The 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) took place in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024. On November 21, a side event themed "Actions and Progress in Reducing Pollution and Carbon Emission in Beijing" was successfully held as the concluding section of the local government day of the China Pavilion for this conference.

The side event featured Beijing's measures for and achievements in actively addressing climate change, promoting green and low-carbon lifestyles, and other relevant aspects. It also showcased exemplary cases, and shared the stories of how a megacity like Beijing can implement the "dual carbon" strategy and pursue green and low-carbon development.

The side event brought together representatives from local governments, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in China and other countries and regions, as well as companies from Beijing, to share their respective best practices in climate action.

During the section of discussion, experts from various organizations including Turku Environmental Protection Office in Finland, Beijing Energy Group, Beijing Urban Drainage Group, and Jiangshanfu Community in Houshayu Town, Shunyi District, Beijing, among others, shared their insights into hot topics such as Beijing's green and low-carbon development path, carbon neutrality practices in sewage treatment, construction of climate-resilient communities, and studies of cases of international city climate actions.

Over the years, Beijing has established a sound communication and cooperation mechanism with many local governments in China and other countries and regions in terms of pollution control and climate actions, gaining strong support from organizations such as C40 and ICLEI. The city has also received accolades from the United Nations Environment Programme for its practices of air pollution control.

(Source: Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau)