Knowledge and Capital: The Climate Resilience Equation
The “Knowledge and Capital: The Climate Resilience Equation” Model Conference of Parties (MCOP) in Albania is set to be a dynamic and immersive simulation of the high-stakes negotiations seen in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conferences of the Parties (COP).
With climate change at the forefront of global affairs, this conference brings together young minds to explore and debate critical issues that shape international climate negotiations and drive global climate action. The conference aims to highlight two key vectors to ensure proper climate action: capacity building, and funding. But not only does it aim to highlight them as key vectors, this conference will emphasize the crucial interplay between education, capacity building, and climate finance in addressing climate change.
60 participants, aged 16-27, will be divided into two core committees – Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) and Climate Finance. These committees will engage in in-depth debates and negotiations, reflecting the complexities and challenges faced by global leaders at the COPs The conference provides an opportunity for delegates to enhance their understanding of national and international climate policy, develop negotiation skills, and contribute to discussions that mirror real-world climate negotiations. The aim is to help participants understand the complexities of global climate action and boost their involvement in the fight against climate change.
Committee 1: Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE)
Empowerment & Engagement: Playing the Cards in Climate Action
The ACE committee will delve into the important role that education, public awareness, and engagement play in global climate action. Delegates will focus on how countries can better include these elements in their national and international climate strategies, particularly by following the ACE Implementation Plan from COP26.
Discussions will look at concrete steps towards integrating climate education as a priority in national policy documents like the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and how to adapt these plans to differing local settings and needs. The committee will also tackle different tools to build skills and knowledge, especially in countries that need support in doing so, by using resources like the ACE Capacity-Building Hub.
A key aspect of the committee’s work will involve figuring out how to secure and distribute funding for these educational and public engagement efforts. Delegates will explore how to get the necessary financial support, set priorities for funding, and consider partnerships with businesses to ensure these initiatives are well-resourced and effective in contributing to global climate goals.
Committee 2: Climate Finance
The Climate Funding Paradox: Too Little, Too Much, or Misdirected?
The Climate Finance committee will tackle one of the most complex issues in international climate negotiations: the allocation of financial resources to address climate challenges. This committee will explore how financial resources can be effectively used to fight climate change. Delegates will discuss how to divide funds between efforts to reduce the causes of climate change (mitigation) and efforts to adapt to its impacts (adaptation). Delegates will address the challenge of balancing immediate adaptation needs with long-term mitigation goals, considering the roles of various stakeholders in driving these investments.
A key focus will be on the issue of Loss and Damage, which refers to the harm caused by climate change that cannot be avoided through mitigation or adaptation. Delegates will debate whose responsibility it will be to fund, and the channels through which the funds will be distributed.
As climate impacts grow, the need for new and creative ways to fund solutions is more important than ever. The committee will explore innovative financial tools (such as green bonds, climate insurance, and carbon pricing) to help raise the money needed. Delegates will also discuss how new technologies like digital platforms, blockchain, and artificial intelligence can help track how funds are used, ensuring that money is spent effectively and transparently. By exploring these ideas, the Climate Finance Committee aims to build a stronger and fairer global response to the climate crisis.
