IAEA at COP30: Nuclear Energy, Technology and Science Shaping a Sustainable Future
Belém, Brazil — November 7, 2025
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is set to take a prominent role at the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), held from November 10 to 22, 2025, in Belém, Brazil. Highlighting the vital contributions of nuclear energy, technology, and science to addressing global energy and environmental challenges, the IAEA will present innovative solutions that support sustainable development and climate action worldwide.
Atoms4Climate Pavilion: A Hub of Nuclear Innovation
For the fourth consecutive year, the IAEA will host the Atoms4Climate Pavilion at COP30—a dedicated space offering a wealth of information, exhibits, and events centered on nuclear science’s role in fostering clean energy and environmental stewardship. The pavilion will showcase how nuclear techniques assist countries in advancing clean energy production, securing food supplies, managing water resources sustainably, and protecting ocean ecosystems.
Throughout the conference, IAEA experts will engage with attendees, providing presentations and participating in high-level discussions. The pavilion’s inauguration on November 10 will feature a virtual address from IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi alongside keynote speeches delivered by ministers, senior government officials, representatives from international organizations, industry leaders, and non-governmental organizations. This gathering underscores the critical role of nuclear energy within the global clean energy transition.
Highlighting Nuclear Energy’s Future and Innovations
Among the key sessions organized by the IAEA at COP30 is a United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) side event focusing on financing strategies for deploying low-carbon energy technologies. Building on insights from the first Global Stocktake at COP28, the session will explore pathways to accelerate the integration of nuclear power alongside renewables, emissions abatement approaches, and carbon removal technologies—especially relevant for hard-to-abate industrial sectors and for producing low-carbon hydrogen.
Small modular reactors (SMRs), recognized for their flexibility and cost-effectiveness, will also be in the spotlight. SMRs present promising options for powering smaller grids and energy-intensive applications such as industrial facilities, data centers, and commercial shipping. The IAEA will host an event dedicated to discussing approaches to SMR financing, policy frameworks, and regulatory measures to facilitate their deployment.
Additionally, advancing nuclear fusion research will be showcased in partnership with the ITER project, offering updates on current technological developments and research achievements.
Events highlighting new financing models to promote nuclear energy adoption, especially in emerging markets and developing economies, will be featured under initiatives such as the IAEA’s Atoms4NetZero programme, emphasizing strategic energy planning and international cooperation.
Nuclear Science Driving Sustainable Development
Beyond energy generation, the IAEA will present nuclear science applications that enhance food security, safeguard water resources, and support ocean health—critical components of climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
One featured event will highlight the sterile insect technique, an environmentally friendly nuclear-based method for pest control. This technique has delivered notable successes in Latin America by managing fruit fly populations, thus aiding sustainable agriculture and opening export markets for fruits and vegetables.
Another event will focus on the use of nuclear techniques to monitor glacier retreat, providing vital data needed to ensure the sustainability of future water supplies amid changing climatic conditions.
Moreover, the IAEA will spotlight research using nuclear and isotopic methods to assess blue carbon ecosystems—natural carbon sinks such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. These ecosystems play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, coastal ecosystem preservation, and biodiversity conservation, informing policies that support marine life and coastal economies.
Engagement and Information Access
All COP30 attendees and those interested worldwide can follow the IAEA’s activities and live updates via its social media channels, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, and Threads.
For detailed information on the IAEA’s full schedule of events at COP30, as well as additional resources and media materials, please visit the official IAEA web page dedicated to this conference.
About the IAEA
The International Atomic Energy Agency is a global organization dedicated to promoting the peaceful use of nuclear technologies and ensuring nuclear safety and security. Its work spans multiple sectors including energy, health, agriculture, and environmental protection, contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Contact Information:
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Email: official.email@iaea.org
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