Dr Nandan Mukherjee, a University of Dundee academic at COP29, is urging for concrete actions to address climate change. He emphasized that despite almost 30 years of negotiations at COP meetings, greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere continue to rise. The concentration of carbon dioxide has increased from 352 ppm in 1992 to 422 ppm currently, indicating the urgency for meaningful actions.
One of the proposed actions is the production of climate-resistant homes that can withstand natural disasters in areas affected by climate change. The University of Dundee has been working on building houses in Bangladesh that are disaster-resistant and environmentally friendly. These homes can be lifted on stilts to avoid flooding, produce electricity and food, and are constructed using innovative brick designs that are three times stronger than sandstone.
Dr Mukherjee highlighted the importance of these climate-resistant homes in addressing the construction sector’s greenhouse gas emissions. He emphasized that these homes can be replicated worldwide due to their low production costs and basic material needs. However, he noted that global support is needed to expand such projects and combat the climate crisis effectively.
During COP29 negotiations, Dr Mukherjee will represent the government of Bangladesh and contribute to developing new Net Zero principles and Sustainable Development Goals. He stressed the importance of practical steps and radical innovations in achieving the SDGs, eradicating poverty, and addressing climate change.
In his article for The Herald, Dr Mukherjee called for economic rethinking and comprehensive measures to tackle homelessness and climate change. He highlighted the affordability and sustainability of climate-resilient homes, emphasizing the need for bold and collective actions to create a positive impact.
As the world faces increasing challenges related to climate change, homelessness, and achieving the SDGs, Dr Mukherjee’s call to action at COP29 urges decision-makers to prioritize tangible solutions over empty talks. The urgency to address climate change through innovative and sustainable initiatives is crucial in securing a better future for all.
