Duarte Cordeiro: “Portugal has to remain ambitious” in climate policy – Sustainability

Questions to Duarte Cordeiro
“Partner” of the consultancy Shiftify and former Minister of Environment and Climate Action

How important is it to be present at COP29?
During the COP we have the opportunity to attend relevant conversations about the latest developments in climate policies, but also about technologies that are being applied around the world. When we think about the topic of climate acceleration, we have to share our knowledge, but also learn from the most innovative developments.

Do companies increasingly need help with the climate and energy transition?
Many companies are focused on their business areas and can use consultancy to plan their decarbonization process, but also to explore opportunities that may arise in this process, especially when crossing with other sectors, whether through technological modernization or carbon offsetting. There are sectors where the decarbonization process is more difficult, because it involves a lot of innovation, and not all companies have sustainability and innovation departments prepared for the change.

There are sectors where the decarbonization process is more difficult, because it involves a lot of innovation and not all companies are prepared for the change. Duarte Cordeiro
“Partner” at Shiftify consultancy

Is it different to come to the COP as a minister and as a businessman?
As minister, at the last COP28, in Dubai, I was involved in negotiating and building the final understanding. It is a great responsibility because we represent our country. We are a reference in the generation of renewable energy and climate financing for developing countries, with the exchange of public debt in Cape Verde and São Tomé for climate financing for these countries.

Is the legacy you left being well cared for?
The Government – and in particular the Minister of Environment and Energy – has rightly taken advantage of much of the work done in terms of energy, environmental and climate cooperation policy. Portugal has to remain ambitious at international level.