COP31 Summit in Turkey to Focus on Decarbonization and Resilience

Antalya, Turkey, will host the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change from November 9-20, 2026. The summit will convene global representatives from states, international institutions, local governments, businesses, and civil society.

The conference takes place against a backdrop of accelerating climate impacts and the urgent need to bolster the Paris Agreement. Discussions will center on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, adapting to climate change, climate finance, and the energy transition. The UN Global Compact and its country networks will actively promote private sector engagement in combating climate change, highlighting non-state actor initiatives.

Tunisia, a participating nation, is increasingly affected by global climate change consequences. The country has set ambitious goals under the Paris Agreement, including a 41% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030. Tunisia is also pursuing a low-carbon economy, targeting carbon neutrality by 2050, aligning with the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C or 2°C.

Efforts are underway to reduce emissions across key sectors such as energy, transport, industry, agriculture, and waste management. The cement industry, responsible for approximately 14% of the country's total emissions, presents a significant opportunity for reduction. The implementation of national and international market mechanisms, alongside carbon pricing, is seen as a potential solution to curb greenhouse gas emissions.