Reflections on the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference

January 16, 2024

Insights from Nfamara K. Dampha, PhD, a University of Minnesota researcher and advocate for the world's most vulnerable countries 

By Elena Mathern, BS ‘25, Environmental Sciences, Policy, & Management

headshot of Dr. Dampha
Nfamara K. Dampha, PhD

In November 2024, Nfamara K. Dampha, PhD, a climate scientist and researcher in Applied Economics at the University of Minnesota, attended COP29, the 29th United Nations Climate Change conference, in Baku, Azerbaijan. As a Lead Scientist and Director for the Center of The Earth-Economy Modelers (TEEMs) at the Natural Capital Project, Dampha also serves as a Lead Climate Negotiator for The Gambia and the 45 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) group. He shared his perspectives on the conference's outcomes and global climate policy and how these insights influence his work at the University of Minnesota.

A global perspective on climate negotiations

Dampha’s role at COP 29 highlights the critical intersection of research and policy. Representing the LDC group, he advocated for equitable climate action, emphasizing the scientific basis for climate justice and the urgent need for financial support for adaptation, mitigation, and loss and damage. “COP29 failed to deliver reliable, predictable, and grant-based climate finance,” he noted, that the conference’s outcomes were disappointing for the world’s most vulnerable nations. Despite this, he remains steadfast in his efforts to amplify the voices of LDCs.

The Baku agreement established a $300 billion annual climate finance goal by 2035, but this falls short of the $1.3 trillion requested by developing countries to implement their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), and Long-term Climate-neutral Strategies (LTS). Dampha pointed out the heavy reliance on loans, which he argues could exacerbate economic instability in countries grappling with climate impacts. “This is not equity, social justice, or the ambitious climate action the world desperately needs,” he stated.

Key decisions and challenges

One pivotal agreement at COP29 involved Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which establishes a framework for international carbon markets. The deal could save $250 billion annually in implementing national climate plans. However, Dampha cautioned against the risks of “carbon market colonialism,” where profit-driven private sector programs might undermine environmental and social justice. He emphasized the need for robust governance mechanisms to ensure these markets serve their intended purpose without causing harm.

Bridging research and policy

Dr. Dampha speaking at COP29
Dampha speaking at COP29

Dampha’s research at the University of Minnesota is deeply influenced by his experiences at COP conferences. As a member of the UNFCCC’s expert group on the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), his work focuses on developing indicators to measure resilience and adaptation progress. This aligns with the GGA’s targets, which include enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem services. “Protecting nature and its services is crucial, especially for LDCs where livelihoods depend on vulnerable natural resource sectors,” he explained.

Dampha also highlighted the importance of academic institutions in advancing climate action. He called on the University of Minnesota to partner with universities in developing countries to promote knowledge exchange and capacity building. Such collaborations, he argued, can bridge gaps in climate science and policy implementation.

Advice for future climate leaders

For students and scholars aspiring to engage in global climate governance, Dampha underscored the importance of active involvement. “These meetings are critical for survival reasons,” he said. He encouraged students to explore UNFCCC resources, publish their research, and support their governments in addressing climate challenges. “The science of climate change informs policy, governance, and diplomacy,” he added.

Moving forward

While COP29 fell short in addressing key financial and equity issues, it underscored the urgent need for collective global action. Dampha’s insights reflect both the challenges and opportunities in navigating the complex landscape of international climate negotiations. For the University of Minnesota community, his experiences serve as a reminder of the critical role that research, education, and advocacy play in building a sustainable and resilient future.

Read the full interview with Nfamara K. Dampha, PhD