As concerns about climate change continue to grow, the need for decisive action becomes increasingly urgent. The Conference of the Parties (COP) has long been a platform for global discussions on climate change, but we also need a COP specifically focused on action.
The existing COP meetings, organized by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), have undoubtedly played a crucial role in raising awareness about climate change and fostering international cooperation. However, one can argue that these meetings often discuss a lot and become very popular during the meetings but tone down as time goes on. My prayer is this COP28 creates a sense of urgency and determination emphasized in Laudate Deum as needed to drive real change through action response and develop mechanisms that interpret its deliberations to youth and common people in action because it’s the language, they understand best.
A COP for Action would be a dedicated gathering of leaders, policymakers, scientists, and other relevant stakeholders beginning from local levels to the world levels, with a singular focus on implementing tangible solutions to combat climate change. Each Country’s community and political leaders, faith leaders/ groups, young people/institutions, and policies would be tuned to promote action at different levels as may be needed. We need leaders who lead by example and people who listen and follow the guidance of the leaders. For instance, city policies to incorporate periodic climate change reviews and action in their areas and involve all in working together. Have common days to give back to the environment with programs well-tuned to Action. The Laudato Youth says we United young people for Climate Action. I desire to see a world that unites in prayer and climate action to build a sustainable world for all and future generations. The goal would be to move beyond rhetoric and negotiations and instead prioritize concrete measures and commitments by individuals and nations because in the end the poor person and many young people do not go to a negotiation table but suffer the consequences of Climate Change most.
For the many scholars I have listened to, one of the main criticisms of the current COP format is the lack of binding agreements and enforceable targets. While the Paris Agreement was a significant milestone, many argue that it lacks teeth, and there is a need for an event that goes beyond voluntary commitments. A COP for Action could potentially address this concern by establishing more robust and binding agreements, ensuring that countries are held accountable for Action and for their pledges.
Additionally, a COP for Action would provide a space for knowledge sharing and collaboration among young people, leaders, and nations. It would also allow countries to showcase successful initiatives and best practices, fostering a spirit of learning and innovation. This type of focused event would encourage communities and countries to work together, building on each other’s strengths and experiences to accelerate progress and so give a good example to the young people and challenge them to work harder for their future.
Moreover, a COP for Action could help mobilize the necessary financial resources to implement climate solutions. Many developing countries struggle to access the funding required to invest in sustainable technologies and infrastructure. What we see today is a lot of investment in raising awareness than in funding Action for rural areas like my home village I have always heard pleas about climate change and seen consequences like floods, changes in harvest seasons, poor yields, etc. but I seldom see leaders gathering us for action as it was in the earlier years when growing up like as Child local council leaders would mobilize communities for action as a community service program which involved clean up and tree planting etc… I believe by bringing together governments, development banks, and private sector actors, a COP for Action could serve as a catalyst for increased investment in climate-friendly projects.
It is crucial to emphasize that a COP for Action should complement the existing COP meetings rather than replace them. The current format still provides an essential space for dialogue, negotiation, and consensus-building. However, a dedicated event focusing on action would ensure that the global community moves beyond talk and into immediate, practical steps toward combating climate change.
In conclusion, the need for a COP for Action is evident as I reflect on the ongoing events of COP28. Pope Francis’ remarks were “We have to make a choice” As climate change continues to pose ever-increasing threats, the time for decisive and tangible action is now. By convening world leaders and stakeholders solely dedicated to implementing climate solutions, we can create a framework for real change and forge a sustainable future. Let us hope that such an event becomes a reality from our current COP28 Meetings. I want to encourage young people to make good choices and appreciate the efforts of world leaders in the current COP28.
Laudato Youth – United for Climate Action
Br. Adolf Laudato youth mentor