LocationsCOP29 significant for the most vulnerable countries: Montenegro is committed to global climate goals
November 13, 2024
By participating in COP29, the largest conference dedicated to climate change, Montenegro reaffirms its commitment to global climate goals aimed at limiting global warming and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the coming years. Supported by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the UN Resident Coordinator’s office in Montenegro, a meeting focused on preparing Montenegro’s delegation for participation in the 29th UN Climate Change Conference, taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan, was held at the UN Eco Building.
The meeting brought together key representatives from the UN in Montenegro, the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development, the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Economic Development, the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as the embassies of Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, North Macedonia and Slovenia in Montenegro. They discussed the progress achieved in climate action, identified key challenges, and set goals for the upcoming period.
This year’s COP29 is of particular importance, especially for countries most vulnerable to climate change, including Montenegro. The conference will focus on the specific actions that the signatory countries of the Paris Agreement must take to achieve set goals. Key topics include implementing new financial models, mobilizing resources for climate adaptation, closing financial gaps, and supporting the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Although Montenegro contributes minimally to global climate change, it still faces its harmful effects. Accordingly, the country is moving forward with ambitious plans and concrete actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resilience to climate change, and achieve sustainable development goals. Under the Paris Agreement, Montenegro has set a goal to reduce emissions by 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. By updating its NDCs, Montenegro shows its readiness to increase its ambition and contribution to the fight against climate change, in alignment with global efforts.
Damjan Ćulafić, the Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development, emphasized that Montenegro faces significant steps toward achieving the Paris Agreement goals, adding that by the end of the year, the government will propose a law on protection from the negative impacts of climate change and protection of the ozone layer. “We cannot ignore climate change. Montenegro’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, developing green and sustainable energy solutions, and strengthening climate resilience is clear. With each new step, our goal is to create a better and safer future for all our citizens. Through an integrated approach and cooperation with partners from the UN system and international organizations, Montenegro will continue to contribute to achieving global climate goals and the fight for a sustainable future”, said Ćulafić.
Ekaterina Paniklova, the UNDP Resident Representative in Montenegro, highlighted the importance of linking climate and development policies. “Solutions that integrate these areas can enable the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals while also reducing the harmful impacts of climate change on the most vulnerable communities. To achieve true climate resilience, it is essential to continuously reevaluate set goals and address the connection between climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation. We must ensure that no community is left behind on this path, so inclusive and fair policies are crucial for long-term success”, Paniklova said.
Diego Zorilla, the UN Resident Coordinator in Montenegro, emphasized that collaboration between international and national actors is key to achieving emission reduction targets and enhancing adaptive capacities in countries like Montenegro. “I particularly highlight the importance of engaging all sectors and making decisions that take into account each country’s specific challenges, with a focus on investing in sustainable and inclusive projects that help reduce climate risks”, he stated.
