Denmark’s green experiences shape G20 climate talks

The G20, representing over 80% of the global economy and roughly the same emission load, has the power to drive the global green transition, benefiting people, communities and businesses worldwide. But despite the G20’s influence and financial muscle, smaller nations like Denmark also play a key advisory role, helping shape global policies on environmental issues, climate action and energy transition

During a busy week for Brazil’s G20 presidency, the so-called Sherpa Track of high-level meetings culminated yesterday with the Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group ‘s ministerial session in Rio de Janeiro.

Serving as a green advisor, Denmark’s Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities Lars Aagaard joined global leaders to advance negotiations on climate and energy transition. This is Denmark's second consecutive year participating in the G20's green working groups, following its involvement under India's presidency in 2023.

Although Denmark accounts for just 0.1% of global emissions, its role in the G20 focuses on advisory and guidance on ambitious energy, climate, and environmental issues leading up to the final declaration at the G20 Summit in November.

Beyond advising on ambitious energy and climate goals ahead of the Summit, Denmark is also leading initiatives to secure climate funding that supports the development and implementation of national green transition plans. A key contribution is the Investment Mobilization Collaboration Alliance (IMCA), launched in partnership between the U.S. and its Nordic neighbours.

IMCA is a pioneering solution platform that aims to rapidly mobilise billions of USD in private climate financing for emerging markets and developing countries, reducing risks in investments for mitigation, adaptation, biodiversity and nature by the end of 2025

During that frame, the ties between Denmark and Brazil are set to further deepen their cooperation on climate and energy, as Brazil prepares to host COP30 while Denmark holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union . Efforts will tap into Brazil’s ambitious climate policies, including a pledge to halt deforestation in the Amazon and push ahead on just energy transition. In this vein, Denmark has since 2021 collaborated with Brazilian authorities on long-term energy planning and the integration of renewable energy into the grid, helping Brazil tap into its vast renewable resources to supply secure, green power to its 215 million citizens.?

The Danish government aims to further strengthen this cooperation, proposing in the 2025 budget that Danish experts support Brazil’s efforts in energy efficiency and offshore wind development.

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