The first day of COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, has set an ambitious tone for climate negotiations as Azerbaijan took on the COP presidency. The day began with the 61st meeting of the Subsidiary Bodies, where participants from nearly 200 countries gathered to address pressing climate concerns and to align efforts for meaningful action under the Paris Agreement.

Setting the Agenda: Raising Ambition for Climate Action One of the key focus areas of COP29 is to enhance both ambition and practical action. As the world faces escalating climate challenges, delegates are underscoring the urgency for stronger commitments in national climate plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), with countries encouraged to raise their emission reduction targets for 2030 and beyond. This summit offers an opportunity to re-align global efforts to keep temperature rise under 1.5°C and to strengthen resilience against climate impacts that are already being felt globally.

Spotlight on Funding for Loss and Damage One major point of attention is operationalizing the Loss and Damage Fund, which was initially introduced at COP28. This fund aims to provide financial support to vulnerable countries suffering irreversible climate impacts, such as extreme weather events and rising sea levels. The fund’s establishment and resourcing are critical milestones as developed nations are called to contribute financially, with developing countries awaiting actionable support to address climate-induced damages.

Adapting to Change: Strengthening Global Resilience Adaptation finance has also taken center stage, as countries seek to double financial support for adaptation projects by 2025. With a growing annual adaptation finance gap of up to $366 billion, COP29 emphasizes the need for greater investment to support climate resilience in the Global South. The day highlighted the integration of adaptation measures across sectors, from agriculture to water management, ensuring that nations can withstand the worsening impacts of climate change.

As the conference progresses, thematic days will address essential topics including clean energy, climate finance, human development, and digitalization for climate action. With these targeted discussions, COP29 aims to translate political momentum into concrete outcomes that will support a global shift toward a sustainable future.