Water Management at COP29

The 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) is taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11th to 22nd. This year's conference is focusing on climate finance, with the goal of securing a global commitment to provide funding for climate action. However, water is also expected to be a major topic of discussion, as it is inextricably linked to climate change.

Water Scarcity and Drought

Climate change is already having a significant impact on water resources around the world. Rising temperatures are leading to increased evaporation, which is exacerbating drought conditions in many regions. According to the UN, over 2 billion people currently live in countries experiencing high water stress, and this number is expected to rise to 3.5 billion by 2050.

Water scarcity can have a devastating impact on communities, leading to food insecurity, economic decline, and social unrest. It is therefore essential that COP29 addresses this issue and develops strategies to help countries adapt to the challenges of water scarcity.

Flooding and Increased Storm Events

In addition to drought, climate change is also causing more extreme weather events, such as floods and storms. These events can damage infrastructure, displace communities, and contaminate water supplies.

The recent floods in Valencia, Spain, are a stark reminder of the devastating impact that climate change can have on water resources. The floods caused widespread damage and disruption, and they also contaminated water supplies, leading to a public health emergency.

It is clear that climate change is making extreme weather events more frequent and intense. COP29 must therefore take steps to help countries prepare for these events and mitigate their impact.

The Role of Water in Climate Change Mitigation

Water is not just a victim of climate change; it can also be part of the solution. Sustainable water management can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build resilience to climate change.

For example, investing in water-efficient irrigation can help to reduce water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. Similarly, restoring wetlands can help to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and protect communities from flooding.

COP29 must recognise the important role that water can play in climate change mitigation and adaptation. The conference should encourage countries to invest in sustainable water management practices.

A positive Outcome

Water is an essential resource that is under threat from climate change. COP29 must address the challenges of water scarcity, drought, and flooding. The conference should also recognise the important role that water can play in climate change mitigation and adaptation. As to how much progress gets made over these 12 days in Azerbaijan, especially in relation to sustainable water management, remains to be seen. We look forward with optimism to seeing some positive outcomes later this month, and whatever we find out will be shared within water matters.