Nearly 200 nations negotiate climate commitments at UN conference in Baku

The 29th UN Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, saw nearly 200 nations negotiate new climate commitments. A key outcome was the agreement for developed countries to increase climate finance to at least $300 billion annually by 2035, though this is far below the estimated $1.3 trillion needed. The conference also operationalized the Loss and Damage Fund, established at COP27, which will begin disbursing resources by 2025. This fund aims to support vulnerable nations facing climate impacts, addressing historical inequities in climate finance. However, concerns remain about the fund's delayed disbursements and reliance on voluntary contributions from developed nations. Discussions highlighted governance tensions and the need for a more integrated approach to climate finance that includes adaptation strategies.