AUS student advocates for global climate action at COP29

Championing sustainability

Sameera Khan is an environmental science student and a dedicated EcoRep. Driven by a passion for sustainability, Sameera joined the EcoRep program to help educate the American University of Sharjah (AUS) community about the broader aspects of sustainability beyond just recycling.

She helped organize the fifth annual Higher Education Climate Dialogues (HECD), a student-led conference on sustainability, at AUS in collaboration with New York University Abu Dhabi.

Her commitment to sustainability led her to speak at COP29, the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference, where she proudly showcased AUS’ efforts and her own journey as a changemaker.

A voice at COP29

In Baku, Azerbaijan, Sameera had access to COP29’s exclusive Blue Zone, a space typically reserved for high-level decision-makers and global stakeholders. During the session, "Mindful Menus: Sustainable Catering at Conferences," Sameera delivered a solo presentation, highlighting the issue of food waste and local farming.

“This is one aspect of everyday life where sustainability may be forgotten. I wanted to point out that it is important to choose local caterers who prioritize environmental responsibility and homegrown ingredients. This challenges the misconception that the UAE is just an arid land and showcases how innovative farming techniques, such as hydroponics and vertical farming, enable the cultivation and sourcing of fresh produce within the country," said Sameera.

In her discussion, she also spoke about two major conferences with AUS involvement, namely the HECD in May 2024, and Conference of the Youth (COY) 18 in November 2023.

“Both conferences featured initiatives focused on sustainable eating. At HECD, catering was provided by Healthy Farm Eatery, which uses locally sourced ingredients. We also had AUS alumna Omar Shihab, owner of the Michelin-starred BOCA restaurant, known for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients, serving as a panelist at one of the conference sessions. Meanwhile, at COY18, the Ne'ma organization implemented the National Food Waste and Loss initiative, ensuring food waste minimization throughout the event, in support of the UAE's efforts to achieve SDG 2—Zero Hunger,” explained Sameera.

Exploring COP29

“I visited many of the booths at the Blue Zone and had the opportunity to network and engage with some interesting hosts, including KPMG, Save Soil (an India-based NGO focused on soil conservation), the World Bank and the UN Global Compact Network. I also connected with professionals such as the Head of Sustainability for Etihad Rail and interacted with representatives from various NGOs, discussing ways to collaborate and drive meaningful change,” she said.

Sameera immersed herself in the bustling environment of COP29 and attended sessions like "Delivering Climate Change Education" and the FAST Partnership Ministerial Meeting, gaining insights into initiatives like the Baku Harmoniya, which aims to transform agrifood systems sustainably.

“It was inspiring to hear the COP29 Youth Climate Champion and representatives from UN Adaptation and UNESCO emphasize the importance of integrating climate change education into our systems, and the crucial role youth must play in actively engaging with and deepening our understanding of climate issues,” said Sameera.

Experiencing Baku’s culture

It wasn't all work for Sameera—there was also plenty of fun and culture!

“I had the chance to visit the Carpet Museum, where I learned about Azerbaijan's rich history of carpet weaving, which was recognized in 2010 by UNESCO as part of the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. I also explored Baku’s Mini Venice, a charming replica of Venice featuring boat rides. I also strolled down the famous Nizami Street, a vibrant open-plan mall lined with shops and restaurants,” she said.

Empowered by AUS

Sameera credits AUS for shaping her journey.

"Working at AUS Sustainability has given me valuable exposure to both on-campus and off-campus events. Last year, when COP28 was held in the UAE, I had the opportunity to organize a trip for AUS students to visit the Green Zone on Youth Day. This allowed students from all majors to learn more and take action on sustainability, even within their own fields," she said.

For COP29, Sameera leveraged her experience as a podcast host for Tea With Gen Z, the Office of Student Experience's official podcast, to present in a conversational yet professional manner.

“I also used my experience from helping organize HECD as a benchmark for the sustainable standards AUS has set and how committed the university is to ensuring sustainability, especially through the Office of Sustainability,” she said.

Looking ahead

"As students, we have the power to shape a future that prioritizes our planet. My journey at AUS has prepared me to make a difference—and I hope to inspire others to do the same,” said Sameera.