COP26 - hope for the future

This November, Glasgow will be hosting the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26). But what exactly is COP26? What will get covered? And what would be the best outcomes we can hope for?

Tell me more about COP26!

For almost three decades the United Nations has been bringing together almost all countries on Earth to chat about the global climate. Called a ‘Conference of Parties’, they have developed to become a global priority as it’s becoming increasingly vital that we tackle climate change and help to get it under control.

190 world leaders will be descending on Scotland for twelve days of talks alongside businesses and citizens. In 2015, leaders signed the Paris Agreement where countries have agreed to limit global warming to around 1.5 degrees. 

We aren’t on track for this.

Progress has been made but the science is showing that much more needs to be done to keep the 1.5 degrees on track. It requires a halving of emissions over the next ten years and net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“Securing a brighter future for our children and future generations requires countries to take urgent action at home and abroad to turn the tide on climate change. It is with ambition, courage and collaboration as we approach the crucial COP26 summit in the UK that we can seize this moment together, so we can recover cleaner, rebuild greener and restore our planet.”

UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson

What will get covered?

There are four main goals of COP26.

• Protect communities and natural habitats

We need to protect and restore ecosystems. As well as come up with ways to build defences for climate change. Making infrastructure more resilient.

• Mobilise finance

At least $100bn in climate finance is required per year to help secure global net zero.

• Global net zero by 2050

All countries have to show their emission reduction targets to help us keep 1.5 degrees in reach.

• Work together

At COP26 the Paris Rulebook will need to be finalised so that the Paris Agreement can be finalised.

What do we hope will be agreed at COP26?

All country participants will be asked about their plans to reach ‘net zero’ by 2050. To succeed, we need leaders to make ambitious pledges. This will include increasing investments in renewable energy, ending use of fossil fuels and a switch to greener transport.

What can Earth Cubs do?

Why not arrange your own mini climate protest? Make some signs up and walk around your playground at lunchtime.

Learn what the Global Goals are and why they are important. Download our Global Goals Pack!