Whitworth Students to Attend United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP 29, in Azerbaijan
Hitefield was able to attend the conference in person in Dubai last year, and Richardson attended virtually. But this time, both of them, along with Rose, will sit among some of the world’s top policymakers and climate experts from 200 countries.
Richardson is a senior majoring in political science and environmental studies. He says he is most looking forward to connecting with professionals in the world of environmental policy and creation care and interacting with policymaking on the world stage in the room where it all happens.
“Representing Whitworth as an official observer is the culminating experience available to a student of environmental policy,” Richardson says. “This meeting is an opportunity to practice good stewardship of God’s creation, personally enter into the policy process, engage with global environmental leaders, and critically examine the way I approach creation care as a vocation.”
Following graduation next spring, Richardson plans to serve in the environmental/conservation nonprofit realm before attending law school.
Rose, also a senior, is an environmental science major. She says she is most looking forward to being surrounded by leading experts and advocates driving critical climate discussions and engaging in policy debates that will give her invaluable insights into contributing more effectively to global environmental action.
“Attending COP29 holds immense significance for me, as it aligns perfectly with my passion for international relations within climate issues and my long-term career aspirations in this field,” Rose says. “I firmly believe that individuals with a background in environmental science, like myself, play a crucial role in shaping climate policy. By bridging the gap between scientific research and policy formulation, we can ensure that evidence-based solutions are at the forefront of decision-making processes. My passion for this work stems from a deep-rooted desire to safeguard our planet for future generations and to promote sustainable development that prioritizes both environmental preservation and social equity. Thus, attending COP29 not only serves as a pivotal step in advancing my career but also allows me to contribute meaningfully to the international dialogue on climate action, advocating for policies that are grounded in scientific expertise and driven by a commitment to environmental stewardship.”
Rose worked on climate action plans in Italy last summer and after graduation, next year, will focus on returning to long-term research projects conducted by the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) in the Tundra and Boreal Forest biomes in central and northern Alaska where she worked in 2023.
The climate COP meets in a different city every year to demonstrate the importance of collaboration from nations across the globe. While the overall goal of these meetings is increasing global cooperation to fight climate change, this year’s agenda includes 14 new initiatives intended to accelerate climate action and stimulate a transition toward sustainability. The initiatives cover topics such as zones and corridors for green energy, energy storage and strengthening climate resilience.
COP 29 runs from Nov. 11-22.
About Whitworth University:
Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university, which has an enrollment of about 2,500 students, offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Contacts:
Trisha Coder, associate director of media relations, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu.
