Environmental Defense Fund at COP31

Antalya, Türkiye | Nov. 9-20, 2026

The annual United Nations climate conference brings nearly every country on Earth together to confront climate change.

This year’s conference, COP31, comes at a time of economic disruption. People everywhere are worried about the future as rising energy costs, fertilizer shortages and a changing climate strain communities large and small.

For decades, Environmental Defense Fund has been tackling tough environmental problems in ways that work for people and the economy. At COP31, we’ll bring that lens to combating climate change.

EDF scientists, economists and policy experts share sharp insights and research that lead to practical solutions. Working with governments, communities and businesses, we’re helping the world address climate change in ways that increase energy and economic security, improve people’s lives and protect nature.

Watch: What is COP?

EDF’s Meredith Ryder-Rude explains what happens at COP and how the conference helps the world make progress on climate change.

Expert commentary

EDF experts share in-depth analysis, highlighting issues to watch and success stories that can inspire, inform and pave the way for further progress.

Blog post

Does global climate action have a future?

Angela Churie Kallhauge

Executive Vice President, Impact
Expert Voices

What makes a sustainable fuel truly sustainable?

Morgan Rote

Associate Vice President of U.S. Fuels & Transportation
Blog post

Climate change is a math problem. The solution is smart economics.

Christopher Costello

Chief Economist

EDF’s key priorities at COP31

We’re advocating for solutions that address climate change while supporting energy security, affordability and resilience. And we’re working with partners to implement those solutions at the scale the world urgently needs.

Slashing methane and super pollutants for a better climate and health

Super pollutants like methane, black carbon and nitrous oxide are responsible for nearly half of global warming to date. Reducing super pollutants is like pulling a “climate emergency brake” to slow climate change. And cutting these pollutants can improve air quality, too. By linking progress on climate and clean air, EDF helps create solutions that benefit people now.

Improving fuels and fertilizer for a secure and sustainable future

The future depends on feeding and powering the world with less pollution. EDF’s research, advocacy and partnerships are laying the groundwork for that to happen. Fertilizers and alternative fuels must be made and used sustainably — and be readily available to the farmers and industries that rely on them.

Ramping up climate finance to turn pledges into real-world progress

Many countries have plans for tackling climate change but need funding to implement them. EDF’s research explores innovative ways to direct investment to emerging and developing economies, so finance can flow where it’s needed most. We also support development of well-designed carbon markets that cut pollution, protect forests and invest in communities.

COP31 events schedule

EDF will participate in a variety of events at COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, from Nov. 9-20. Please check back soon for event listings.

Featured projects and partnerships

EDF works to strengthen global collaboration on climate change and interconnected challenges, from air pollution to deforestation. View a selection of our featured work.