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Decoding UNFCCC language

This guide discusses the COP process, explaining how decisions are made and what the technical language means.


Handbook


COP30, the UN Climate Change Conference, takes place in Belém, from 10 to 21 November 2025. Created as part of the ActNowFilm project, this guide from Cambridge Zero, the Institute for Policy Research and ClimaTalk covers:

  • Who's who of COP
  • Where negotiations happen – and how decisions are made
  • Core acronyms
  • What language really means
  • Red flag words and phrases
  • How to track negotiations
  • Frequently asked questions

Accessible alternatives

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