The global summit, running from 9 to 20 November, is attended by national leaders, policy makers, academics and activists from around the world.
This year’s conference aims to accelerate progress on tackling climate change by helping turn commitments into meaningful real-world action.
Conference sessions
A delegation of Edinburgh experts, including academics and students, is representing the University at the conference. They will contribute to policy discussions, develop partnerships and identify opportunities for further research, collaboration and funding.
Among the sessions involving University experts is a roundtable discussion on climate disinformation and AI, which will include Professor Margaret Graham, Director of the Edinburgh Earth Initiative (EEI).
Professor Liz Grant, Director of the Global Health Academy, will also take part in a roundtable hosted by Koç University Suna & İnan Kıraç Research Centre for Mediterranean Civilizations (AKMED).
Elsewhere, Professor Neil Robertson, Chair of Molecular Materials and Dean International Partnerships, will be a panellist on an event about higher education and public trust.
Dr Lucy Wishart, Lecturer in Circular Economy and Sustainable Transformations, will also participate in several sessions related to circular economy and sustainability.
Campus events
As part of a programme of on-campus events, the University is running a free online course, Live at COP31, alongside the conference.
The course examines what COP31 is and its importance, and reflects on how people can take action towards a sustainable future. It features a contribution from Gillian Martin, the Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Rural Affairs.
The University is also hosting its annual COP café event in the Business School on Wednesday 18 November.
Through a series of talks, a panel discussion and breakout groups, the event will explore key themes and consider how people can contribute to a more sustainable, climate-resilient future for Edinburgh.
Edinburgh publication
Academics have contributed to a publication capturing how Edinburgh is using its research, innovation and thought-leadership to address issues being discussed at COP31.
It includes essays by Edinburgh academics grounded in their current research on key areas, with a particular focus on the circular economy.
Read the Advancing Action publication
Sustainability strategy
Earlier this year, the University launched its sector-leading regenerative sustainability strategy.
The strategy outlines an achievable, science-based approach to go beyond minimising harm and proactively restore natural systems for the benefit of both nature and people.
The Edinburgh Earth Initiative is supporting delivery of the research and innovation part of the strategy and the University's wider strategic mission to tackle the climate and environmental crisis.
Related links
Regenerative sustainability strategy
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