COP31

FAQ

• Why does Équiterre participate in COPs?

  The COP is a valuable forum for influencing Canada and other countries, since decisions made there will shape the climate action taken by governments. Ambitious decisions have the potential to raise ambition levels, both nationally and locally. 
  
  Furthermore, having representatives from civil society present is crucial when it comes to influencing international discussions on climate change. Many groups have fought for a voice in these climate talks, such as youth groups, environmental organizations, trade unions, research groups, Indigenous organizations, businesses, farmers and local governments. As an environmental organization, Équiterre can and must use its voice to call for ambitious action. The oil and gas lobby, for its part, doesn’t hesitate to use its access to COPs to put the brakes on climate action. 

• Why is Équiterre interested in climate disinformation?

  Climate disinformation is considered one of the greatest threats to democracy and the global economy. It is now one of the 30 leading priorities of the UNFCCC’s climate agenda. In addition to impeding actions to combat climate change, misinformation and disinformation polarize the debate and divide societies worldwide. They also impede the adoption of an ambitious climate agenda, putting us all in jeopardy. The urgency of the climate crisis requires that we focus on this issue in order to come up with collective solutions.

• Why are COPs useful?

  Climate COPs alone cannot "save the world," but they have nonetheless led to important progress.
  
  Without them, the world would be in a much worse predicament than it currently is. The gains made at COPs are enshrined in international law and are difficult to reverse. Admittedly, this makes for a slow process, but one with a solid foundation and real impact.
  
  What’s more, COPs help focus media and political attention on the climate crisis for at least two weeks every year.
  
  A COP is the only meeting where countries with little influence on the world stage can have a voice that carries as much weight as that of the bigger players. It's a unique opportunity to tell the story of the many challenges faced by the most vulnerable communities, whether it involves funding efforts to reduce GHG emissions, adapting to the various impacts of climate change (drought, floods, submergence, extreme heatwaves, etc.) or suffering irreversible damage (fatalities, cultural losses, forced migration, etc.). 
  
  Équiterre is using its on-site presence to support these communities, amplify their voices and ensure that countries like Canada contribute their fair share to global climate action. Canada’s actions must reflect its historical responsibilities and financial capacities. 

• The Équiterre team has to fly to get to the COPs; isn't that a problem?

  Équiterre is aware of the environmental impact of air travel. Our organization therefore always sends a minimal delegation, in order to limit this impact at the source. We also always offset the GHG emissions associated with this travel, even though this is by no means a panacea.
  
  This type of travel, which is exceptional, is well worth the effort in Équiterre's view, especially given the importance of human relations in advancing climate action and negotiations. It's the excessive use of air travel, such as the frequent use of private jets or multiple flights for pleasure over short periods of time, that should be denounced.