Helping businesses recycle or reuse old IT equipment to become more sustainable is one of our core business values here at Asset Disposal. 

We have been following the key developments and pledges on tackling carbon emission reduction by world leaders attending the COP26 conference. 

Cop26 In Scotland – What is it?

The effects of global warming are happening now are irreversible and will worsen in the decades to come. Climate change is affecting every country. It is disrupting the national economies and affecting lives. Weather events are becoming more extreme, glaciers have shrunken, sea levels have risen, ice on rivers and lakes break up earlier, and plant and animal ranges have shifted. The world is not on track to keep the dangerous climate change in check, will the COP26 in Scotland change that? Well, let us see, but before that what is COP26.

Overview of COP26 in Scotland

COP26 is the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties that kicked off in the Scottish city of Glasgow on 31 October and will last until 12 November 2021. The climate conference is hosted by the UK in partnership with Italy welcoming world leaders, experts and activists who will find out the solutions to slow down global climate change.

The conference is attended by the countries that signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC); a treaty agreed in 1994.

Highlights or goals achieved in the COP26 conference

Presidents, prime ministers and experts from around the world are attending the conference and will report back on the progress of climate change since the Paris Agreement. Hopefully, there will be some new decisions on how to cut carbon emissions. The commitments made in Glasgow could directly affect our daily lives.

  • During the conference, world leaders promoted their efforts to limit greenhouse gases and expand renewable energy.
  • Countries like the US, India, China and the European Union came forward with 2030 emission reduction targets.
  • The US announced to increase its target for cutting greenhouse gas emissions to half by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050.
  • India announced it is aiming for net-zero emissions by 2070.
  • All countries agreed to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees and aim for 1.5 degrees.
  • Other major announcements include methane cuts, ending deforestation by 2030, halting coal financing and ending coal consumption.

Targets COP26 is working for

Climate change is the greatest risk we all are facing, thus the COP26 aims to work on the following targets:

  • Secure global net-zero emissions and keep 1.5 degrees within reach.
  • Adapt to protect natural habitats and communities.
  • Mobilise finance.
  • Work together to fight the challenges of climate change.

Impact of recycling and reusing products on the environment  

Recycling and reusing products have a significant positive impact on the environment. It helps:

  • Conserve resources for future generations.
  • Prevent emission of many greenhouse gases and water pollutants.
  • Save energy.
  • Reduces the need for new raw materials and preserves the rainforests.
  • Control the waste produced.
  • Raise overall environmental consciousness.

So, we all must do our part and give back to the community. We must opt for recycled products, try to use common services, look out for unnecessary packaging and avoid disposable and non-biodegradable items.

We all need to join hands to combat climate change, alone governments cannot do it.

For more information visit https://ukcop26.org 

To find out how we can help your business to recycle IT please check out our IT disposal services.