ENVIRONMENTAL AGENDA: PROS AND CONS

The COP29 Climate Conference in Baku focused on the impact of environmental changes on global human development processes and individual lives. The relevance of these issues in today's world was debated extensively at various levels during the summit. However, scepticism surrounding the significance of the climate agenda persists. It is up to scientists conducting relevant research to provide clarity and substantiate the critical nature of these issues.

During COP29, we spoke with Amina Salamova, the first Azerbaijani woman to earn an advanced degree abroad in ecology. Currently a professor at Emory University in the United States, she returned to Azerbaijan with a group of her students to participate in the conference.

Q: How long have you been involved in environmental research, and what are you currently working on? 

A: I am a chemist by training, having completed my master's program at Baku State University (BSU). I worked briefly in the Department of Organic Chemistry's laboratory before deciding to focus on scientific research. I chose to study the impact of environmental changes on human life, which led me to pursue a Master of Science in Environmental Science at Indiana University's School of Public and Environmental Affairs in the US. During my studies, I developed a keen interest in environmental chemistry, particularly the issue of atmospheric pollution caused by toxic anthropogenic substances.

I earned both a Master of Science and a Ph.D. from Indiana University and remain the only Azerbaijani to have obtained a Ph.D. in ecology from an American university. Over the past 20 years, I have conducted research in environmental chemistry, including directing a US-Canada collaborative program that monitors over 150 toxic substances in air and precipitation around the Great Lakes. The findings of this program are used globally by research institutions and agencies. I have also worked on indoor air pollution and other related studies.

Currently, my focus is on the effects of environmental issues on human health.

Q: COP29 highlighted environmental problems and climate change, yet global debates persist about the agenda's relevance. From a scientific perspective, what is the reality? 

A: There is overwhelming scientific evidence proving the reality of global warming. The rapid pace of these changes is driving severe disasters, including hurricanes and floods. The problem is immense, and ongoing research continues to yield alarming forecasts.

Numerous factors exacerbate climate issues, with industrial activities being a significant contributor. Unchecked emissions from industrial enterprises and inadequate waste management systems have led to rising atmospheric methane levels. Addressing these processes effectively can significantly alter the global climate landscape.

Q: You mentioned studying the health impacts of environmental issues. Have there been any significant findings? 

A: This field is of critical global importance. In the US, it receives considerable attention, with substantial research funded by private and public entities. At Emory University, we established the Climate Change and Health Center with the help of a grant. Our work primarily examines urban populations, particularly in Atlanta, where the centre is located.

We've already observed noteworthy findings, such as the link between rising temperatures and spikes in blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, unexplained fainting, and effects on the reproductive system. On days when temperatures exceed normal levels, medical emergencies surge dramatically.

Beyond warming, air pollution, contaminated water, and poor agricultural development—driven by environmental challenges—negatively impact nutrition in many regions. These are complex issues with implications for countless scientific studies.

Q: Addressing these problems requires significant financial resources, doesn't it? 

A: Absolutely. Industrialised nations bear the largest responsibility for environmental harm, yet the consequences affect the entire planet. Economically unstable countries struggle to manage environmental disasters on their own and require financial assistance. Investments are crucial for developing technologies to combat climate change and implementing disaster relief programs.

Q: You attended COP29 with a group of ecology students from Emory University. Did the summit influence their career choices? 

A: My students thoroughly enjoyed their time in Baku, exploring the city, going on excursions, and experiencing Azerbaijani cuisine. They were also impressed by the high level of organization at COP29. We participated in impactful discussions and networked with colleagues from around the world.

Some of my students even received job offers during the summit, proving that it served as an excellent platform for building professional connections.

Q: Lastly, in your view, what will happen if the world continues to ignore climate change, and what could the future look like if all planned programs are implemented? 

A: If urgent action isn't taken, the situation will worsen rapidly—more frequent floods, hurricanes, droughts, and fires will become a reality. This will affect everyone. On the human health front, we can expect declining immunity, increased vulnerability to infectious diseases, and higher mortality rates.

Despite these grim projections, I remain optimistic. Scientists like myself hope that global efforts will intensify to tackle these challenges. Only through collective action—across nations, professions, and communities—can we address this monumental issue and create a sustainable future.