Author: The Kernel & Gayatri Karnik
This year marked Generation Atomic’s eighth consecutive year at COP, and our commitment to advancing the role of nuclear energy in climate action was stronger than ever at the world’s biggest annual climate conference. COP29, known as the “Finance COP,” focused on funding and implementing prior agreements—a critical step in turning global climate promises into tangible outcomes.
Our delegation—comprising Gayatri Karnik, Vladislav Malashevskyy, Angelica Oung, Lake Dodson and Guido Nunez Mujica—worked tirelessly to ensure that nuclear energy was not only represented but prominently featured in COP29 discussions. From early-morning briefings to late-night discussions, we wanted to ensure that nuclear energy’s role in combating climate change remains on the table (and in the outcomes).
Here is an overview of our delegation’s efforts, impact, and contributions at COP29.
COP29: Why It Mattered
Following the momentum of COP28, often referred by some as the “Nuclear COP” due to the Triple Nuclear Pledge and the recognition of nuclear energy in the Global Stocktake, COP29 shifted the spotlight to climate finance. The outcomes of this conference were pivotal in determining how the international community would operationalize commitments made in previous years.
For Generation Atomic, this was an opportunity to ensure that nuclear energy remains a key part of the conversation. Our team tracked negotiations, engaged with stakeholders, and provided early morning briefings to nuclear civil society, summarizing negotiation developments and implications for nuclear energy.
Advancing Nuclear Energy Advocacy
Generation Atomic played a crucial role in advocating for nuclear energy as a sustainable solution for the energy transition. We remained committed in our partnership with the Nuclear for Climate, an initiative that advocates for nuclear energy at the UN Climate Conference. Key activities included:
- Outreach to Country Delegations: Engaging with representatives at national pavilions to discuss the role of nuclear energy in their climate strategies.
- Climate Plan Analysis: Reviewing the climate action plans of countries mentioning nuclear energy to understand their commitments and identify opportunities for advocacy.
- Interviews with Thought Leaders: Speaking with policymakers, advocates, and energy transition experts to gather perspectives on nuclear energy’s future.
A notable highlight was meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, where we emphasized the importance of nuclear energy in global climate forums. Additionally, we spoke with Dr. Michael Goff of the U.S. Department of Energy, who shared insights on the longevity and reliability of America’s nuclear power plants as 100-year assets.
Creative Advocacy and Public Engagement
Generation Atomic also employed innovative approaches to public engagement. What’s COP without some creative advocacy? Enter Melty the Polar Bear, our fluffy mascot handing out bananas. Why bananas? Because eating one gives you the same radiation dose as living near a nuclear power plant for a year. A quirky, memorable way to tackle misconceptions about nuclear safety and introduce radiation as something that we interact with in our everyday lives!
At our exhibit with Nuclear for Climate, we educated attendees on nuclear energy’s role in achieving net-zero emissions, sparking meaningful conversations with people all over the world— from NGOs and industry leaders to diplomats and ministers about its potential. We also welcomed New York Times reporters to our advocacy activities, further amplifying our message.
Official Side Event on Clean Energy Solutions
In line with our mission to showcase nuclear energy’s versatility, Generation Atomic, in coordination with European Nuclear Society, American Nuclear Society and Voices for Nuclear hosted an official UNFCCC side event focused on Clean Energy Solutions for Hard-to-Abate Sectors. The event brought together industry experts to explore the role of nuclear and renewable energy in decarbonizing industries that are particularly challenging to transition to clean energy.
Defending Nuclear Energy Against Misinformation
A notable challenge at COP29 was addressing misinformation about nuclear energy propagated by anti-nuclear organizations. Members of our team attended an anti-nuclear press conference, where groups such as the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW), Nuclear Information and Resource Service (NIRS) and the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) made misleading statements against nuclear energy.
Instead of remaining silent, we took action. We engaged directly with these organizations, discussing their claims and highlighting discrepancies using data. We facilitated constructive discussions to counteract the spread of misinformation. It is vital to combat the anti-nuclear narratives and sentiments still prevalent at UN climate summits to safeguard the credibility of nuclear energy within the broader climate conversation.
Reflecting on Our Participation
As the outcomes of COP29 take shape, we remain committed to advocating for the inclusion of nuclear energy in climate solutions and financing frameworks. Stay tuned for further reflections on COP29 outcomes in our upcoming blog and join us in championing nuclear energy as a cornerstone of the clean energy transition.
