Baku, November 2024 – The 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024, gathering representatives from governments, international organisations, NGOs, and the private sector. The conference aims to identify concrete solutions and global strategies to tackle the climate crisis and promote a worldwide transition toward a sustainable, low-carbon economy.
The Italian National Council of Geologists (CNG) and the European Federation of Geologists (EFG) reaffirm their commitment to climate action by presenting a joint proposal to Italy’s Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security (MASE). Their initiative, recognised by MASE for addressing crucial topics for global attention, will be highlighted at a side event on November 18.
CNG and EFG will host this event titled “Foundations of an Innovative and Effective Global Climate Policy: Critical Minerals for Green Energy” at the Italian Pavilion in the “Blue Zone” of the Baku Olympic Stadium. The initiative aims to emphasise the increasing importance of critical minerals, essential materials for developing the technologies needed for renewable energy production.
Participating in COP29 offers CNG and EFG the opportunity to influence global climate policies, build international partnerships, and inspire other organisations to take climate action. The panel discussion will focus on strategies for a green energy transition, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of sourcing and responsibly using critical minerals. Regarding the joint participation of CNG and EFG at COP29, CNG President Arcangelo Francesco Violo states, “the collaboration between the Italian National Council of Geologists and the European Federation of Geologists is well-established. This bond is strengthened by shared goals and a common vision of the key role that professional geologists will play in the coming years.”
“Even in the energy sector,” adds Violo, “geologists will stand out as key professionals, ensuring a safe and sustainable supply of critical minerals while minimising environmental and social impacts and promoting a transition to a low-carbon energy future.”
“At COP29 we bring essential expertise to the forefront of climate adaptation,” declares David Govoni, EFG President. “With close to 30% of the world’s infrastructure at risk from climate impacts by 2050, geologists are indispensable in shaping adaptation strategies and assessing infrastructure vulnerability. Geologists have an economic role. COP29 will tackle pressing financial and regulatory issues, including adaptation funding, with estimated needs ranging between $194 and $366 billion per year. Geologists’ expertise is essential,” concludes Govoni, “in guiding data-driven discussions on infrastructure vulnerability from climate impacts and adaptation funding needs.”
Italian National Council of Geologists (CNG):
The Italian National Council of Geologists is the national institutional body representing the professional category in Italy. Specifically, it operates nationally to enhance the public value of the profession, promoting initiatives aimed at improving the technical and cultural aspects of the profession. Additionally, CNG is committed to promoting the protection of natural and environmental resources.
European Federation of Geologists (EFG):
The European Federation of Geologists represents 27 European National Associations, nearly 50,000 geologists, and reaches out to a broader international network of 150,000 geology professionals. As a non-profit organization, EFG advocates for the profession at the European level. The Federation’s objectives include promoting and protecting the profession, and supporting the responsible use of natural resources to enhance public and environmental safety.
Media Contacts:
Contact name: Federica Maria Gargano – CNG Communication Assistant
Phone: +39 3332077980
Email: addettostampa@cngeologi.it
Website: https://www.cngeologi.it/
Contact name: Anita Stein – EFG Communication Manager
Phone: +32 22198035
Email: comms@eurogeologists.eu
Website: https://eurogeologists.eu/
