Dr Chukwuka Monyei
Meet Dr Chukwuka Monyei, who is attending COP26 in November. Hear about Dr Monyei's expectations for the event, and why it's so important for the planet.
About Dr Monyei
Dr Chukwuka Monyei, is Research Fellow in Energy Justice and Transitions in the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) at the University of Sussex Business School.
Dr Monyei's view on COP26
How important are global events like COP26 in setting the world in the right direction on climate change, sustainability and the environment?
"I will say very important. Events like the COP26 provide a platform for negotiations and networking among stakeholders which are integral inputs for successful partnerships. The only caveat here should be less focus on such events going forward and more focus on action/execution – we've had enough of such meetings."
If the world could come together over issue/one resolution at this year's COP, what would you want that to be?
"Realistic targets that appreciate the need for pragmatism in driving global energy transitions."
With the world’s two largest emitters (China and the US) making up over a 50% of global totals, would COP be viewed as a failure if new binding agreements that include both nations were not successfully negotiated?
"No. The world has to learn to move on with or without them. Additionally, future emissions are expected to come from the Global South which will impact their influence emissions-wise in coming years."
Is the UK right to call itself a climate leader, does it have the necessary moral authority to lead a transformative agenda at COP26?
"No. The UK's Net-Zero targets are at variance with her actions which question any moral authority she attempts to wield."
How does your own research fit around the themes and issues of COP?
"An emerging aspect of my research seeks to understand how global attempts at achieving Net-Zero emissions will affect the sustainability of metals and rare earth minerals needed to facilitate this transition. My research is thus aimed at achieving sustained intergenerational balance in resource availability by examining how the adoption and optimisation of our global energy systems, energy use, and a robust circular economy can achieve a reduction in emissions and prevent rapid resource depletion especially for future generations."
What will you be doing at COP26 and what do you hope to get out of it personally?
"I will be participating in sessions and listening to presentations, networking, building new partnerships, and getting a feel of how serious political leaders are in driving a more sustained and human-centered energy transition. Personally, my expected take-out from COP26 will be a gauge of how serious the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries are in combating climate change."