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COP30: The Paris Agreement After 10 Years

AIAU26-ADV01
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0.5 LU
Live course date: 06/26/2026 | 02:00 PM
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Description

Thursday, June 25, 2026  |  2-2:30pm ET

The 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) marked the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement and a critical shift from global dialogue toward concrete climate action. COP30 represents a moment of progress where the world is moving from talk to action, but also of significant political setbacks. This program explores the key components of the Belem Political Package while addressing significant challenges, such as the impacts of countries failing to submit their Nationally Determined Contributions. It further highlights how initiatives like the Buildings Breakthrough Agenda are driving essential policy and market changes for those in the built environment. Ultimately, the session is designed to provide vital insights for architects interested in advancing decarbonization, resilience, and international policy.

Learning Objectives

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Learn about the main components of the Belem Political Package, the decision text from COP30.

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Gain an understanding of challenges to the COP process, including the impacts of countries' failures to submit Nationally Determined Contributions.

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Learn how efforts such as the Buildings Breakthrough Agenda are driving policy and market changes for built environment professionals.

Instructors
Christopher Pumford

Christopher Pumford is a Manager of International Affairs at the American Institute of Architects. Prior to coming to AIA, Christopher was a Presidential Management Fellow at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and a Fulbright lecturer in Rabat, Morocco. Christopher obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy at the Tufts University Fletcher School. 

Derek Washam

Derek leads AIA's engagement with international partners to advance the organization and profession in alignment with AIA’s mission. He coordinates AIA’s Global Practice Committee, a volunteer member group focused on promoting excellence in international architectural practice, serving as a resource on international markets, practice, and design; international policy and trade; and enhancing the international practices of the membership. Derek has a B.A. in International Studies from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee.

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