Reflections from a meeting of climate ministers with a Danish tragedy as backdrop

This piece was written by Anna Aaen, Deputy Mayor, City of Aalborg, Denmark, following the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial hosted by the city of Elsinore on 21-22 March 2024.

It is a wonderful feeling to leave a meeting filled with energy and motivation. And it is even better when the meeting’s agenda is both significant and challenging – namely, global climate action at the local level.

In the years following COP27 in 2022, Denmark has hosted an informal climate ministerial meeting in March. The purpose of this meeting is to maintain momentum for climate action.
This year, approximately 40 climate leaders from around the world gathered in Elsinore.
I had the honor of representing the Local Governments and Municipal Authorities (LGMA) Constituency. What unites us all is our commitment to pushing for climate action and an ambitious outcome at the upcoming COP29 meeting, which will be held in November in Baku, Azerbaijan.

“To be, or not to be. That is the question”

Kronborg Castle in Elsinore was the setting for Shakespeare’s famous play about the Danish prince Hamlet. The tragedy, over 400 years old, remains relevant today. Especially the iconic words: “To be, or not to be. That is the question.”

We can still empathize with Hamlet’s doubt and guilt about whether we are acting correctly and in time – particularly regarding the climate. We all share the responsibility to save our shared planet, especially those of us in the western world. It is no longer a question of “to do or not to do”. It is rather a question of “how to do”.

We still have choices and opportunities

At the minister meeting in Elsinore, I was really convinced that by standing together, we have the strength to make a difference and create a more sustainable planet for all of us. I am not saying it is easy or simple – far from. But we must make the choice and seize the opportunity. That is, before it is too late. No one doubts the urgency of implementing actions that will enable us to achieve the Paris Agreement goals and limit the global temperature rise.

Global effort – local difference

One topic we discussed at the meeting in Elsinore was how we can locally achieve a new global goal for climate financing. This goal considers the needs and priorities of developing countries. Its purpose is to strengthen the global action on climate change, promote sustainable development, and eradicate poverty.

It is no secret that a country like Uzbekistan in Central Asia faces different and greater challenges than tiny Denmark. Also, when it comes to climate issues. There are no one-size-fits-all solutions.

In Denmark, we have abundant resources. We produce green energy and attract investors. Roughly speaking, our biggest problem is that the population finds wind turbines and solar panels unsightly and does not want them in their backyard. It sounds almost tragicomic.

In contrast, much poorer Uzbekistan relies on coal for income. When their energy shifts from black to green, a significant part of their livelihood disappears. Additionally, they struggle to attract foreign investors. They are currently in a difficult situation, looking toward an uncertain future. A future that depends on assistance from the international community, including climate financing.

We evolve together

In Aalborg, my hometown, we have a longstanding tradition of close collaboration between the municipality, businesses, and educational institutions. Our university excels in engineering education, and many companies develop and export green solutions. We evolve together, benefiting not only our local area but also contributing to the global transition. This impact extends even to less affluent regions, provided they receive financial support from wealthier countries.

Improved collaboration and partnerships are crucial

At the Elsinore meeting, it became evident that cooperation is the way forward. Creating partnerships between governments at all levels and across borders is particularly important. This extends to international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector. By working together, we can leverage our collective resources and expertise to implement effective climate solutions and achieve meaningful progress – both in wealthier and less affluent countries.

The vital role of cities in climate action

Our discussions at Elsinore, under the shadow of Hamlet’s existential question, reaffirmed that the choices we make today will determine our collective future.

We must move beyond doubt and hesitation. Instead, we should embrace the opportunities before us, working together across borders and sectors. By fostering partnerships between local governments, businesses, educational institutions, and international organizations, we can create a resilient and sustainable future.

As we approach COP29 in Azerbaijan, the demand for climate action and an ambitious outcome is louder than ever. The local prelude to this is hosting a major European conference on sustainable cities and communities in October – “10th European Conference on Sustainable Cities & Towns.” This event underscores the importance of involving local authorities. After all, it is at the local level that the implementation of green initiatives must take place. Cities play a vital role in defining frameworks and setting the stage for positive change.

The urgency of our mission cannot be overstated. We must recognize that while national and international policies set the direction, it is the local actions that drive real change. Cities are the frontline in the battle against climate change. They are where innovative solutions are tested and implemented, where citizens engage directly with sustainability initiatives, and where the impact of climate action is most immediately felt.