How a global price on GHG emissions from shipping can incentivise and finance a green transition

This panel is a collaboration between The Sunrise Project and the UN Global Compact. It will be moderated by Amanda Starbuck, a member of the UN Secretary General’s High Level Expert Group on climate change and Program Director at The Sunrise Project.

Opening remarks will be made by Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General, and Amanda will be joined by a panel of civil society experts and thought leaders on private sector decarbonisation.

The panel discussion will introduce some of the challenges on addressing Scope 3 emissions, frame the debate, and offer some initial avenues and ideas for credible and Paris-aligned solutions.

This event aims to generate a collaborative space to discuss alternative solutions for achieving Net Zero, and overcoming barriers to Scope 3 decarbonisation. The conversation will not be about promoting existing successes, or proven metrics and approaches for assessing climate action, but a place for innovative and new approaches to be discussed and interrogated in the spirit of reaching shared goals, and overcoming common obstacles

"Innovative Technology and Risk Mitigation Strategies for Scaling Climate-Positive Investments in Emerging Markets," co-hosted by the UN Global Compact Networks of Indonesia and Thailand, will explore how emerging markets can leverage technology and financial innovation to drive effective climate action. As climate challenges intensify, this session will highlight how AI-driven analytics, IoT-enabled resource management, and blockchain for carbon tracking, along with financial tools like resilience bonds and risk-sharing models, can unlock climate-positive investments. Through collaborative, cross-sectoral approaches, the session will align with COP29's goals, showcasing how emerging economies can advance climate resilience and sustainable growth in the Asia-Pacific region.

The session will be co-hosted by the UN Global Compact Networks Indonesia and Thailand.

BUSINESS & CLIMATE AMBITION

The global meeting of leaders known as COP 29 (United Nations Climate Change Conference) will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024. Its goal is to discuss urgent measures to combat global climate change. COP 29 is expected to play a crucial role in leveraging climate ambition and securing the necessary financing for an environmentally responsible and socially just transition, as well as achieving the long-term temperature goals established in the Paris Agreement.

This ambitious goal requires immediate and coordinated actions from the business sector to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect vulnerable ecosystems, and ensure a sustainable future for all generations. In this context, the UN Global Compact – Brazil Network will hold the side event “Business & Climate Ambition,” bringing together business leaders for a unique moment of global connections and discussions on the progress of the Brazilian private sector in the climate agenda.

Throughout the event, there will be discussions on the need to increase ambition so that business strategies align with scientific targets and the goal of keeping the average global temperature rise below 1.5°C. Additionally, the event will explore ways to enable climate mitigation and adaptation actions through climate finance that ensure a just transition, leaving no one behind. Actions are already underway, reaffirming the business commitment to the Global Climate Agenda.

-Promote a qualified debate on the risks and opportunities of climate change in the business sector and how to adapt to this reality.

-Present progress and challenges of corporate climate actions and foster new ideas and inspiring solutions towards a transparent, socially just, and inclusive net-zero economy.

-Launch the Climate Justice Notebooks for the Fashion & Textiles and Health sectors.

-Recognize case studies from environmental movements: +Water, Net Zero Ambition, and Circular Connection.

This event is by invitation only.  Please reach out to producao@pactoglobal.org.br if you have any questions.   

This drop-in session will bring together practitioners in the ocean finance community to discuss key actions and to-dos to increase the investment pipeline in a Sustainable Ocean Economy that is good for nature, climate and people

This ambitious goal requires immediate and coordinated actions from the business sector to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect vulnerable ecosystems, and ensure a sustainable future for all generations. In this context, the UN Global Compact – Brazil Network will hold the side event “Business & Climate Ambition,” bringing together business leaders for a unique moment of global connections and discussions on the progress of the Brazilian private sector in the climate agenda.

Throughout the event, there will be discussions on the need to increase ambition so that business strategies align with scientific targets and the goal of keeping the average global temperature rise below 1.5°C. Additionally, the event will explore ways to enable climate mitigation and adaptation actions through climate finance that ensure a just transition, leaving no one behind. Actions are already underway, reaffirming the business commitment to the Global Climate Agenda.

-Promote a qualified debate on the risks and opportunities of climate change in the business sector and how to adapt to this reality.

-Present progress and challenges of corporate climate actions and foster new ideas and inspiring solutions towards a transparent, socially just, and inclusive net-zero economy.

-Launch the Climate Justice Notebooks for the Fashion & Textiles and Health sectors.

-Recognize case studies from environmental movements: +Water, Net Zero Ambition, and Circular Connection.

This event is by invitation only.  Please reach out to producao@pactoglobal.org.br if you have any questions.   

The panel will explore how the U.S. private sector can leverage sustainable finance to drive climate action and address the goals of SDG 13. The panel will highlight best practices, innovative financial instruments, and emerging trends that can help corporations align their investments with climate goals. The conversation will also feature companies highlighted in the upcoming United Nations Global Compact Network USA report on financing the SDGs, showcasing real-world examples of how U.S. companies are successfully mobilizing capital to address climate risks. The discussion will also address the importance of public-private partnerships, regulatory frameworks, and the role of financial institutions in mobilizing capital towards climate solutions.

Hosted by UN Global Compact Network USA

The discussion will focus on sustainable finance developments in the region, with a particular emphasis on the adoption of green taxonomies and aligning financial practices with sustainability goals. The event aims to foster regional collaboration on sustainable finance and promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices regarding green taxonomy. The key outcome will be a shared understanding of where Eastern European countries stand in their sustainable finance journeys and recommendations for advancing regional cooperation.

Co-hosted by UN Global Compact Networks Georgia, Ukraine, Türkiye, Azerbaijan

This session is co-hosted by the ABLC, CN South Africa and CN Nigeria. 

Join us for a dynamic roundtable discussion on the opportunities and barriers for adaptation and resillience projects on the African continent, with a special focus on innovative financing mechanisms to bring these projects into fruition. We will identify best practices / learnings as well as areas for collaboration between the private sector and other actors.

The panel will explore the critical role that setting clear, measurable targets and transparent reporting play in driving meaningful climate action within the business community. Representatives from various industries will discuss their experiences in committing to bold climate goals, the challenges they’ve faced, and the benefits of integrating rigorous reporting frameworks.

Co-hosted by UN Global Compacts Türkiye and Poland

The side event will explore pathways for a just ecological transition in the industry and transport sector, addressing short-, medium-, and long-term solutions. Business leaders will showcase successful case studies and discuss strategies to expand clean energy adoption, advance new technologies and fuels, engage the logistics chain, and secure financing. Additionally, they will delve into policy and regulatory frameworks, including Brazil’s Ecological Transformation Plan, which aims to foster sustainable development. As key players in decarbonization efforts, these leaders will highlight the importance of accelerating a just energy transition and paving the way for a low-carbon future.

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ASEAN In Action – Indonesian, Malaysian, and Bruneian Business Leadership Towards Impactful Decarbonization" highlights the pivotal role of businesses in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam in advancing ASEAN’s climate ambitions. This session will spotlight innovative strategies from leading companies, showcasing how they are overcoming unique regional challenges to drive sustainable transformation. With real-world examples, it will explore how science-based targets, clean technologies, and cross-sectoral partnerships are turning climate risks into opportunities, aligning ASEAN businesses with global climate goals while fostering sustainable economic growth in Southeast Asia

Co-hosted by UN Global Compact Networks Indonesia and Malaysia & Brunei

This panel explores the critical role of businesses in leveraging AI to address climate change while protecting and promoting human rights. Business leaders, AI experts, and human rights advocates discuss strategies for developing and deploying AI solutions that prioritize the rights and needs of vulnerable populations, ensure a just transition to a low-carbon economy, and contribute to sustainable and equitable growth. The discussion highlights the business case for responsible AI in climate action, the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, and the potential for AI to drive positive change.

Hosted by UN Global Compact Ukraine

The side event "Latin America's Just and Net Zero Journey" will showcase the actions Latin American companies are taking to achieve net zero while ensuring a just and equitable transition. As LATAM Networks, we will explore the region's engagement through Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and Brazil's Net Zero Ambition Movement commitments. Business leaders will present successful case studies, focusing on how they are embedding the principles of a just transition into their science-based decarbonization strategies, with a particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable populations. This collaboration will pave the way for a climate transformation that is not only environmentally sustainable but also socially inclusive and fair. Additionally, we will explore pathways for companies within the framework of the Race to Resilience initiative, highlighting the importance of resilience-building alongside decarbonization.

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In a rapidly evolving global landscape, transparency in climate reporting has become a critical element of corporate sustainability. Join us at this pivotal event during COP29, where industry leaders and sustainability experts will explore how the latest international climate reporting standards—such as SBTi, CDP, GRI, and EFRAG—are shaping the future of corporate climate action.

This session will highlight how these frameworks are guiding companies towards decarbonization and emission reductions, while also emphasizing the growing demand for transparent and accountable reporting. Attendees will gain practical insights into how businesses can adapt to these requirements and leverage climate transparency as a key driver of competitiveness and innovation.

Don’t miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve in navigating the next generation of climate reporting standards!

Hosted by UN Global Compact Networks Spain, Portugal, and Netherlands

This event brings together companies from different sectors and realities to explore the different resources (human, financial, logistical, technological) to advance the global energy transition. Additionally, the event will focus on actionable strategies and collaboration opportunities that help businesses align their operations with sustainability goals.

Co-Hosted by UN Global Compact Networks Portugal, Netherlands, and Türkiye

This session will bring together participants from Georgia, Türkiye, and Sweden to discuss the evolving role of renewable energy in Europe's green transition. The focus will be on sharing insights, challenges, and opportunities related to regional collaboration in advancing sustainable energy solutions. The intended outcome of this session is to foster regional dialogue on renewable energy, highlight best practices, and explore collaborative opportunities to accelerate Europe's transition to sustainable energy. Let's generate actionable recommendations for deeper cooperation among participating countries and stakeholders.

Co-hosted by UN Global Compacts Georgia and Türkiye

Scope 3 emissions represent the largest share of most organizations' carbon footprints yet are often the most difficult to manage. The discussion will focus on overcoming common obstacles, leveraging technology, and fostering partnerships to address scope 3 emissions and achieve meaningful progress in reducing emissions.

Co-Hosted by UN Global Compact Networks Portugal, Netherlands, and Türkiye

This session will engage FLAG companies and leading organisations to present their journey in developing SBTI-FLAG targets. Participants will highlight the impact on their operations, supply chains and investors relations. This session will serve as a announcement of the EDF-UNGC collaboration to mainstream SBTi-FLAG globally.

This session is hosted by Country Networks Netherlands and Portugal.  

As the world faces the urgent challenge of climate change, the energy transition and decarbonization of the economy have become paramount. The shift towards a low-carbon future requires not only technological innovations but also leaders equipped with the right skills to drive sustainable change across industries and sectors. This panel will focus on the green skills necessary for future leaders to successfully support and guide the transition to a decarbonized and regenerative economy. The session will bring together representatives from business, academia, and the UNGC Country Networks to exchange insights and foster collaboration.

Objective: The primary objective of the panel is to explore the essential leadership skills required for supporting the energy transition and decarbonization. The discussion will focus on defining “green leadership,” understanding the competencies necessary to manage sustainable operations, and outlining how business schools and organizations can foster these skills in current and future leaders. It will also highlight the critical role of collaboration between the private sector, academic institutions, and global initiatives such as the UN Global Compact.

Hosted by UN Global Compact's Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME)

Co-hosted by UN Global Compact Network Brazil, Climate Champions, and CDP

Hosted by Country Network Nepal.

Hosted by UN Global Compact Networks Nepal and India

Hosted by UN Global Compact Network Nepal.

The ocean is becoming increasingly central to global transitions in trade, infrastructure, energy, climate resilience and food security. A strong, large, and innovative Sustainable Ocean Economy will be necessary to support the transition to green economies as demand increases for decarbonized shipping, green port infrastructure, offshore renewable energy, and sustainable food systems. This small roundtable discussion will bring together industry and finance to discuss key actions to enable transitions in the ocean economy that account for nature and people in a sustainable manner.

The interlinked crises of climate change and biodiversity loss demand cohesive action and multi-stakeholder engagement, particularly from the private sector, which holds significant potential to drive large-scale environmental impact. India, with its rich biodiversity and unique vulnerabilities to climate change, serves as a compelling example of how integrated strategies can support both climate resilience and biodiversity conservation while fostering sustainable livelihoods.
In this context, the UN Global Compact Network India (UNGCNI) seeks to facilitate a panel discussion at the upcoming UNFCCC COP to address the role of the private sector in India and globally in advancing biodiversity-positive climate action. This session will bring together leading experts from policy, industry, and finance to discuss practical strategies, innovative financing mechanisms, and effective corporate responsibility approaches that align climate action with biodiversity conservation.