Turkish climate champion advances diplomacy in US ahead of COP31
As Türkiye prepares to host the 31st United Nations climate conference later this year, its designated climate envoy has intensified international outreach efforts in the United States. The upcoming summit, widely known as COP31, is scheduled to take place in November, with main events in Antalya and a leaders’ segment in Istanbul.
Samed Ağırbaş, head of the Istanbul-based Zero Waste Foundation and Türkiye’s high-level climate champion for COP31, held a series of meetings in Washington, DC aimed at strengthening global cooperation on climate action, sustainable development and circular economy initiatives.
During his visit, Ağırbaş met with representatives from the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions to discuss ways of increasing private-sector engagement in climate policy. Talks focused on how businesses and investors can contribute more effectively to emission reduction targets and long-term sustainability goals in the lead-up to COP31.
He also held discussions with officials from the World Bank Group on scaling up climate finance and supporting investments aligned with sustainable development objectives. Expanding circular economy projects and strengthening environmental resilience were among the priorities highlighted.
In addition, Ağırbaş met with leaders of the World Resources Institute to explore data-driven approaches to climate mitigation and adaptation. Conversations centered on enhancing international partnerships and encouraging collaboration among governments, businesses and local authorities.
Türkiye has increasingly promoted zero-waste principles as part of its broader climate agenda. In 2022, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution spearheaded by Türkiye designating March 30 as the International Day of Zero Waste, a move seen as reinforcing the country’s environmental leadership ahead of its COP31 presidency.
Officials say the diplomatic outreach reflects Türkiye’s ambition to position COP31 as a platform for practical solutions and inclusive global partnerships in the fight against climate change.
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