Baku, Azerbaijan – Day two of the COP29 climate summit saw over 75 global leaders convening by the Caspian Sea, yet the absence of high-profile leaders from major polluting economies has cast a shadow over discussions. With notable leaders like U.S. President Joe Biden, China’s Xi Jinping, India’s Narendra Modi, and France’s Emmanuel Macron opting out, the question of international climate solidarity looms larger than ever, especially in light of shifting U.S. climate policies following Donald Trump’s recent election victory.

Uncertainty over U.S. Climate Policy Sparks Debate

The United States’ future climate policy is already a topic of heated speculation, as Trump’s win raises questions about America’s commitment to global climate action. His victory has introduced new levels of uncertainty for COP29, and many leaders are eager to understand whether past pledges will be honored. Without a definitive stance from Biden, the sense of urgency among attending nations has intensified.

“The world’s largest economies need to be here, setting the tone for global collaboration,” said UN climate chief Simon Stiell. In a powerful opening speech, Stiell urged countries to “demonstrate that global cooperation is still achievable.”

Agenda Tensions and Calls for Climate Justice

Monday’s proceedings faced early setbacks due to disputes over the summit’s official agenda, underscoring the growing tension among nations around the priorities for climate action. The delay sparked a rare, unplanned opportunity for the leaders of smaller, climate-vulnerable nations to make their voices heard.

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih called for greater accountability from wealthier nations, particularly those with the highest emissions. “Those most responsible for emissions need to be the ones leading the way. Small nations can’t shoulder this alone,” he emphasized.

New Carbon Market Standards: A Step Toward Accountability

Despite the rocky start, COP29 marked a significant milestone with the approval of updated UN standards for a global carbon market. This decision, years in the making, opens the door for countries to trade carbon credits, potentially accelerating global emissions reductions by allowing nations to offset emissions by purchasing credits from more sustainable economies.

Mary Robinson, Chair of the Elders, praised this achievement, noting that while it doesn’t replace individual commitments, the standardized framework “provides an actionable pathway toward balancing emissions on a global scale.”

Climate Change in Action: Real-Time Data Highlights Urgent Need

As COP29 discussions unfolded, the UN released a report revealing that 2023 was the hottest year on record. The report, shared with attendees, further fueled discussions about the immediate need for climate action. Experts say that even with carbon markets in place, emissions reductions need to accelerate to avoid tipping points for irreversible damage.

A Historic Summit in Baku – But is it Enough?

Amid COP29's challenges, the collective resolve of leaders remains strong, with nations working to bridge gaps and agree on actionable climate goals. In the words of UN Chief Simon Stiell, “This is a moment of reckoning for global cooperation. We’re here in Baku to show that even amid political and economic headwinds, our commitment to the planet remains unshaken.”

As the summit progresses, all eyes are on Baku to see if the absences of powerful nations will be a setback or a galvanizing moment for smaller, climate-committed countries determined to forge a sustainable future.