IAEA’s Contribution to Climate Action at COP29: Advancing Nuclear Solutions for a Sustainable Future
As the world contends with intensifying climate change, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi is set to join global leaders and stakeholders at COP29—the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC to promote the potential of nuclear solutions in climate change mitigation, adaptation, and monitoring. COP29 will be held from 11 to 22 November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan, featuring the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Climate pavilion, which will highlight the ways nuclear energy and science contribute to global climate action.
Following the momentum of COP28 in Dubai, where nuclear energy was formally acknowledged as part of the clean energy transition, COP29 represents another significant step. The Global Stocktake, conducted at COP28, prioritized the use of low-emission technologies, including nuclear power, as the key to achieving rapid decarbonization.
Spotlight on Investment in Low-Carbon Technologies
A key theme of COP29 will be climate finance. A recent UN report, released on 28 October, emphasizes that current policies and investments are insufficient to maintain global temperature rise within the 1.5°C threshold established by the Paris Agreement. Addressing this gap, Grossi will join high-level representatives from the COP29 Presidency, the International Energy Agency (IEA), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and multilateral development banks in a special event hosted by the COP29 Presidency.
Small Modular Reactors: A Flexible Climate Solution
A notable part of the IAEA’s COP29 presence will be its focus on small modular reactors (SMRs). In collaboration with the U.S. Government, Grossi will co-host a high-level event on SMRs, which offer flexible, cost-effective energy solutions. SMRs are particularly well-suited for small energy grids, developing countries, and energy-intensive sectors like data centers, manufacturing, and even maritime vessels.
Road towards Sustainable Development
The IAEA will also highlight how nuclear techniques support sustainable development by enhancing food security, water resource management, and ocean health monitoring. On 12 November, Grossi will join representatives from UNIDO, the FAO, and the WTO at an event titled “Decarbonizing and Adapting the Cotton-to-Clothing Value Chain through Multisectoral Partnerships.” This event will examine innovative approaches to reducing emissions in the cotton sector, building climate resilience, and fostering collaborative solutions.
Also on 12 November, Grossi will participate in an event hosted by China that underscores how nuclear technology supports climate-smart agriculture through the IAEA/FAO Atoms4Food initiative. Additionally, on 20 November, a joint event hosted by the IAEA, FAO, and CGIAR will discuss the benefits of South-South cooperation in advancing climate action through nuclear solutions.
Monitoring Glacier Melt and Ensuring Water Security
Recognizing glacier retreat as a key indicator of climate change, the IAEA will participate in various events on this topic. With glacier melt affecting water resources, these discussions will emphasize monitoring and assessment to promote sustainable water management.
Paving the way for Climate Resilience
On 18 November, the IAEA will host “Leveraging Science, Technology and Innovation for Climate Solutions,” which will spotlight advanced nuclear technologies in resilient agriculture, pollution monitoring, and disease control. This event will focus on the need for international cooperation, increased research funding, data accessibility, and enhanced public-private funding to drive impactful climate solutions.
By engaging in these discussions at COP29, the IAEA continues to advance nuclear energy as an indispensable tool in the global push towards net-zero emissions and sustainable development. Through initiatives like Atoms4Climate and its collaborations with international partners, the IAEA showcases how nuclear science can contribute effectively to a climate-resilient future.
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