As the world looks ahead to COP30 in Belém, Brazil (November 10–21, 2025), the Brazilian COP Presidency’s Mutirão Action Agenda urges global actors to rally around the Global Stocktake as a Globally Determined Contribution (GDC). This call emphasizes implementation, transparency, and inclusive governance.
In response, the Columbia Climate School launches Countdown to COP30—a dynamic series of virtual and in-person sessions showcasing Columbia’s interdisciplinary leadership. Each session will highlight actionable research, policy insights, and community engagement aligned with the six priority themes of the Mutirão Agenda. The series reflects Columbia’s deep commitment to equity, science-based decision-making, and global collaboration.
Join us for the kickoff event in the series:
What’s at Stake at COP30: Justice and Global Action
Date: September 29, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM EDT
Location: ROOM 315
Moderator: Lisa E. Sachs (Director, Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment)
Panelists:
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Kristina Douglass (Associate Professor, Columbia Climate School)
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Sue Biniaz (Former Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate, U.S. State Department)
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Jeffrey Schlegelmilch (Director, National Center for Disaster Preparedness)
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Kalain Hossein (Journalist + Columbia Climate School ’25)
Discussion Focus:
This panel will provide a clear overview of COP30’s agenda and key priorities, examining how the Mutirão Action Agenda builds upon—or diverges from—COP29. Experts will explore the critical role COP30 can play in advancing climate justice and global action, and what’s needed to ensure outcomes are not only ambitious but also effectively implemented and sustained beyond the conference.
