Fairtrade Foundation greets UK PM’s COP29 support for tackling climate change
The UK's new Prime Minister, Labour's Sir Keir Starmer
Fairtrade Foundation has welcomed UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s appearance at the global COP29 event held in Baku, Azerbaijan, in which he outlined key environmental commitments from the government, writes Neill Barston.
The PM reaffirmed the nation’s position on tackling the climate crisis, which is continuing to impact on economies around the world, especially within agricultural supply chains, including the cocoa sector, which has faced sustained adverse weather conditions attributed to global warming.
Notably, the event has seen controversy this week, amid reports that Argentina has withdrawn from the negotiations after it was stated that communications had been made with the US’s next president-elect, with his incoming administration thought to be considering withdrawing from the international Paris climate deal that has targeted minimising temperature rises around the world caused by industrial activity.
For his part, Keir Starmer spoke at COP 29, and in a press conference, he said: “The United Kingdom is determined to stand alongside those countries on the frontline of the climate crisis today. And to seize the opportunities of tomorrow. Because action on climate now is the route towards economic growth, energy security, better jobs and national security in the long term. To deliver on the Paris Agreement, and keep 1.5 degrees within reach.
“Today I can confirm – three months ahead of deadline. The UK’s 2035 international target. Our nationally determined contribution – to reduce all greenhouse gas emissions by at least 81% on 1990 levels….Aligned with 1.5 degrees, And we urge all Parties – To come forward with ambitious targets of their own.”
In response, Fairtrade believed that it was vital that solutions to climate change be brought forward around the world, especially in light of major challenges being faced by farmers across multiple sectors.
Alexander Carnwath, Fairtrade Foundation’s Head of Public Affairs, said: “We welcome the UK Government’s announcement at COP29 that they are renewing the UK’s climate leadership. We would urge them to consider the role that the UK’s approach to global trade can have on achieving climate justice for farmers and workers overseas. The Government’s development of a trade strategy is an ideal opportunity to ensure UK trade policies support producers in tackling climate change, adapting and building resilient futures.
“The ability of farmers and workers to achieve higher prices for their produce is both a key enabler and a precondition for ensuring effective climate action. It is important the UK Government listens to producers, and addresses the links between trade and climate justice, to ensure that global supply chains are resilient, environmentally sustainable, and fair.”
