated Rector Hafiz Pashayev.

Mr. Elnur Soltanov, Chief Executive Officer of COP29 and Deputy Minister of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, said that climate action is costly to economic development, and for that reason, emphasized the solution as a “science and technology” approach that pushes forward research to make technology accessible, available, and affordable in tackling climate crises.

Dr. Fariz Ismailzade, Vice Rector of ADA University and Executive Secretary of the COP29 Scientific Council, led the first meeting, which focused on the adoption of a decision to arrange pre-sessional consultations and establish the framework for hosting scientific side events of COP29.

By acting as a mediator between past, current, and upcoming COP-host representatives, the first meeting of the Scientific Council brought together scientists from Egypt, Azerbaijan, and Brazil.

A group of 24 scientists from 22 countries gathered to engage in discussions on important climate-related issues. These topics included transboundary water issues, the need for capacity building to address climate action, and the utilization of science and technology to effectively tackle climate challenges.

The scientific meeting's outcomes were marked by three significant highlights:

- Embracing youth inclusivity that will empower and incorporate the perspectives of young individuals in the fight against climate change.

- Strengthening cross-border research projects by fostering regional cooperation, diversifying geostrategic approach, and sharing best practices and technological advancements.

- Organizing capacity-building programs to develop scientific capacity that will enhance education and training opportunities for young scientists and researchers.

The COP29 Scientific Council members, representing diverse universities, research centres, and international organizations, will convene regularly to review progress, share findings, and refine strategies to provide scientific guidance that help policymakers develop effective climate strategies. 

The COP29 Scientific Council is an advisory body composed of leading scientists and experts from around the world. Its mission is to support the implementation of the Paris Agreement by providing scientific guidance, fostering innovation, and promoting international collaboration in climate research and policy.

The Scientific Council will convene regularly to review progress, share findings, and refine strategies.