Mary Adebote, an IGC IGEP Fellow and Ph.D. student in the Fish and Wildlife Conservation program at Virginia Tech, takes a moment to send us a 'Postcard from the Field'. She writes to us as she departs from the 29th Conference of the Parties held in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Mary with "Climate Change is real" sign.

 

My First COP29 Experience: A Journey of Inspiration and Action

Written by Mary Opeyemi Adebote

Attending COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, as a proud fellow of the Global Change Center at Virginia Tech, was an unforgettable experience! I participated in the second week of the conference, immersing myself in insightful side events organized by countries, NGOs, activists, and various stakeholders. From the Ocean Pavilion to the Nigeria Pavilion, the African Pavilion, the Health Pavilion, and the Art Pavilion in the Green Zone, the range of conversations and collaborations was both eye-opening and empowering.  

At the Ocean Pavilion, I deepened my understanding of how polar ice melting affects coastal communities and global weather systems. A highlight was the premiere of "Our Ocean", a moving documentary that underscored the urgent need for collective action to protect our marine ecosystems.  

The Nigeria Pavilion hosted a compelling session by Dr. Dola of University College London, centered on advancing Africa’s blue economy and maritime sector. Maritime experts raised concerns about the challenges impeding Africa’s blue economy initiatives, while also sharing actionable pathways to unlock the sector's immense potential for the continent's prosperity.  

At the Health Pavilion, I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Carol Franco from Virginia Tech, where discussions spotlighted the interconnectedness of climate change and public health. The session reinforced the critical need for integrated approaches to address the ripple effects of climate-related challenges on human health and well-being.  

The Art Pavilion was an unforgettable blend of creativity and advocacy. Artists used the power of visual storytelling to deliver hard-hitting climate messages, reminding us that art can move hearts and minds in ways words sometimes cannot.  

As the summit concluded, a major milestone was achieved with significant financial pledges to support climate action in developing countries. While this commitment brought a sense of hope, the reactions from developing nations were mixed—many welcomed the promise of resources but also stressed the importance of ensuring that these pledges translate into tangible, timely impacts on the ground.  

Two images from conference. Left: Mary in front of conference sign. Right: Mary and Dr. Carol Franco.
Left: Mary in front of conference sign. Right: Mary and Dr. Carol Franco.

Leaving Baku, I feel recharged and more determined than ever to connect science to action for a sustainable future. As I return to my research and advocacy work, I carry the echoes of this summit—a powerful reminder that we are strongest when we act together.  

🌿 Together, we can forge a better tomorrow. Let’s keep pushing for change! 💚

Mary Opeyemi Adebote is an Interfaces of Global Change fellow working with Dr. Emmanuel Frimpong and Dr. Holly Kindsvater in Virginia Tech’s Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation. Her research takes a socio-ecological approach to conserving fisheries resources.