The COP29 Presidency launched the Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration, with over 30 states as initial signatories. Together, these countries represent 47% of global methane emissions from organic waste.
The declaration sets sectoral targets for reducing methane emissions within future Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Seven of the world’s 10 largest methane emitters from organic waste are among the signatories.
These countries commit to implementing concrete policies and roadmaps to achieve methane reduction targets. This initiative is a significant step in addressing methane emissions, which contribute to global warming.
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Building on the Global Methane Pledge
The Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration was developed with the UNEP-convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC). It builds on progress made at previous COPs, including the 2021 Global Methane Pledge (GMP), launched at COP26. The GMP targets a 30% reduction in methane emissions by 2030, compared to 2020 levels.
Organic waste is the third-largest source of anthropogenic methane emissions, following agriculture and fossil fuels. Tackling methane from organic waste is crucial to meeting the GMP’s goals.
Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers
The Presidency also launched the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers, in partnership with the FAO. This initiative recognizes the vital role of farmers in climate action. The project aims to unite existing climate initiatives in food and agriculture into a single platform.
This platform will identify gaps in policies and support for farmers, rural communities, and villages. By unifying efforts, it will empower farmers to adopt sustainable practices and combat climate change.
Cooperation with Azerbaijan for Methane Reduction
The Ministry of Agriculture of Azerbaijan, in collaboration with the CCAC, announced a new methane reduction roadmap. The roadmap will focus on sustainable livestock management and manure systems. This effort supports Azerbaijan’s commitment to the Global Methane Pledge and contributes to developing methane reduction strategies for agriculture.
COP29 President’s Remarks on the Declaration
Commenting on the Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration, COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev remarked, “The COP29 Presidency has worked to drive progress on mitigation throughout the year through both the UNFCCC process and our own Action Agenda. Today’s declaration takes a great stride forward in helping nations to implement the Global Methane Pledge, which is an important part of global efforts to reduce our emissions in this critical decade for climate action.”
The launch of the Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration and the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative marks progress in the fight against climate change. These efforts will help countries, farmers, and industries work together to reduce methane emissions and create sustainable solutions for the future.