The second meeting of the COP31 High-Level Climate Champion Private Sector Consultation Series, organized through the collaboration of UN Global Compact Türkiye, the United Nations in Türkiye, and the Zero Waste Foundation, was held in Istanbul on 3 July 2026. Under the theme "Circular Economy and Innovation," the meeting brought together stakeholders to discuss solutions, policy instruments and collaborative approaches that can accelerate the private sector's transition to a circular economy.Organized in the lead-up to COP31, which will be hosted by Türkiye in Antalya from 9 to 20 November 2026, the Private Sector Consultation Series aims to strengthen private sector contributions to climate action by bringing together businesses, United Nations entities and representatives of the wider business community on a common platform. The second meeting focused on advancing circular economy approaches and exploring how innovation can contribute to achieving climate goals.The meeting opened with remarks by Tom Delrue, Head of the United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office in Türkiye, Christian Mensah, Senior Advisor and Team Lead to the COP31 High-Level Climate Champion, and Melda Çele, Secretary General of UN Global Compact Türkiye.In his remarks, Tom Delrue said:"As we move towards COP31, the global climate agenda has entered a new phase—from commitments to implementation. Partnerships that deliver tangible results and practical solutions are now more important than ever. The circular economy is one of the most powerful approaches for addressing interconnected global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution simultaneously. With its strong industrial base, growing innovation ecosystem and the Zero Waste initiative, Türkiye has significant opportunities to lead this transformation. The United Nations in Türkiye remains committed to strengthening collaboration among the public sector, the private sector and all stakeholders on the road to COP31, and to turning these partnerships into concrete climate action."In his remarks, Christian Mensah emphasized that the COP31 preparation process is not about telling stakeholders what they should do, but about making them part of the solution. Stressing that the climate crisis is no longer a challenge of the future but a reality of today, he noted that discussions must move beyond technical debates towards practical and financeable solutions. Highlighting the private sector as one of the key drivers of this transformation, Mensah underlined that climate action can only succeed through collaboration between governments, businesses and other stakeholders. He also invited participants to develop concrete recommendations that will directly contribute to the COP31 process.Melda Çele stated:"COP31, which our country will host, will not only be a diplomatic negotiation process, but also an important milestone where the business community will demonstrate its capacity for transformation, innovation and implementation. We will bring the concrete, actionable and scalable recommendations emerging from these consultations to COP31, contributing a strong private sector perspective to both the negotiations and the climate action agenda."Following the opening session, representatives from UN Global Compact Türkiye member companies, business organizations and United Nations agencies operating in Türkiye convened in thematic working groups. Participants exchanged views on practical recommendations that could contribute to Türkiye's COP31 process, covering topics including circular business models and value chain transformation, waste management and resource recovery, green technologies, innovation and digital solutions, as well as financing, policy and market mechanisms to support the transition to a circular economy.The recommendations developed during the consultations are expected to serve as the basis for thematic outcomes and voluntary commitments that will strengthen the private sector's contribution to COP31. The process also aims to enhance cooperation between the private sector and international organizations, promote the dissemination of good practices in the circular economy, and support scalable solutions.The COP31 High-Level Climate Champion Private Sector Consultation Series will continue with its third meeting in October. The next consultation will focus on nature conservation, biodiversity, water management, just transition, and sustainable value chains.

The United Nations in Türkiye, in partnership with the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Türkiye, convened leading academics and UN experts to explore how science, innovation and multi-stakeholder partnerships can accelerate climate implementation and contribute to a strong legacy for COP31.The Academia–UN Round Table on Climate Action Priorities, Partnerships and Innovation, organized as part of the UN Türkiye COP31 Engagement Strategy, brought together 15 leading academics from SDSN Türkiye member universities across the country and around 20 United Nations representatives working on climate action and sustainable development. The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between academia and the UN to help translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions that support Türkiye's climate ambitions and sustainable development objectives.Opening the event, UN Resident Coordinator in Türkiye Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi emphasized that the world is entering a new phase of climate action where implementation must take centre stage."As highlighted in our COP31 Engagement Strategy, academia is not only a source of knowledge, but a critical partner in transforming ambition into implementation," he said, noting that universities and research institutions have a vital role in generating evidence for policy, advancing innovation, strengthening green skills and supporting the partnerships needed for a just transition. His full speech is available at this link. Welcoming participants, Dr. Tamer Atabarut, Director of SDSN Türkiye, reaffirmed the network's commitment to working closely with the United Nations. Hosted by Boğaziçi University, SDSN Türkiye brings together more than 60 universities and research institutions across the country and serves as a platform for advancing evidence-based solutions for sustainable development. He stressed that the network stands ready to help bridge the gap between knowledge and implementation through closer collaboration with the UN and national partners.The Round Table featured a keynote address by Professor Jeffrey Sachs, President of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, who called for COP31 to become an implementation-oriented conference focused on concrete action rather than additional commitments.Professor Sachs argued that while Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) define countries' climate ambitions, they are not operational implementation plans. He emphasized the need for detailed 20–30-year decarbonization pathways supported by technological roadmaps, investment plans, financing strategies and regional cooperation scenarios. Rather than producing more facts and figures, he stressed that governments need practical implementation scenarios, particularly for renewable energy integration and regional zero-carbon energy systems.Participants agreed that stronger links are needed between research, policymaking, finance and implementation if climate ambitions are to translate into measurable results.A major focus of the discussions was the development of green skills and climate literacy. Participants highlighted the need to embed sustainability and climate action across education systems—from primary and secondary schools to universities, vocational education and lifelong learning programmes. Universities were encouraged to work more closely with industry to ensure curricula respond to emerging labour market needs while expanding opportunities for executive education, micro-credentials, reskilling and upskilling for the green economy.The discussions also underscored the importance of engaging young people as climate leaders through initiatives such as climate literacy campaigns, youth ambassador programmes, Model UN clubs and experiential learning. Participants emphasized that climate education should not only prepare future graduates but also support workers already in the labour market and reach disadvantaged communities through partnerships with municipalities, public education centres and the private sector.Another key theme was strengthening the interface between science, policy and finance. Participants stressed that universities can play an important role in generating evidence for policymaking, developing impact assessments and identifying the green skills and competencies required for Türkiye's transition. They also highlighted the need to adapt international definitions of green jobs and green skills to national contexts and to strengthen cooperation between academia, government and industry.Several speakers noted that successful implementation will depend not only on sound research but also on mobilizing adequate financing and convincing policymakers of the economic case for investing in climate action. Discussions highlighted opportunities presented by the emerging Climate Implementation Bridge, international financial institutions and new climate finance mechanisms to support Türkiye's green transition.The Round Table also explored how partnerships can help ensure that COP31 leaves a lasting legacy. Participants proposed strengthening collaboration among academia, government, municipalities, the private sector, financial institutions and civil society through pilot projects, living labs, innovation platforms and stronger knowledge-sharing mechanisms. Particular attention was given to scaling up successful UN-supported initiatives, improving impact assessment and expanding South-South and triangular cooperation through research and innovation.Participants also discussed opportunities to strengthen action in areas including sustainable industrialization, food systems, water management, artificial intelligence, renewable energy technologies and urban resilience. Proposals included convening a farmers' forum linked to the COP31 food systems agenda, enhancing collaboration on curriculum development, and creating stronger mechanisms to connect universities with policy processes and implementation efforts.The Round Table featured experts representing a wide range of disciplines, including climate economics, energy transition, industrial decarbonization, agriculture and food systems, urban planning, climate policy, innovation, science and technology, health and climate, and youth, skills and education. Participants included academics from Boğaziçi University, Middle East Technical University, Istanbul Technical University, Sabancı University, Marmara University, Özyeğin University, Gebze Technical University, Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University and Kadir Has University, together with Professor Jeffrey Sachs joining online from Columbia University.Concluding the discussions, participants agreed that the United Nations has an important convening role in connecting academia, policymakers, the private sector and development partners to accelerate climate implementation. Recommendations from the Round Table will inform the ongoing implementation of the UN Türkiye COP31 Engagement Strategy, contribute to future thematic dialogues with key stakeholders, and support preparations for COP31 through follow-up workstreams, collaborative initiatives and potential side events. 

"The road to COP31 offers us a unique opportunity to shape a more resilient, sustainable and just future," United Nations Resident Coordinator in Türkiye Dr. Babatunde A. Ahonsi told students and academics at Istanbul Technical University. Calling universities key partners in advancing climate action, he urged stronger collaboration between the United Nations, academia and young people to "turn knowledge into action, ambition into implementation, and hope into lasting change—for everyone, everywhere, leaving no one behind."As Türkiye prepares to host the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), students, academics and United Nations (UN) representatives gathered at Istanbul Technical University (ITU) to discuss how youth, science and partnerships can help accelerate climate action.The event, "Towards COP31: Climate Talks on Climate Agenda, Sustainability, Resilience and Green Growth," was organized by ITU's Environment and Urbanism Application and Research Center (UYGAR), Climate Ambassadors, Urban and Urbanization Club and ITU CORAL (Collective Resilience Alliance). It brought together representatives from the UN, academia and students to exchange ideas on sustainability, resilience, green growth and the role of young people in shaping climate solutions.Moderated by Prof. Dr. Aliye Ahu Gülümser, Director of ITU's UYGAR, the event featured opening remarks by ITU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal, who highlighted the significance of Türkiye hosting COP31 as an important opportunity to strengthen climate ambition and international cooperation. He noted that today's climate challenges extend beyond the environment, encompassing economic, social, geopolitical and technological dimensions that require collaborative, multi-stakeholder solutions. Stressing the importance of co-creation, he pointed to ITU CORAL as an example of students taking the lead in building resilience and preparing the next generation of climate leaders. During the interactive discussion, participants also learned that ITU CORAL will organize a Model COP31 in September, providing students with an opportunity to simulate international climate negotiations and strengthen youth engagement in the lead-up to COP31.Delivering the keynote address, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Türkiye Dr. Babatunde A. Ahonsi emphasized that climate change cannot be addressed in isolation."Today we are living through two interconnected crises — the climate crisis and the energy crisis. Addressing them requires integrated action across multiple sectors, supported by innovation, clean energy and renewable technologies."Highlighting the role of young people in driving change, he called on students to become active participants in shaping a sustainable future."Climate action cannot succeed without the meaningful participation of young people. You are not simply beneficiaries of climate policies—you are the innovators, advocates and change agents who will help transform our societies."Dr. Ahonsi also underscored that delivering meaningful climate action requires a whole-of-society approach, bringing together governments, academia, the private sector, civil society and communities."The transition towards a resilient and low-carbon future depends on partnerships. Transformation will only happen if we work together, learn from one another and turn knowledge into action."A youth perspective was presented by Climate Ambassador Ayşenaz Almeman, who highlighted the importance of youth participation and climate justice, drawing on findings from a recent climate survey conducted by UNICEF and the COP31 Presidency.The panel, moderated by Tom Delrue, Head of the Resident Coordinator's Office in Türkiye, brought together Telman Maharramov of UN-Habitat's Regional Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia; Dima Khoury, Coordinator at the Secretariat of the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction at UNEP; Ersan Olcay Işın, Industrial Decarbonization Expert at UNIDO Türkiye; Ayşegül Selışık, Deputy Representative of FAO Türkiye; and Özlem Çalışkan, Programme Manager of UNFPA's Women Friendly Cities Programme in Türkiye. Together, they explored climate action through multiple lenses, including sustainable urbanization, environmental sustainability, green industrial transformation, sustainable food systems and inclusive, people-centred climate policies.Discussions covered sustainable and resilient cities, the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, green industrial transformation, sustainable food systems, climate-resilient agriculture, and the importance of inclusive climate policies that leave no one behind. Panelists also highlighted the need to equip young people with green skills and ensure that women, youth and vulnerable groups are actively involved in climate decision-making.Throughout the discussion, speakers agreed that universities have a unique role to play as hubs of research, innovation and collaboration. By moving beyond traditional teaching to pilot practical climate solutions and strengthen partnerships, higher education institutions can help accelerate implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement while supporting preparations for COP31.The event concluded with an interactive discussion between students and UN experts, reaffirming the importance of youth engagement as Türkiye prepares to welcome the global climate community later this year. The dialogue formed part of broader efforts by the United Nations in Türkiye and its partners to foster inclusive conversations on climate action and ensure that the voices of young people and academia contribute to the road to COP31. 

As a deadly heatwave continued to grip Europe on Tuesday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued an impassioned appeal for more ambitious global action on climate change caused by fossil fuels, to prevent irreversible damage.In a major keynote speech at London Climate Action Week, the UN chief highlighted how the world’s dependence on oil is driving both the climate crisis and an energy sovereignty crunch, the latter linked to massive shipping disruption in the Strait of Hormuz and the war involving Iran, Israel and the United States.“These crises may seem separate but they share the same destructive origin: fossil fuels. And they demand the same answer: a fast, fair transition to clean energy and a surge in adaptation, resilience and climate justice for those already facing climate harm,” Mr. Guterres said, in a call for political leadership to push through global change akin to that required to phase out leaded gasoline and to ban chemicals that created a hole in the ozone layer.In brief: the UN plan for energy independence Cut emissions fast: emissions must peak now and reach net zero by 2050, including through a global push to curb methane pollution.Accelerate clean energy: renewables pick-up needs to continue, subsidies must end for fossil fuel projects and fossil fuel profits taxed to support vulnerable communities and the energy transition.Clean up AI: require major AI companies to disclose the environmental impact of their data centres and power them with renewable energy by 2030.Ensure a just transition: ensure the shift to clean energy creates jobs, supports communities and delivers development benefits for developing countries.Boost climate resilience: increase investment in adaptation, early warning systems and other measures to protect people most vulnerable to climate impacts.Unlock fair finance: expand affordable funding for developing countries to invest in clean energy, climate adaptation and sustainable development.Defend science and truth: strengthen trust in science, combat climate disinformation and protect environmental journalists and human rights defenders.Earth’s tipping pointsIt is more than a decade since world leaders agreed in Paris to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, a remarkable show of international unity, led by the UN. Today, although that Agreement stands – and despite the US officially withdrawing for a second time in January this year – UN-backed scientists warn that average annual temperatures are likely to exceed that threshold in coming years.“Every fraction of a degree matters,” the Secretary-General insisted, as he forewarned of the irreversible damage to coral reefs unable to survive in too-warm waters, the melting ice sheets that threaten to reshape coastlines and displace millions, and the real possibility that some small island nations could disappear under the waves.Faced with this existential scenario, “the task before us is to strictly limit the overshoot, shorten its duration and bring temperatures down below 1.5°C as fast as possible”, Mr. Guterres maintained.‘Mother of all energy shocks’And while he pointed out that “any peace agreement is welcome and would bring much needed relief”, in reference to a 60-day pause in hostilities to allow ongoing Iranian-US talks in Switzerland, the UN chief noted that the Middle East crisis had unleashed “the mother of all energy shocks” comparable to the oil disruption of the 1970s and the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.As damaging as the Middle East war has been for highly industrialized nations, the UN Secretary-General insisted that developing countries have been hit even harder:“It is a debt shock, a food shock, a development shock”, he told the London audience.A just future from renewables“The good news is – unlike every past energy crisis – we now have a clear way out, a clean way out,” the Secretary-General continued.He noted that since 2010, the cost of solar energy has plummeted by almost 90 per cent, onshore wind by more than 70 per cent, and battery storage by 95 per cent.Renewables avoided more than the annual carbon dioxide emissions of the US, the EU and Japan combined, Mr. Guterres said, adding that clean energy investment now attracts almost twice as much as fossil fuels.“There are no embargoes on sunlight and no blockades on the wind,” he said.A seven-point plan for energy independenceAs part of the Secretary-General’s blueprint for a clean break with fossil fuels, he outlined seven key steps:1: Emissions must peak immediately and fall steeply this decade, reaching net zero by 2050. The G20 group of wealthy nations “must lead” on this, as it is responsible for around 80 per cent of global emissions, Mr. Guterres said. Ambitious measures include a global Call to Action on Methane to reduce emissions of the gas traps around 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide, but which breaks down in the atmosphere within just a decade or two.“The world phased out leaded gasoline. We eliminated ozone-depleting chemicals. Methane pollution must be next,” the UN chief stressed.2: Clean energy projects should be promoted and public subsidies ditched for new fossil fuel projects. “The eight largest fossil fuel companies reported pocketing an extra $6.5 billion in the first quarter of this year alone…I urge governments to tax them" to help vulnerable families and communities and accelerate the shift to clean, affordable energy, Mr. Guterres said.3: Every major AI company should “measure and publicly disclose the full environmental impact” of data centres: their carbon, water and land footprints – and commit to power every data centre with renewable energy by 2030. Today, AI data centres already consume more electricity than most nations; “it’s time to come clean”, the UN chief noted.By 2030, AI data centres could use enough water to meet the basic needs of all 1.3 billion residents of sub‑Saharan Africa for an entire year, the UN chief said.4: “No more extraction without development:” Mr. Guterres called for greater support for the move to clean energy in a way that benefits workers and communities everywhere and developing countries too, driven forward by the UN Climate Conference – COP31 – in Türkiye. “The transition itself is no longer in question,” he stressed, adding: “It will be either managed or chaotic, fair or unequal, a source of stability or of greater division; and these choices are still ours to make.”5: Protect those most at risk from climate chaos by helping them adapt, because this “saves lives, safeguards homes and communities, helps economies absorb shocks and holds societies together”, the Secretary-General insisted. Contingency systems need to be put in place before shocks become humanitarian and economic catastrophes, Mr. Guterres added. At the same time, developed countries must deliver on their “long-standing commitment to double adaptation finance, with a clear trajectory toward tripling it”, he said.6: Support fair finance to support phasing out fossil fuels and the green transition at scale and at speed: because many developing countries face borrowing costs that are two to three times higher than in wealthier economies.“Countries rich in renewable potential are being locked out of the clean energy revolution,” the UN chief maintained, pointing to African countries which receive only two per cent of global clean energy investment even though they possess 60 per cent of the world’s best solar resources.Mr. Guterres highlighted the $600-800 billion in additional lending capacity of multilateral development banks, such as the World Bank. This should be used “aggressively” to finance the infrastructure of the future and climate adaptation, along with other investment measures such as taxing high-emitting sectors, he maintained.Equally, “developed countries must keep their promises", including support to the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage and the Green Climate Fund, the Secretary-General continued, noting that the $300 billion pledged to developing countries must be delivered along with concrete steps to mobilize $1.3 trillion a year by 2035.7: Finally, the UN Secretary-General urged support for science as the bedrock of truth and early warning systems - and to tackle climate falsehoods, since "disinformation is spreading deliberately to delay climate action, entrench vested interests, and erode trust”.Human rights defenders and journalists reporting on the climate and the environment should be protected and trust in evidence and institutions bolstered, Mr. Guterres insisted, pointing to the Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change, led by the UN, UNESCO and Brazil in support of this goal.