Sustainability at COP31
At COP31, to be hosted by Türkiye, sustainability is considered as an integral part of conference planning, implementation, post-event, and legacy processes. The sustainability approach of COP31 is based on a holistic understanding that covers the entire life cycle of the conference—from emissions management to resource efficiency, responsible procurement to inclusive participation, and long-term legacy.
Areas of Sustainability Implementation
- 01
Climate Action and Emissions Management
Measuring greenhouse gas emissions associated with COP31, prioritizing reduction at the source, and transparently reporting results. Priority areas include energy efficiency, renewable energy options, low-emission local transportation, efficient logistics, responsible procurement, and prevention of waste generation.
- 02
Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency
Supporting waste prevention, increased reuse, source separation, and improved recovery in line with Türkiye’s Zero Waste approach. Key elements include reducing single-use plastics, preferring reusable and recyclable products, preventing food waste, and increasing water efficiency.
- 03
Sustainable Operations and Responsible Procurement
Considering environmental, social, and ethical sustainability criteria in operational activities and procurement processes. Opportunities to support the participation of local businesses, SMEs, cooperatives, and women entrepreneurs in supply processes will be evaluated, and solutions that facilitate access to sustainable services and practices for participants will be supported.
- 04
Accessibility, Inclusivity, and Fair Participation
COP31 aims to create an accessible, inclusive, and non-discriminatory conference environment for all participants. Accessibility needs will be considered in event venues, transportation, information services, and digital platforms, and meaningful participation by diverse groups will be encouraged.
- 05
Health, Safety, and Well-being
Protecting the health, safety, and well-being of employees, contractors, volunteers, and participants is a fundamental element of sustainable event management. Climate-sensitive health risks and other possible risks will be assessed, and necessary preparation, information, and intervention processes will be established.
- 06
Collaboration, Stakeholder Engagement, and Capacity Building
COP31 supports cooperation and knowledge sharing among governments, the business world, financial institutions, academia, civil society, and local communities. Through conference programs and participant activities, increasing climate and sustainability awareness, considering stakeholder views, and supporting capacity-building activities are among the objectives.
- 07
Transparency, Accountability, and Effective Governance
Sustainability performance at COP31 will be monitored based on defined targets and indicators; results and significant data limitations will be shared with the public as appropriate. The COP31 Sustainability Targets and Indicators Matrix will be prepared for systematic tracking of performance.
- 08
Positive Legacy and Long-Term Impact
COP31 supports the creation of environmental, social, and economic benefits that may continue beyond the conference. Initiatives that can have a long-term impact in areas such as urban greening, restoration of natural habitats, clean energy, climate innovation, and knowledge sharing will be considered.
- 09
Personal Data Protection and Data Governance
Processing personal data at COP31 will be carried out in accordance with applicable legislation, especially Türkiye's Personal Data Protection Law No. 6698. Protection of personal data will be observed in sustainability reporting, using anonymized or aggregated data wherever possible.
In addition to the effective management of environmental and social impacts, it is aimed that the applications developed, experiences gained, and collaborations established during the conference contribute permanently to the future.
COP31 Sustainability Policy
The COP31 Sustainability Policy outlines the fundamental principles and sustainability objectives of this approach and guides the COP31 Event Sustainability Management System, which will be established in line with ISO 20121. The policy aims for the effective management of environmental and social impacts, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, efficient use of resources, support for inclusive and accessible participation, and creation of a positive impact beyond the conference.
For detailed information on COP31’s sustainability principles, commitments, and implementation framework, you can review the COP31 Sustainability Policy.
Feedback
You can share your opinions, suggestions, and feedback regarding COP31’s sustainability approach and the application of the policy via the communication channel:
sustainability@cop31.tr