About UN Climate Conference COP31

The 31st session of the United Nations Climate Conference of the Parties (COP31) will take place November 9-20, 2026, in Antalya, Türkiye. Cornell University’s COP31 delegation, mobilized through The 2030 Project: A Cornell Climate Initiative and the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, will contribute research and expertise to advance equitable, science-based climate solutions with Parties and observers at the conference.

At COP31, Cornell experts and students will engage in discussions on climate governance and the built environment, areas where the university is helping develop practical solutions for a more sustainable and resilient future. In partnership with a network of global partners*, Cornell participants will help advance critical conversations shaping climate solutions worldwide. This year’s strong student representation underscores Cornell’s commitment to preparing the next generation of sustainability leaders through direct engagement in global climate policy and action.

First held in Berlin in 1995, the annual United Nations Climate Change Conference serves as the meeting of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. The conference convenes world leaders, negotiators, researchers, business leaders, and civil society organizations to assess progress on climate goals and strengthen international cooperation.

At COP31 and beyond, Cornell will contribute research-driven insights and strategic partnerships while providing students with firsthand experience in the collaborations shaping the future of global climate action.

* Diverse Government and NGO partners include: the Republic of Armenia, the American Arab Intellectual Property Association (AAIPA), Armenia Women in Climate and Energy (WiCE), Earth Child Institute, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA), Global Dairy Platform, Mobilizing an Earth Governance Alliance (MEGA), Resources for the Future, Second Nature, Solutions from the Land, and UMC-GBCS Environmental Justice Program.