A rough guide to COP29

This day will centre on the role of clean energy technologies in supporting climate resilience and recovery, especially for vulnerable communities impacted by climate-related disruptions. At the RSC, we advocate for innovation in sustainable energy solutions, such as advancements in battery technology, green hydrogen and solar materials, to support these global goals. Explore our work on chemistry and climate change to learn more about how we advocate for chemical research in renewable energy. To find out more about solar chemicals, their development and future applications visit the Solar Chemicals network and watch our webinar with leading experts in the field.

Naturally occurring elements are critical to our daily lives in everyday consumer goods, but some of them have supply chain risks, and the processes needed to mine and refine them can come at considerable environmental cost. As part of a just transition away from fossil fuels, global demand for critical materials is set to triple by 2030. Precious elements, like lithium, copper, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements are vital in renewable technologies industries – from solar panels, to wind turbines and batteries. With demand outpacing supply, we are advocating for the implementation of a circular economy of materials. See our materials strategy action plan on our tackling e-waste page.

Current recycling processes for the recovery of critical minerals in used batteries and other consumer technologies are inadequate. We are calling on the UK government to address this, for more information see our campaign. We encourage everyone to think more carefully about their e-waste - find out about how to get involved on our Precious Elements page.

As the COP29 agenda turns to science, technology and digital transformation, we would like to showcase chemistry’s vital role in sustainable development. We believe that chemistry lies at the heart of our move to a more sustainable future. We are calling on the Government to create an ambitious, inclusive and stable R&D policy environment for UK science and innovation.

Long-term, secure funding for scientific research and innovation provides a significant return on investment and drives economic growth. Investment in the chemical sciences is crucial to securing a sustainable future, from advancements in battery technology and green hydrogen, to solar chemicals and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). Why not check out our discovery, research and innovation policy, evidence and campaigns here?!

With themes like health and education, COP29 brings to light the importance of equitable development in climate action. We advocate for a world-class chemistry education for all, to ensure that future generations are well-equipped for the emerging economy. We believe in the importance of accessible routes and equitable pathways through a relevant and adequately resourced school curriculum. This will enable young people to develop the knowledge and skills they need to participate in efforts to tackle climate change and sustainability issues. If you’d like to know more, check out our work on chemistry education policy, evidence and campaigns here.

Additionally, our initiatives in green chemistry promote safer chemicals and products, reducing public health risks associated with traditional manufacturing and processing methods. Current attempts to address chemical pollution are not working, posing significant threats to the environment and our health. We are urging for senior-level engagement with the chemical sciences community through an intergovernmental science-policy interface to drive forward chemical regulation in the UK and beyond. Read more about our work to inform chemicals, waste and pollution policy here.

Water security and sustainable agriculture are crucial to COP29’s discussions on climate adaptation. At the RSC, we have been leading discussions on chemical regulation to ensure water quality and address the impact of pollutants on agriculture, ecosystems and health. See our recent work on tackling Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) in water, a subset of pollutants which are often unregulated and poorly understood. CECs (like toxic chemicals and plastics) in water bodies have concerning health implications, and can significantly impact marine and freshwater ecosystems.

As part of our ongoing #CleanUpPFAS campaign, we are calling on the UK Government to overhaul drinking water standards. Our analysis revealed more than a third of water courses tested in England and Wales contain levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) that would be considered medium or high risk if consumed. PFAS are sometimes referred to as ‘forever chemicals’ because they are almost indestructible in the natural environment and our bodies. Some have been linked to a range of serious health conditions in humans. While the Drinking Water Inspectorate recently set a new stricter limit for PFAS levels in the UK, government legislation has not yet been passed to reflect that position. If you’d like to learn more about our PFAS campaign, or what you can do to help, see here.

As part of our push for a sustainable chemicals revolution, we have been participating in negotiations to establish a new UN Science-Policy Panel (SPP) on Chemicals, Waste, and the Prevention of Pollution. We believe that this is the best way to strengthen the global science-policy interface and improve strategies for chemicals and waste management. More details about this process, along with recordings of our Burlington Consensus interim meetings, can be found here.

There is no time to waste – as part of this overhaul, we are calling on the government to form a UK Chemicals Agency. More details on all these initiatives can be found on our sustainability campaigns, which aim to protect water resources and support sustainable agricultural practices through chemistry.

The penultimate day of COP29 is dedicated to critical themes around nature and biodiversity, indigenous peoples, gender equality, and ocean and coastal zones. This focus allows for a deep dive into intersecting issues crucial to climate resilience and environmental preservation. At the RSC, we are supportive of sustainable practices and scientific research for environmental preservation.

COP29 discussions will emphasise protecting natural habitats, ensuring the rights and involvement of Indigenous communities, promoting gender equality in climate action, and safeguarding ocean and coastal ecosystems that are highly vulnerable to climate impacts.
We continue to foster an inclusive, scientifically informed approach to climate action, and emphasise the role of chemistry in preserving both natural ecosystems and social equity in the face of climate challenges.