Background

The Global Cooling Pledge (GCP), launched at COP28 in Dubai under the leadership of the COP28 Presidency (United Arab Emirates), marked the first global political initiative dedicated to sustainable cooling. The Pledge sets ambitious yet critical goals to:

• Reduce cooling-related emissions by 68% relative to 2022 levels by 2050;
• Provide access to sustainable cooling for all by 2030;
• Double the efficiency of new air conditioners relative to 2022 levels by 2030 through raised ambition, innovation, and international cooperation.

Since its inception, the Pledge has quickly gained traction. As of September 2025, 72 countries, 15 sub-national governments, and 66 non-state actors have joined, signaling unprecedented momentum to collectively address the climate, health, and development challenges posed by rising heat. The COP30 Annual Ministerial on delivery of the Global Cooling Pledge will serve as a milestone to accelerate progress on Pledge implementation. In support, the Government of Singapore will host a high-level networking reception at the Singapore Pavilion.

This roundtable will provide ministers, city leaders, and partners, with an opportunity for informal exchange on Pledge’s implementation, with a special focus on the Beat the Heat implementation drive, and how national commitments translate into national and local action.

Objectives

• Strengthen political momentum and intergovernmental exchange by encouraging informal dialogue among ministers, high-level representatives, and key partners.
• Connect global ambition to national and local action through the Beat the Heat implementation drive, highlighting the role of cities and non-state actors in implementation.
• Showcase Singapore’s efforts as a Pledge Signatory on sustainable cooling and Pledge implementation, indicating interest to work with other countries and cities for technical assistance and sharing of best practices.

Outcomes

Agenda

10 min
Welcome and Opening Remarks
Ms. Grace Fu Hai Yien, Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and the Environment

25 min
Interventions and Announcements

25 min
Fireside Conversation
Moderated by Mr. Calvin Chong, Divisional Director, Energy and Climate Policy, Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (TBC)

30 min
Networking Reception (light refreshments)
Informal closed-door conversations and bilateral exchanges among participants.