COP26-The World's 'Best Last Chance' to Get Climate Change Under Control

With storms, wildfires and air pollution intensifying, the push to yank the reigns on runaway climate change continues to escalate. Crunch time is approaching and world leaders are feeling pressured to devise a plan of action with governments, activists, and businesses around the globe heading down to the 26th Conference of the Parties(COP) hosted by the United Kingdom in Glasgow.

October 31st marks the beginning of the landmark international climate conference with the main agenda composed of 3 key points. Reducing emissions to stay below 1.5-degree targets, strengthening adaptation/resilience to climate impacts, and scaling up support for developing nations all highlight the leading actions organizers hope to accomplish during this years session. Though many are hopeful for bold, largescale and rapid commitments from the 197 participating nations, some worry agreements will resemble previous years where many promises were made but little fulfilled. One thing's for sure, the world will be watching as 100s of delegates, civil society members, businesses and media outlets come together to discuss the implementation of new climate measures as well old ones like the 2015 Paris Agreement.

Under the presidency of the United Kingdom, COP26 is tasked with finalizing the rulebook that details the conventions on which the Paris Agreement operates. But not only this, the summit is also gearing up to accelerate international action on tackling the climate crisis.

As emphasized by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, "Securing a brighter future for our children and future generations requires countries to take urgent action at home and abroad to turn the tide on climate change." The summit is a crucial next step in global recovery that rebuilds sustainable, regenerative and equitable systems many hope will enable the survival of future generations.

For nearly 3 decades the UN has brought together decision-makers from around the world under COP as a way to set the stage for international cooperation on climate. This year will be no different with a jam-packed schedule including governmental discussions, exhibitions, report launches and themed events.

For more on the conference agenda and schedule check here and stay tuned on Discovery for updates as the pivotal week unfolds.