Acting Net Zero Secretary comments on COP29

Commenting on the conclusion of the COP29 summit in Azerbaijan, Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said:

“Climate finance is key to climate action – as it is essential to allow developing countries to decarbonise in a fair way which supports communities, builds resilience, and addresses loss and damage caused by the climate change, in particular frequent devastating weather events.   

“While agreement on a new climate finance goal at COP29 represents a step forward, it is clear that for many, the goal falls short of what is necessary to meet the needs of, in particular, the Global South. Investing in those countries is an investment for us all. This is not charity, it is an imperative.

“It is crucial that we all accelerate climate action ahead of COP30 – and this includes scaling up good quality climate finance that meets the needs of the most vulnerable. 

“It is also vital that countries continue to make progress towards the global clean energy transition – and in this, Scotland’s innovation, expertise, and vast renewable energy resources will play an important role in building on last year’s historic call for countries to 'transition away' from fossil fuels.

“Finally, nations must ensure that the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage is adequately capitalised and replenished so that it can start urgently supporting communities in need. These actions require more than promises – they require a firm commitment to deliver on climate justice.”