COP29: Global push to cut Methane emissions from organic waste gains momentum

A decisive step toward combating climate change unfolded at COP29 as 30 countries, accounting for nearly half of the global methane emissions from organic waste, endorsed a landmark declaration to tackle this potent greenhouse gas.

With organic waste ranking as the third-largest source of human-induced methane emissions, behind agriculture and fossil fuels, the Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration promises transformative action.

The initiative, spearheaded by the COP29 Presidency and developed in collaboration with the UNEP-convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), aligns with the 2021 Global Methane Pledge (GMP).

Under the GMP, nations aim to cut methane emissions by 30% below 2020 levels by 2030. Signatories—including seven of the world’s top ten organic waste emitters—have committed to sector-specific methane reduction targets, integrating them into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

“Fast-tracking actions to reduce methane from organic waste is critical to keep the goals of the Paris Agreement within reach. This declaration paves the way for improved organic waste management, food waste prevention, and circular economy opportunities,” noted Martina Otto, Head of the CCAC Secretariat.

Over 50% of municipal solid waste globally is organic, and nearly a third of all food produced annually is wasted. These challenges, if unaddressed, exacerbate methane emissions and strain food systems worldwide.

On the same day , the Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers was unveiled, emphasizing the central role of farmers in climate resilience.

This groundbreaking platform, developed by the COP29 Presidency and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), consolidates scattered support and funding programs into a single accessible system.

“Farmers are key agents of change. The Harmoniya Initiative equips them with the tools and support they need to drive sustainable agrifood systems,” remarked Kaveh Zahedi, FAO’s Director of Climate Change and Biodiversity.

Through Harmoniya, farmers will access an online portal offering resources, guidelines, and financing options.

This initiative will bridge critical gaps, enabling rural communities to adopt sustainable practices that reduce emissions, particularly in livestock management and manure systems.

Demonstrating regional leadership, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Agriculture partnered with the UNEP-convened CCAC to develop a methane reduction roadmap tailored to its agricultural sector.

This collaboration underscores the country’s commitment to global methane targets and innovative climate solutions.

“Azerbaijan’s role as host of COP29 highlights its dedication to advancing both regional and global climate agendas,” noted Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 president.

Beyond methane, COP29 spotlighted sustainable tourism as a pivotal industry in the fight against climate change.

At the Green Zone, a panel on "Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism" showcased innovative solutions to minimize tourism's environmental footprint while preserving local economies and heritage.

Experts explored how practices like ecotourism, green infrastructure, and responsible travel could align with climate goals.

Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, moderated a session on “Slow Food, Low Impact,” which emphasized local agriproducts' role in promoting low-carbon tourism.

Ugandan agronomist and Slow Food President Edward Mukiibi highlighted the potential of sustainable agriculture to transform travel experiences.

As COP29 ends, the collaborative spirit remains evident. From methane reduction roadmaps to innovative tourism solutions, the conference demonstrates that international cooperation is key to tackling the climate crisis.

With the stakes higher than ever, initiatives like the Reducing Methane from Organic Waste Declaration and the Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers offer hope.

By addressing emissions at their source and empowering local communities, these actions underscore a commitment to a sustainable, resilient future.

“Only through collective, bold action can we keep the Paris Agreement goals within reach,” Babayev asserted. "This decade is critical for the planet."

As nations rally to reduce methane and embrace sustainable practices, the decisions made in Baku could mark a turning point for global climate action