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Changing Minds, not the Climate

UNESCO’s actions on climate change mitigation and adaptation, in the context of the Paris Climate Conference 2015 (COP21).

Climate change is a complex issue which has consequences for all spheres of existence on our planet. It either impacts on – or is impacted by – global issues, including poverty, economic development, population growth, sustainable development and resource manag ement. It is not surprising, then, that solutions come from all disciplines and fields of research and development. UNESCO, through its multidisciplinary mandate in education, natural and social sciences, culture and communications, is in a unique position to address climate change holistically.

Given the potential impact of climate change, it poses a direct threat to societies and the ecosystems that sustain them. Actions to mitigate and adapt to climate change are urgently needed to ensure sustainable development.

The Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is a space for international negotiations, for Member States to agree on common measures and legal instruments to address climate change. Its 21st session (COP21) will be held in Paris, France, from 30 November to 11 December 2015. UNESCO and its Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission participate in the COP as observers, providing assistance when appropriate towards a successful conference outcome.

Throughout 2015, UNESCO and IOC-UNESCO will be working in close collaboration with the French authorities, as the host of COP21, to prepare a series of pre-COP21 events through which they aim to put their expertise at the service of Member States, to help them identify promising recommendations and make informed decisions.  

UNESCO is also working in close synergy with the overall UN system, including the UNFCCC Secretariat, in support of the UNFCCC and COP21.