A quick-start guide to COP27

IEMA’s new publication COP27 IEMA Policy Briefing provides a quick-read guide to the key themes and issues to be discussed in Egypt in November. Everyone reading this will be well aware of the well-publicised goal to limit the increase in global warming to 1.5˚C above pre-industrial levels, and the briefing explains why, globally, we are on track to reach perhaps a, worrying, increase of 4 ˚C.

Even with the current increase of 1.2 ˚C we’re starting to see an increase in extreme climate events, making adaptation a non-negotiable necessity. The higher up the dial that the increase goes, the more areas of the world will be made uninhabitable, no matter how creative we are with adaptive measures. So continuing and improved global coordination on mitigation, projects and measures which eliminate or reduce greenhouse gas emissions, will be critical to prevent widespread devastation to the lives of our fellow humans around the world.

Our short explainer looks at the key themes and hot topics that will arise at COP27. Climate finance is flowing, but nowhere near at the level it needs to be to reach our goals on temperature rises and adaptation. A progressive debate should take place on ‘fair’ shares of finance, types of finance flows, incentivising private investment, and how to reach the initially promised US$100 billion (never mind the rest that will be needed). It is vitally important that COP27 moves this on, as once the finance is working, the rest will surely follow.

A backdrop to this year’s COP is of course the war in Ukraine and the accompanying energy crisis which is having repercussions around the world. As ever, the poorest and most vulnerable will suffer the most, and discussions on compromises on meeting immediate energy needs versus moving away from fossil fuels will be inevitable.

IEMA calls for real progress on programmes and pledges moving from the drawing board to delivery, turning ambition into action. As the UK hands over the presidency of COP, IEMA calls on the UK government to create and retain world-leading environmental standards and regulations, along with the essential capacity to enforce these rules.

Our guide is available in both English and Arabic.

Chloë Fiddy

Policy and Engagement Lead

Chloë is the Policy and Engagement Lead for Climate Change and Energy and Social Sustainability at IEMA. Within this remit she works on projects relating to greenhouse gas reporting and transition planning and reporting, including adaptation, as well as social sustainability and just transition issues. She is particularly interested in finding practical solutions and approaches which lead to standardised, replicable and trustworthy reporting, so that decision-makers have better data to work with. Previously Chloë has worked at senior levels in the manufacturing and retail sectors, and in climate and sustainable development planning roles in the public sector.

Her prior business experience and her understanding of the way that the public sector functions inform her approach to climate change and energy and social sustainability policy and engagement at IEMA. She is a Trustee on the board of Uttlesford Citizens Advice and a District Councillor and is active in her community. In her spare time she enjoys live music and cooking for family and friends.