As the climate crisis escalates, so does the need for global collaboration. But let’s face it—flying experts and leaders across the world isn’t always practical and also feels counterproductive. That’s where AlterCOP 29 comes in, the Singapore based alternative to COP29 in Azerbaijan, keeping the world plugged into real-time climate action without the carbon footprint.

AlterCOP 29, an alternative in Singapore to the official COP29 in Azerbaijan, designed to keep the world informed and engaged in real-time without the need for extensive travel. Running from 11 November to 22 November 2024, AlterCOP 29 is a shining example of how technology can bridge global gaps in the fight against climate change.

AlterCOP 29 offers over 100 sessions, bringing together more than 150 speakers across 30 programmes. These events are tailored to not only mirror the discussions happening at COP29 but also to bring in new voices and ideas. By removing the need for attendees to travel across the globe, this platform significantly reduces carbon emissions, all while maintaining the momentum needed to address climate issues.

Why COP29 is a Turning Point for Global Climate Action

AlterCOP 29 ensures you can stay informed, inspired, and part of the global dialogue. The breadth of the topics discussed offers a wide-ranging view of the issues at hand, from energy transition to biodiversity conservation and social justice.

Just a little reminder of why COP is so important—especially COP29. The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the annual UN climate summit, where countries, activists, scientists, and policymakers gather to hammer out solutions to the growing climate emergency. It’s not just a place for speeches; it’s where real, binding decisions are made on how nations will cut carbon emissions, transition to renewable energy, and protect vulnerable communities from the devastating impacts of climate change.

COP29 carries even greater significance because we’re rapidly approaching the critical 2030 climate targets. By that year, we need to have drastically reduced greenhouse gas emissions to stay on track for limiting global warming to 1.5°C, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. With global temperatures continuing to rise, extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe, and the gap between current policies and necessary action widening, this summit is a tipping point. Decisions made here will determine whether the world ramps up its climate commitments or risks pushing past key planetary boundaries.

Beyond emissions cuts, COP29 will focus on ensuring climate justice—making sure developing countries, which contribute the least to climate change but suffer its worst impacts, receive the support they need. It will also look at scaling up climate finance, enhancing adaptation measures, and finding ways to strengthen resilience for both ecosystems and communities worldwide. Simply put, what’s decided at COP29 will shape the trajectory of global climate efforts for the coming decade and beyond, making it one of the most critical moments in the fight for our planet’s future.

Highlight Programme: Energy and Decarbonisation

Back to AlterCOP 20, a key event in this year’s line-up is the Energy and Decarbonisation Spotlight Programme, taking place on Friday, 15 November 2024 at the Singapore Sustainability Academy. This session will shine a light on one of the most pressing challenges in the climate discourse—how to decarbonise industries, cities, and economies without stalling growth or leaving communities behind.

The Guest-of-Honour for this session will be Dr Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State from the Ministry of Manpower & Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment. 

Key Topics at AlterCOP 29: What’s on the Agenda?

AlterCOP 29 brings together leading voices to tackle critical climate issues, offering diverse solutions to today’s environmental challenges. Organised by The Matcha Initiative—a Singapore-based platform that provides solutions, suppliers, resources, and experience sharing for businesses aiming to become more sustainable—this year’s event also features the expertise of The Transmutation Principle, a consultancy that helps businesses design tailor-made sustainability and ESG programmes. Together, they’ve crafted a robust agenda that addresses the urgent needs of our planet. Here are the key topics covered:

• Climate Change & Climate Justice (11 November 2024): As climate change continues to disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, this session delves into how Singapore and its regional neighbours are gearing up to mitigate these impacts. The focus will be on policies that ensure climate justice and equitable adaptation strategies for at-risk populations.
• Waste & Circular Economy (12 November 2024): Addressing one of the region’s most pressing issues, this session explores how circular economy models can help manage waste more effectively. By promoting recycling, reuse, and waste reduction, the session will highlight innovative approaches to creating closed-loop systems that minimise environmental damage while maximising resource efficiency.
• Resilience & Adaptation (13 November 2024): With climate impacts intensifying, this session examines how Singapore and surrounding countries are building resilience and adaptation strategies. Topics include developing infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events and adopting nature-based solutions to boost environmental and community resilience.
• Green Finance & Investments (14 November 2024): Singapore is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable finance, and this session focuses on how the financial sector can drive green investments and ethical financing. Discussions will explore the role of ESG-driven financial decisions in accelerating the shift towards greener economies, with an emphasis on leadership and accountability.
• Energy & Decarbonisation (15 November 2024): This session is a cornerstone of the agenda, focusing on the transition to renewable energy and the decarbonisation of key industries. With a spotlight on Singapore’s energy transition, the conversation will cover both the opportunities and the challenges of cutting carbon emissions while maintaining economic growth.
• Human Capital, Youth, Bridging the Generational Gap (18 November 2024): This session emphasises the importance of youth engagement and education in creating long-term climate solutions. By fostering intergenerational collaboration and equipping the next generation with the tools to lead, the session will explore ways to create a lasting paradigm shift in climate thinking.
• Biodiversity, Carbon Markets & Nature-Based Solutions (19 November 2024): Biodiversity loss and carbon emissions are deeply intertwined. This session explores how protecting ecosystems and integrating nature-based solutions can play a crucial role in mitigating climate change, while also examining the limitations of focusing solely on carbon markets as a solution.
• Sustainable Cities & Tourism (20 November 2024): As urbanisation accelerates, this session examines how cities can be redesigned to promote sustainable living. Key areas of focus include integrating green spaces, enhancing infrastructure for eco-friendly tourism, and creating urban environments that support both environmental and socio-economic well-being.
• Resources Management (21 November 2024): With climate change threatening vital resources, this session addresses water resilience, food security, and the global challenge of plastic waste. Innovative strategies for managing these resources sustainably will be discussed, with a focus on reducing waste and enhancing resilience in food and water systems.
• Transport & Supply Chain (22 November 2024): The logistics and transport sectors play a significant role in global emissions, and this session explores how to decarbonise these systems. The discussion will focus on opportunities to create greener supply chains and the technological innovations required to make transport more sustainable.

Throughout AlterCOP 29, participants will have access to a wealth of knowledge and experience from experts across the globe. For those unable to attend the in person sessions, AI-generated daily summaries provide an excellent way to stay updated on the discussions, ensuring no one misses out on the key insights

The Importance of Adaptation and Inclusion

Throughout AlterCOP 29, a recurring theme has been the need for adaptation and inclusion. As climate disasters intensify, it’s often the most marginalised groups who bear the brunt. From rising sea levels threatening low-lying regions to extreme weather events displacing millions, the need to protect vulnerable communities is more critical than ever.

As highlighted by the climate crisis, building resilience requires a multi-disciplinary approach, pulling together expertise from environmental science, social justice, and labour economics. The conversations at AlterCOP 29 aim to ensure that no one is left behind as we transition to a more sustainable future.

A Vision for the Future

With so much at stake, AlterCOP 29 provides an invaluable space for real-time engagement with some of the world’s leading climate experts. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of decarbonisation, explore the challenges of climate resilience, or simply stay informed on the latest from COP29, this virtual platform ensures you don’t miss a beat.

By providing a sustainable, accessible alternative to in-person summits, AlterCOP 29 is a step in the right direction for global climate discourse. As we look toward the future, these kinds of innovations may well become the new norm in how we tackle the most pressing challenges of our time.

Stay Connected

From now until 22 November 2024, you can tune in to AlterCOP 29’s wide array of discussions and panels, either in person or through recordings. Join the conversation, and be part of the movement toward a more sustainable, resilient future.