The 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) officially opens today, 9 November, in Antalya, Türkiye, bringing together government leaders, international organisations, businesses, scientists and civil society representatives to advance global climate action.
Hosted by Türkiye, with Australia serving as President of Negotiations, the conference will run until 20 November. With a focus on moving from climate commitments to practical implementation, COP31 will address key global priorities, including the energy transition, green industrialisation, climate resilience, biodiversity protection and sustainable development.
Ukraine is participating with a national delegation which representatives are bringing its experience and expertise to the international climate dialogue. For the fifth consecutive year, Ukraine will present a national pavilion, this year – under the theme “Ukraine Is the Solution” (“Україна — це рішення”), demonstrating how the country is turning the challenges of war into opportunities for innovation, resilience and green recovery.
Ukraine’s participation highlights an essential message: Russia’s war is not only a humanitarian and security crisis but also an environmental catastrophe with consequences extending far beyond Ukraine’s borders. According to estimates by Ukraine’s environmental authorities, the war has generated approximately 311 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent in greenhouse gas emissions since February 2022. Damage to forests, water resources, protected areas and biodiversity further underlines the urgent need to recognise environmental security as an integral part of global climate action.
At COP31, Ukraine is also showcasing practical approaches to climate resilience, energy transformation and environmental restoration. Its national pavilion, covering 100 square metres, will offer visitors an interactive journey through Ukraine’s aquatic ecosystems, the environmental consequences of the war and the country’s green recovery solutions. The official pavilion opening ceremony is scheduled for 11 November.
Particular attention will be given to the protection of the Black Sea, a shared ecosystem of strategic importance to Ukraine and Türkiye. Through initiatives such as “Stepan. One Ocean,” an interactive environmental education project, Ukraine is encouraging global audiences to engage in marine conservation and take individual action for a healthier planet.
The conference will also provide an important platform for strengthening Ukraine’s international partnerships. The Ukrainian delegation is advancing cooperation with international partners on climate policy, environmental monitoring, sustainable mining, green investment and the implementation of the Paris Agreement. On 13 November, Ukraine will host an official UN side event, “Climate (in)security and Ecocide,” highlighting the links between armed conflicts, environmental destruction and international security.
Ukraine’s presence at COP31 goes beyond raising awareness of the environmental consequences of Russian aggression. It demonstrates the country’s determination to pursue a sustainable recovery, contribute practical solutions to global climate challenges and work with international partners towards a greener and more resilient future.
Ukraine’s message at COP31 is clear: protecting the environment, ensuring security and building a sustainable future are shared responsibilities. Ukraine is ready to be part of the solution.