The European Federation of Geologists (EFG) will participate in the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), taking place from 9 to 20 November 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye. Building on its engagement in previous editions, EFG will contribute to discussions on international cooperation, sustainable development and the implementation of effective climate solutions through three confirmed events, including an official UNFCCC side event.
EFG will be represented by Global Ambassador Maureen Gallagher, who will lead the delegation and coordinate its activities, President David Govoni, and External Relations Officer Arda Arcasoy.
Advancing Geoscience in Climate Action
Addressing climate change requires more than setting ambitious targets. It also depends on scientific knowledge, effective cooperation and the capacity to turn commitments into practical solutions.
Geoscientists contribute essential expertise to this process, from understanding groundwater systems and assessing geological hazards to supporting carbon storage, responsible resource management and the development of clean energy technologies.
At COP31, EFG will emphasise the importance of integrating geological knowledge into climate policies and implementation strategies. Through dialogue with international partners, researchers, policymakers and industry representatives, the Federation aims to strengthen cooperation and support climate solutions grounded in scientific evidence and long-term sustainability.
Strengthening EFG’s Role in International Climate Dialogue
A key development in EFG’s participation this year is the inclusion of the session “International Cooperation Safeguarding Sustainable Development in a Changing Arctic” in the official UNFCCC side-event programme. This marks the first time an EFG side-event proposal has been accepted for the official programme, creating an important platform for the Federation to contribute directly to international climate discussions alongside stakeholders from different sectors and regions.
With the Arctic experiencing significant environmental changes, the event will bring attention to the importance of international cooperation, science diplomacy and scientific knowledge in supporting sustainable development. It will provide an opportunity to explore how collaborative approaches can inform responses to shared environmental challenges, drawing on relevant experience from EU-funded projects such as SPECS and BOREAS.
EFG’s wider participation at COP31 will also address the practical aspects of implementing climate solutions, including the role of scientific research, reliable measurement, effective governance and cooperation among institutions, businesses and communities. Through these contributions, EFG seeks to strengthen the connection between geoscientific expertise, climate policy and action on the ground.
Key Events
Throughout COP31, EFG will contribute to three events exploring international cooperation, climate solutions and the role of geoscience in sustainable development:
- Monday, 9 November 2026 (13:30–15:00) – Climate Action: Implementing Transferable Climate Solutions that Endure
Location: Italy Pavilion - Thursday, 19 November 2026 (15:00–16:30) – International Cooperation Safeguarding Sustainable Development in a Changing Arctic
Location: Official UNFCCC Side Event - Thursday, 19 November 2026 (15:30–17:00) – SOGESID Collaboration
Location: Italy Pavilion
The events will offer opportunities to exchange knowledge, share experiences and explore how scientific expertise and international partnerships can help advance effective and lasting climate action.
Get Involved
Whether attending COP31 in Antalya or following the discussions remotely, there are several ways to connect with EFG and engage in its activities:
- Meet EFG’s representatives during COP31 or arrange a conversation with Global Ambassador Maureen Gallagher at maureen.gallagher@eurogeologists.eu or via LinkedIn;
- Join EFG’s events and discussions on international cooperation, sustainable development and practical climate solutions;
- Explore EFG’s projects, research and initiatives at www.eurogeologists.eu; and
- Follow EFG’s social media channels for updates, event highlights and further participation details throughout COP31.
Additional programme information and opportunities to participate will be shared as they become available.
