The University of Reading is set to showcase its pioneering climate research at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

A team from the university's Walker Institute will be engaging with global leaders and contributing crucial scientific insights to international climate policy discussions.

Running from November 11 to 22, the university's participation will be a blend of in-person and virtual involvement.

(Image: Walker Institute)

A core team will be physically present in Baku, while the Whiteknights campus will facilitate broader engagement through remote participation.

Professor Rosalind Cornforth, director of the Walker Institute, emphasised the importance of the summit, stating: "COP29 comes at a crucial time in our fight against climate change.

"The global community faces urgent decisions about climate adaptation and mitigation.

"Our role is to ensure these decisions are grounded in robust scientific evidence, particularly regarding support for vulnerable nations."

For almost a decade, the Walker Institute has spearheaded the university's involvement in COP, and it holds the status of an accredited official observer.

As part of its role, the institute will co-host two official events focusing on Transboundary Climate Risks and the implementation of the COP28 Declaration on Climate, Relief, Recovery, and Peace.

The discussions will centre on methods and tools for viable climate adaptation options in fragile, conflict-affected settings.

The events are scheduled for Thursday, November 14, from 6.30pm to 8pm in the Blue Zone, and Saturday, November 16, from 1pm to 3pm at the UN Pavilion.

In addition to the university's representation in Baku, early-career environmental scientists from Reading will partake in the innovative COP Climate Action Studio (COPCAS).

This platform will allow them to engage with global climate policy discussions remotely.

(Image: Walker Institute)

As an accredited official observer, the university's representatives in Baku will be providing impartial scientific advice to lawmakers and exploring potential research partnerships and funding opportunities.

The Walker Institute, located within the University of Reading, is committed to conducting global research that enhances understanding of future climate scenarios and their impacts on people's lives.

The institute has been pivotal in positioning the University of Reading as an official Observer of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties process.

Its research and insights are aimed at advancing climate science excellence and informing policy decisions, particularly for vulnerable nations.

As the world grapples with the escalating climate crisis, the contributions from the University of Reading's Walker Institute at COP29 are anticipated to be significant in shaping a more resilient and equitable future.

The Walker Institute's involvement underscores the crucial intersection of science and policy in the global response to climate change.