Türkiye announces bid to host COP31, unveils climate action goals
President Erdogan delivers speech at the World Leaders Climate Action Summit (WLCAS) during the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 12, 2024. (AA Photo)
Türkiye has officially announced its candidacy to host the 2026 U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP31), President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday.
Addressing COP29, Erdogan expressed gratitude to the nations that supported Türkiye’s bid and outlined the country’s ambitious climate initiatives aimed at achieving net zero emissions by 2053.
Climate initiatives and renewable energy goals
Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to transform key sectors in line with its climate vision, noting the implementation of the Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy Action Plans for 2024-2030.
“We have increased the share of renewable energy in our total installed capacity to 59%, placing us 5th in Europe and 11th globally,” Erdogan stated.
He also announced plans to expand wind and solar energy capacity from 31,000 megawatts to 120,000 megawatts by 2035. In nuclear energy, the goal is to reach 20,000 megawatts by 2050.
Türkiye’s National Energy Efficiency Action Plan aims to cut 100 million tons of carbon emissions by 2030, while the Zero Waste Project has already prevented 5.9 million tons of greenhouse gases.
Environmental consequences of Israeli attacks in Gaza
In his address, Erdogan also condemned Israel’s ongoing attacks on Gaza, calling them an “unlawful, immoral, and unconscionable” assault on Palestine and Lebanon.
He pointed to the severe humanitarian and environmental destruction caused by Israeli actions, emphasizing the long-term effects of chemical contamination in Gaza’s soil and water supply.
“We believe those responsible for this disaster must be held accountable in international courts,” Erdogan added, urging for global action to address the environmental toll on Gazan children’s future.
