Isidora Xenaki

Job title:

Masters of Research Student in Climate and Atmospheric Science

Area of work and how it relates to COP30:

My research focuses on how elevated heat and drought conditions affect wildfire occurrences in different climatic regions of the planet. The continuous fossil fuel use has resulted in more frequent and intense heatwaves and droughts, which make ecosystems more susceptible to fire during dry seasons. Wildfires may result in devastating consequences such as loss of natural environment, human health deterioration, and socioeconomic damages, and are responsible for vast amounts of carbon release in the atmosphere. As extreme wildfires are predicted to be more frequent in the near future, it is important to understand their regimes and develop action plans.

What are the big issues that COP30 needs to address? What are your hopes for the negotiations?

1. Ensure that the fossil fuel phase-out is achieved with equity towards developing countries.

2. Secure conservation and restoration of rainforests and indigenous lands.

3. Strengthen climate governance with defined national adaptation plans for all nations and reporting their success.

What's your message for world leaders at COP30?

Climate extremes have more serious effects on the economy than the fossil fuel phase-out. The management of these extremes calls for cooperation between governments and scientists to produce climate adaptation and resilience action plans.

Do you have any tips about climate action that you can share?

Firstly, read about atmospheric processes to understand how the climate is changing and how humans and nature are affected. Then start by participating in local community actions. These could include recycling, donating, buying from second-hand stores, tree planting, litter picking, biodiversity rescue, and supporting local businesses.