By Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad
In a decisive step toward environmental sustainability, Azerbaijan has declared 2024 the “Year of Solidarity for a Green World.” This initiative reflects the country’s growing role in the global climate agenda and its commitment to leading by example.
The Presidential Administration of Azerbaijan has been tasked with developing a comprehensive action plan to implement this vision. The goal is to promote international cooperation and inspire unified action against climate change.
Azerbaijan’s Commitment to Climate Action
Azerbaijan acknowledges the urgent need to address environmental challenges. By launching the “Green World Solidarity Year,” the nation seeks to:
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Encourage global and national discussions on climate change
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Promote the use of green technologies
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Support sustainable development practices
President Ilham Aliyev has emphasized the importance of global solidarity in advancing environmental consciousness. His proactive leadership underscores Azerbaijan’s commitment to a greener and more sustainable world.
Green Energy and Sustainable Development Goals
Azerbaijan is prioritizing green energy development as part of its long-term sustainability strategy. The country aims to:
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Generate 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030
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Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030
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Achieve a 40% reduction in emissions by 2050
These goals demonstrate Azerbaijan’s proactive stance on climate change, aligning with international standards for reducing carbon footprints.
Expanding Green Building Practices
The government is promoting green building initiatives through:
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Energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems in government facilities
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Use of sustainable building materials
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Extensive public awareness campaigns
Private companies are also adopting these eco-friendly practices, contributing to a greener urban landscape.
Transforming Karabakh and East Zangazur into Net-Zero Zones
Azerbaijan plans to transform the liberated regions of Karabakh and East Zangazur into Net-Zero Emission Zones. This includes:
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Expanding renewable energy use (hydro, solar, wind, geothermal)
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Building smart cities and smart villages
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Prioritizing ecosystem restoration
These projects showcase innovative approaches to regional development while reducing environmental impact.
Azerbaijan to Host COP29 in 2024
Azerbaijan will host the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2024. This prestigious event is expected to welcome 70,000 to 80,000 international guests.
COP29 will focus on stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations, promoting:
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Sustainable agriculture
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Eco-friendly transportation
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Smart cities and villages
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Reforestation efforts
Hosting COP29 highlights Azerbaijan’s leadership in the global climate dialogue and reinforces its commitment to environmental protection.
Green Growth as a National Priority
Azerbaijan’s strategy aligns with its 2030 socio-economic development goals, particularly its vision of becoming a “Country of Clean Environment and Green Growth.” This vision focuses on:
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Resource efficiency
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Cleaner production practices
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Investment in green technologies
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Fostering innovation for sustainable industrial development
Conclusion: Azerbaijan’s Growing Role in Climate Leadership
Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29 represents a significant milestone. The decision, unanimously supported by the global community, underscores Azerbaijan’s rising influence in international climate policy.
By championing green initiatives, Azerbaijan is building a legacy of:
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Environmental stewardship
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Global cooperation
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Sustainable development
The Year of Solidarity for a Green World further solidifies Azerbaijan’s position as a responsible and forward-thinking global partner in the fight against climate change.
