Just as every year is reported to be warmer than the previous one, every CoP too is getting bigger.
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell has admitted the carbon footprint of the conference is unsustainable. “There are reports of private planes and the CO2 footprint for hosting CoP. We need the right people around the table to make this work… ensure that the ones present are the ones necessary,” he said.
Stein may not follow up on his observation as one reason why host countries want the CoP is the boost it gives to local businesses. Bhushan found hotels to be costing as much as $800 a night with the city witnessing unprecedented footfall.
The infusion into the national and city’s economy should have a lasting impact, considering Baku, once known as the Black City due to its oil pollution and grime, is now a city with pleasing views and waterfronts, charming hotels and cafes. Thanks to the CoP, the visitors will carry the new image to their home countries, and many more people will return to experience Azerbaijan.
For a city that has in the past hosted relatively modest events like the Eurovision Song Contest and the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the Conference of Parties could put Baku in a different league.
What it does for climate change is another matter.
(Anupam Srivastava is a development communication professional, commentator and the author of The Brown Sahebs)
