It is a pleasure to address this message to all governmental representatives, participants, and those following the proceedings of the COP29 in my role as President of the International Union of Architects – UIA.
The challenges humanity faces today are numerous and complex. The climate crisis, frequent natural disasters, political upheavals, and wars constantly threaten our globalised, digital, and increasingly urbanised world. In many parts of the globe, we are confronted with architecturally uncontrolled urbanisation, informal settlements but also with newly built cities that lack a true sense of heart.
By 2050, two-thirds of humanity are expected to live in urban areas, which are the largest consumers of energy and materials, and producers of waste. The building sector is responsible for over one-third of global energy consumption and emissions. We can no longer ignore such facts. Progress has been made, but the UN Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024 is clear: it is not enough.
The UIA welcomes COP 29’s contribution and commitment to keeping the 1.5°C target within reach, while ensuring that no one is left behind. We are here to advocate that architects are crucial partners in achieving this vision, working in the public interest, towards a greener, better, safer habitat and sustainable urbanisation.
If enhancing ambition means setting out clear plans to keep the 1.5°C goal within reach, then architecture is essential. If enabling action requires establishing the means for implementation and support—finance, technology, and capacity building—then we stand with over 3.5 million architects from 120 countries affirming that, from small offices to large enterprises, architects are uniquely positioned stakeholders in the building sector.
With their multi-sectoral, multi-dimensional, and forward-looking vision, architects are key agents for the sustainable development of cities, territories and communities, ensuring that our urban and built environments are not only functional, but also inclusive, enriching, sustainable, and beautiful, thereby substantially contributing to social cohesion and wellbeing of people.