Agriculture takes centre stage at COP29 in Azerbaijan

As the world gears up for the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, agriculture and food systems are set to play a pivotal role in the global climate agenda. With the host country’s emphasis on methane reduction and sustainable farming, the conference is poised to spotlight the transformative potential of agriculture in combating climate change.

A global focus on agriculture and methane reduction

Agriculture’s significant contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions – about one-third, according to the United Nations—makes it a critical focus area for climate action. COP29’s agenda reflects this urgency, emphasising global initiatives around farming and reducing methane from waste and food systems.

COP29 president-designate Mukhtar Babayev highlighted the importance of addressing methane emissions and water issues, especially given Azerbaijan’s experiences with extreme heat, water scarcity, and soil degradation.

“This is a challenge that Azerbaijan understands well,” Babayev wrote in a letter to stakeholders. “But we are also a source of solutions and opportunities… supporting transition to low-emissions and climate-resilient development not only at the national but also at the regional and global level.”

Introducing the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers

Babayev unveiled a new effort called the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers, designed to serve as an aggregator of various coalitions and networks. The initiative aims to facilitate financial investments and foster collaboration, empowering farmers worldwide to adopt sustainable practices.

Denmark leads by example

Denmark, a nation renowned for its commitment to sustainability and green innovation, is ready to showcase its strongholds in climate efficiency and sustainable food production at COP29.  From November 11 to 22, the Denmark Pavilion in the Blue Zone, H8 will be a dynamic hub for side events, networking, informal meetings, receptions, and bilateral discussions across various themes. On November 19, Denmark will emphasize a focused showcase of sustainable food production.

A relentless focus on efficiency, productivity, and cross-sector collaboration propels Denmark’s food and agriculture industry toward its national ambition of achieving climate neutrality by 2045. Danish initiatives emphasize sustainable farming practices, technological innovation, and international cooperation to reduce emissions while maintaining high productivity.

Minister Jacob Jensen to champion sustainable agriculture

Mr. Jacob Jensen, Denmark’s Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, will attend COP29 on November 12 and 13. His participation underscores Denmark’s dedication to leading international efforts in sustainable food production. Minister Jensen will engage in critical discussions on themes such as climate finance in agriculture, the integration of climate, biodiversity, and food systems, and international cooperation on energy transitions. The ministers agenda includes sessions on global forest protection, the transformation of sustainable food systems, and bilateral discussions to strengthen environmental partnerships.

Key side event: Decarbonizing Food Systems

On November 19, from 11:15 AM to 12:00 PM, the Denmark Pavilion(Blue Zone, H8) will host a pivotal side event titled “Decarbonising food systems and advancing global resilience through agricultural innovation.” Organised by Food Nation and the UN Foundation, the event builds on the momentum of COP28’s “Declaration on sustainable agriculture, resilient food Systems, and climate action.”

The session aims to accelerate global food system decarbonization, guided by:

• Food Nation’s “5 Pathways to Accelerate the Green Transition“
• UN Foundation’s report, “Cultivating Transformative Investments in Climate-Smart Agriculture and Food Systems Innovation“

Esteemed speakers and panelists

The event will feature insights from experts across diverse sectors:

• Lasse Bruun: Director of Climate & Food at the UN Foundation
• Juan Carlos Mendoza: Director for Environment, Climate, Gender, and Social Inclusion Division at IFAD
• Sophie Gregory: Organic farmer and member of Arla Foods’ Board of Representatives
• Elizabeth Gulugulu: Advisory and policy expert at SustainSphere Advisory, on youth engagement for resilience 
• Lise Walbom: CEO of Food Nation

Looking Ahead

Denmark’s active participation at COP29, alongside Azerbaijan’s focus on agriculture and methane reduction, signals a significant shift in the global approach to climate change. By highlighting agriculture’s role not just as a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions but also as a source of innovative solutions, COP29 promises to pave the way for meaningful progress.