Where exactly is COP29?

It's a question of policy as much as geography - writes Spiro's Head of Global Communications, Lee Breheny

As COP28 draws to a close in the UAE, a country balancing its rich oil reserves with ambitious sustainability goals, attention shifts to Azerbaijan, the next host of this pivotal global summit. This choice reflects a recurring theme in the narrative of climate change conferences: nations rich in fossil fuels positioning themselves at the forefront of global environmental discourse.

Azerbaijan is rich in cultural heritage and laden with the complexities of modern energy politics. Nestled between the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan's storied landscapes and architectural marvels, such as the ancient walls of Baku, juxtapose sharply against its identity as a major oil producer.

Like the UAE, it is steeped in an economy deeply rooted in oil production. Baku, the country’s capital, is a city where ancient architecture coexists with the modern edifices of oil wealth. The nation's decision to host #COP29 places it in a unique spotlight, showcasing its own energy paradox.

Amidst the winding streets and historical grandeur of Baku, the discussions of COP29 will take place. Environmentalists and economists alike wil be watching closely. The lessons from #COP28 in the #UAE could be instrumental for Azerbaijan. The UAE's recent push towards renewable energy and sustainability initiatives in the face of an oil-dependent economy provides a template of transformation that Azerbaijan might emulate. The shift, however, is fraught with complexities. Let’s look at the diversity of views Azerbaijan will pick up at the end of this year’s COP 28.

Saudi Arabia and Russia's Stance: These countries insisted that COP28 should focus on reducing climate pollution rather than targeting fossil fuels directly. This approach suggests a preference for technological solutions over direct reductions in fossil fuel usage.

OPEC's Position: The oil producer group urged its members and allies to reject any mention of fossil fuels in the final summit deal. This stance reflects concerns about the economic impact of moving away from fossil fuels too rapidly.

European Union's Response: EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra criticized OPEC's letter, suggesting it was out of tune with the urgent need for climate action.

India and China's Approach: While not explicitly endorsing a fossil fuel phase-out, these countries supported boosting renewable energy, indicating a preference for gradual transition strategies.

Marshall Islands' Urgency: Representing vulnerable nations, Marshall Islands' climate envoy, Tina Stege, emphasized the existential threat posed by fossil fuels and called for their phase-out to meet global warming targets.

Germany's Concern: Jennifer Morgan, Germany's climate envoy, expressed concern about the lack of constructive engagement from all countries and the critical stage of negotiations.

The UAE's Perspective: As the COP28 host, the UAE aimed for an ambitious outcome to keep global warming within 1.5 degrees Celsius, although carefully navigating the term "fossil fuels".

Small Island States' View: Samoa, representing small island states, expressed concern about the slow pace of negotiations and emphasized the need for commitments beyond renewable targets, including fossil fuel phase-out and ending subsidies.

These statements reflect the varied interests and priorities of different nations and groups, and the diverse backgrounds of the speakers, ranging from oil-rich nations to climate-vulnerable islands, underscore the complex dynamics at play in global climate policy.

But at SPIRO we believe the move towards sustainability is urgent and existential.

The global energy crisis underscores the urgency of these summits. The continued rise in greenhouse gas emissions and global temperatures paints a stark picture. How many more COPs can pass before irreversible damage is done? This question hangs heavily over the proceedings.

Spiro, as a leader in sustainable transportation in Africa, watches these developments with keen interest. The company's mission – enhancing livelihoods through sustainable energy – is a reminder of the tangible impact that a shift from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles can have on reducing global emissions.

From Spiro’s perspective, hosting COP in oil-dependent countries like Azerbaijan can be seen as an opportunity to highlight the need for change within these very nations. It's an acknowledgment that the path to sustainability must include the biggest contributors to carbon emissions.

If all worldwide transportation switched to sustainable electric power, it's estimated that about 7.92 gigatonnes (Gt) of CO2 emissions could be saved each year. This figure is based on the transport sector being responsible for approximately 24% of direct CO2 emissions from fuel combustion, with total global CO2 emissions in 2019 around 33 gigatonnes.

Speaking at COP28, Kaushik Burman, Co-CEO of Spiro said, “Each COP summit is not just a meeting but a chance for host countries to showcase real change. For Spiro, it’s an opportunity to reiterate the importance of electrification in transportation, significantly reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions.”

The impact of switching all worldwide transportation to sustainable electric power on global warming would initially see a modest impact, as the global climate system has inertia. However, every electric motorbike we deploy immediately reduces emissions and improves air quality in urban areas. And as the reduction in CO2 emissions accumulates, we will start seeing a slowing of the rate of global warming.

As Azerbaijan prepares to host COP29, it stands at a crossroads. Will it follow in the footsteps of the UAE and pivot towards a more sustainable future, or will it remain anchored to its oil-rich past? The answer could significantly influence the trajectory of global climate action efforts.

In the meantime, companies like Spiro continue to champion the cause of sustainable mobility, hoping to influence a global shift that could significantly impact our collective environmental future.

For more information about Spiro, Africa's largest EV company, and our mission to ensure large scale electrification of mobility in Africa, contact Lee Breheny .

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