The stakes are not just environmental; they are economic, social, and existential, threatening the stability of nations and the well-being of future generations.

All About COP’29

As the world converged in Baku, Azerbaijan, for COP29, a pivotal chapter unfolded in the global fight against climate change. This 29th Conference of Parties under the UNFCCC framework brought together world leaders from 11th to 22nd November 2024, a gathering charged with addressing humanity’s most urgent crisis—climate change.

At the heart of COP29 laid a critical agenda: setting a new target for climate finance, known as the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), committed to set at least USD 300 billion annually by 2035 to support climate action in developing countries. This funding is expected to come from diverse sources, including public and private sectors, bilateral and multilateral channels, and alternative mechanisms, with developed countries leading the effort.

The UNFCCC now estimates that USD 5.8 to 5.9 trillion is needed by 2030 to help developing nations mitigate, adapt to, and recover from the adverse effects of climate change.

United Way of Bengaluru: Turning Global Goals into Local Action

In Bengaluru, India, these global priorities find a powerful ally in United Way of Bengaluru (UWBe). Through its dedicated efforts in mitigation and adaptation, UWBe embodies the spirit of NCQG, driving change on the ground to secure a sustainable future.

Mitigation: Planting Hope, Reducing Emissions

Mitigation lies at the core of UWBe’s environmental initiatives. By investing in afforestation and clean energy projects, UWBe not only reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but also restores ecosystems.

• Afforestation Projects: In Tumkur’s Koratgere Botanical Garden, UWBe planted 1 lakh saplings, contributing to long-term carbon sequestration.
• Mangrove Restoration: In Tamil Nadu’s Pulicat region, large-scale mangrove plantations shield vulnerable coastal communities while reducing GHG emissions.
• Solar-Powered Streetlights: Over 2,023 solar streetlights installed in 2023-24 prevent emissions from coal-based energy sources, demonstrating the dual benefits of innovation and sustainability.

Collectively, these efforts have resulted in removing 4,068 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere this year—equivalent to taking 884 cars off the road annually.

Adaptation: Safeguarding Water, Preventing Floods

Climate change has brought erratic rainfall patterns and increased flooding risks, making water conservation a critical focus for UWBe. Through campaigns like Wake the Lake and One Billion Drops, the organization is pioneering water resilience in urban areas.

• Water Harvesting Structures: In 2023-24, UWBe constructed reservoirs capable of storing 73 crore liters of water, equivalent to meeting the daily water needs of 60% of Bengaluru households for a day.
• Flood Prevention and Groundwater Recharge: By capturing runoff and replenishing aquifers, these campaigns protect urban ecosystems while addressing water scarcity.

A Shared Mission: Global Goals, Local Solutions

The intersection of global frameworks like COP29 and grassroots initiatives by organizations like UWBe underscores a vital truth: climate action requires collaboration across borders and sectors.

While COP29 sets ambitious global goals, it is the relentless work of local organizations like UWBe that transforms these aspirations into reality. From planting mangroves to lighting up streets sustainably, UWBe’s efforts demonstrate how localized actions can ripple into global impacts—one sapling, one solar light, and one water drop at a time.

As the world gathers in Baku, United Way of Bengaluru reminds us that the path to a resilient future starts with empowered communities taking bold steps today.