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Durham University's Observer Status

Durham University is home to world-leading interdisciplinary research. Our legal scholars, academics, and scientists are involved in addressing the complex legal, social, and scientific issues in relation to climate change, sustainability, and biodiversity. We are committed to sharing our knowledge and experience globally.

We were admitted by the Conference of the Parties as an observer NGO to the UNFCCC in 2021 at COP26. As an observer NGO, Durham University is also a member of RINGO and YOUNGO, the official UNFCCC NGOs Constituencies. The observer status allows making an impact by hosting official UNFCCC side events, making official submissions and statements, holding exhibitions, and engaging and reflecting on the negotiations. Taking our status seriously, we adhere to the UNFCCC policies and code of conduct.

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Seven head shots of the COP30 delegates

Our Participation at COP30

This year, we are sending seven delegates to the 30th Conference of the Parties in Belém, Brazil, who will be at the forefront of discussions shaping the future of climate action and sustainability.

Meet our COP30 Delegates

Our official UNFCCC side event at COP30

Implementing evidence-based NDCs 3.0 through integrated, gender-responsive Just Transitions

Panel discussion based on the first GST evidence uptake in NDCs 3.0 and exploring pathways for their implementation, considering the best available science through integrated and holistic approaches that prioritise gender responsiveness and just transition plans.
Find out more about our COP30 Side Event
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Watch our UNFCCC Official Side Events

  • COP28 Side Event

    Finance flows, trade, and closing the ambition gap post-GST: investor engagement with Governments

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  • COP29 Side Event

    Just Transition – a Fairness Discourse for Enhancing Adaptation and Improving Social Resilience

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COP28 Side Event

Finance flows, trade, and closing the ambition gap post-GST: investor engagement with Governments

COP28 Logo

COP29 Side Event

Just Transition – a Fairness Discourse for Enhancing Adaptation and Improving Social Resilience

Green Background Logo for UNFCCC Conference COP29

Expert Opinion

Become a world-changer

We continue to see a range of global challenges brought about by issues that we need to tackle together. Climate change, energy use, sustainable living and disease are just some of the many world-changing areas that we need to focus on now to help make a positive long-term difference. We offer a wide range of programmes, covering many subject areas which help our students become global leaders of change.
View our sustainability-focused programmes
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Research Impact

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We're a world leader in sustainability

We’re always developing new ways of thinking to shape a better future for people and our planet, and we’ve been recognised as one of the top universities in the world for taking action to address the most pressing Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) challenges facing society today.

Find out more about our sustainability ranking

Research Centres