7 experts to cut through the noise at COP28
Dear Reader,
All eyes are on Dubai as the city prepares to host the latest round of global climate negotiations at COP28. With over 80,000 attendees due to travel to the event, there won’t be a shortage of opinions and hot takes. But who should you follow to understand what’s actually happening on the key issues?
We bring you a curated collection of six influential voices that will provide diverse insights into the discussions, challenges, and breakthroughs at COP28. Follow these voices closely to keep your finger on the pulse of global climate efforts and get a nuanced understanding of the pivotal decisions shaping our shared future.
Happy reading
From,
The Livism Team
All of these voices are available for media requests and can be contacted via [email protected]
Célia Xakriabà
Célia Xakriabá is a teacher and Indigenous activist of the Xakriabá people in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. In 2022 she became the first Indigenous woman to be elected federal deputy for Minas Gerais. She has a Master’s degree in sustainable development from the University of Brasilia, and is part of the Articulation Rosalino Gomes, present in the North of Minas Gerais, being one of the founders of the National Articulation of Indigenous Women Warriors of Ancestrality.
Brian Maina
Brian Maina is the founder of an Eco-friendly social enterprise combating plastic pollution by introducing bio-degradable and compostable tableware as an alternative to plastics. He is a coordinator for partnerships and resource mobilisation at the Africa Youth Climate Assembly. He is also an Interior architect/designer, an avid adventurer, an environmentalist, an aesthete, a Climate Reality Leadership Corps Fellow, a Kenyan African youth leader, advocate and activist for better policies in Africa and moving Africa towards a sustainable future.
Instagram: @an_africans_perspective
X: @kdotbrian
Abigael Kima
Abigael Kima is a 25 year-old Kenyan climate activist at the forefront of championing African climate issues. As the dynamic producer and host of the Hali-Hewa podcast, she skillfully amplifies the voices of communities affected by climate change across Africa. With a keen focus on authenticity, Kima crafts a narrative that transcends borders, highlighting the human stories behind the statistics. Beyond the podcast, she tirelessly advocates for a just energy transition, addressing loss and damage, promoting youth participation, and upholding indigenous rights. Through her unwavering commitment, she envisions a future where climate justice for Africa is not just a goal but a tangible reality
LinkedIn: Abigael Kima
X: @AbigaelKima
Bogolo Kenewendo
Hailing from Botswana, Bogolo has established herself as a pioneering figure in international trade and development, particularly advocating for Pan-African growth and the acceleration of digitisation across the continent. As the former Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry in Botswana, Kenewendo implemented transformative reforms to position the country favourably in global value chains and the digital economy. She has become a key voice on climate finance, emphasising the crucial need for solutions tailored to address Africa’s unique climate challenges. In her current role as the first African director and Special Advisor for the UN Climate Change High-Level Champions, she continues to champion climate finance initiatives for the continent.
LinkedIn: Bogolo Joy Kenewendo
Alex Scott
Alex Scott, a seasoned climate diplomacy expert, leads E3G teams in mapping the geopolitical landscape and orchestrating diplomatic strategies across sectors and government-NGO networks. With a decade of experience in climate and environmental policy at local and national levels, she notably spearheaded the UK government’s Brexit planning on international and EU climate policy. Beyond government roles, Alex contributed to sustainable development law with the Climate Law and Governance Initiative, and launched fossil fuel divestment campaigns in Western Australia.
LinkedIn: Alexandra Scott
Olumide Idowu
Olumide Idowu is a co-founder of the International Climate Change Development Initiative, a non-governmental organisation that aims to produce climate-smart generations throughout Africa while also tackling development disparities. He serves as the UNDP Small Grants Program’s Youth Focal Point in Nigeria, is the Youth Lead Author of the Global Environmental Outlook , and is the Executive Coordinator of the African Youth Initiative on Climate Change.
LinkedIn: Olumide Idowu (Mr. Climate)
Sonia Dunlop
For almost 15 years, Sonia has worked at the nexus of climate change, politics, solar and finance. She has worked on the inside and the outside of the policy-making process, in London, Brussels and at the global level for the COP26 Presidency, and recently took up a new role as CEO of the Global Solar Council.
LinkedIn: Sonia Dunlop
In case you missed it
A BBC story revealed how millions of people are being put at risk of serious illness because of toxic pollution from oil giants, including COP28 President’s company ADNOC – you can watch the film here.
In the realm of climate, women now hold the reins, ensuring decisions with a greater potential for lasting impact.
African leaders’ call for debt relief, fair global tax rules, and increased climate finance at COP28.
Two young Indigenous activists in Alaska are using their work and art to change the trajectory of their homeland.
Total’s construction of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline involves the relocation of over 2,000 graves in Uganda and Tanzania, a move that lacks respect for local customs.
The latest Lancet Countdown report underscores the imperative for a health-centred response in a world facing irreversible harm.
In a year where extreme heat, wildfires, floods and other natural disasters were rampant, the BBC has highlighted 100 women working to tackle climate change in the world.
The Africa Carbon Markets Initiative aims to use carbon markets to fund Africa’s green transition. However, some African environmental groups dub it a “false solution”, foreseeing old problems without lasting benefits.
These captivating underwater photos tell a powerful story beneath the surface and let us dive into the depths of climate change by showcasing the impact on our oceans.
Recommendations
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What we’re listening to
A public health expert’s guide to climate change
Due to climate change, the lives and well-being of an increasing number of people are at risk. Amruta Nori-Sarma, an assistant professor at Boston University School of Public Health specialising in environmental health, helps us understand climate change in terms of health rather than tons of carbon dioxide.
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What we’re attending
Climate Adaptation and Food and Water Security Workshop
Join practitioners, students and academics in a discussion about the latest findings from a research project on climate adaptation and diversity and what this means for food and water security. Others working on climate adaptation in India and Australia will also provide short presentations and there will be time for discussion.
When? Tuesday, 5 December, 4.30- 6.00am CET
Where? Online
COP28 Side Event – Building Heat Resiliency: Actions and Opportunities
Vulnerable populations in urban areas are experiencing the deadly impacts of extreme heat events like never before. In this panel, leading experts from around the world will highlight both nature-based and people-based solutions and opportunities that can make a difference at the local level to reduce the impacts of extreme heat.
When? Saturday, 9 December, 8.15 – 9.30am CET
Where? Online
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What we’re reading
Parable of the Sower – Octavia E. Butler
In this book, we see a world that has been devastated by global warming, which has caused water shortages, unrest, and disruptions to food supply. Outside of a few walled settlements, society has collapsed into anarchy. To exacerbate the situation, the US president seems more intent on mouthing strongman platitudes than improving the lives of his constituents.
