Climate Change Conference: Uniting the World to Tackle Climate Change

<div style="font-size: 0.95em; line-height: 1.4;"><p align="justify">The Climate Change Conference is a five-party, multi-issue, in-class negotiation simulation that requires no software or other digital means. The exercise develops an understanding of the complex landscape of global climate change mitigation and adaptation measures across various constituencies. At the core of the simulation, students take the roles of representatives from Developed Countries, Developing Countries, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Fossil Fuel Companies, and Electric Vehicle (EV) Firms, with each stakeholder having distinct priorities and interests. In a highly interactive small- and large-group negotiation process, participants navigate through three critical issues: (1) securing global net-zero emissions by mid-century by keeping the goal of a maximum 1.5℃ average global temperature rise within reach through (a) meeting emissions reduction targets, (b) coal phase-out, (c) methane reduction, and (d) halting deforestation; (2) protecting communities and natural habitats; and (3) mobilizing climate finance.

<div style="font-size: 0.95em; line-height: 1.4;"><p align="justify">The Climate Change Conference simulation is a versatile pedagogical tool suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate-level courses and executive development programs related to international business, global governance, environmental studies, and interdisciplinary programs. It allows students to apply concepts related to climate change, sustainable development, and international business in a practical, engaging setting. The simulation can be run as a stand-alone exercise or be integrated into the course as a longer-term project, deepening students’ understanding of the business, political, and societal dimensions of climate change while developing crucial skills in negotiation and collaborative problem-solving. Its interdisciplinary nature makes it a valuable addition to courses exploring global sustainability challenges and the intersection of nation states, business, and climate change.<br><br>Upon completing the Climate Change Conference simulation, students will be able to<br><br><ul><li>apply interest-based negotiation principles to address stakeholders’ concerns and build coalitions in complex multi-party, multi-issue global climate diplomacy;</li><li>analyze climate change impact across sustainable development goals (SDGs) and develop integrated governance approaches that harmonize climate action with sustainable development;</li><li>bridge cultural differences and diverse national interests to foster collaboration and reach mutually acceptable agreements in international climate negotiations;</li><li>identify opportunities to leverage synergies between climate action and other SDGs, such as clean energy and economic growth, while ensuring a just and equitable transition to a low-carbon economy; and</li><li>explore the scientific basis for climate change, policy options, and technologies for reducing emissions and adapting to impacts, and understand the importance of financing and investment in driving the low-carbon transition.</li></ul>

• UN Climate Change simulation
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)