Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation and COP31 High-Level Climate Champion, delivered a speech after ringing the Opening Bell at the London Stock Exchange as part of London Climate Action Week.
During his opening speech at the London Stock Exchange headquarters on June 22, 2026, Samed Ağırbaş highlighted the critical role of climate finance and the green economy in the COP31 process, stating the following:
“Within the scope of London Climate Action Week; in line with the Zero Waste vision of our Honorary Chairperson, First Lady Emine Erdoğan, and within the framework of our Zero Waste Forum priorities, we invite all international actors to act with a shared commitment to strengthen reporting and transparency practices, recognizing the critical role of climate finance and the green economy in the COP31 process.
As we move towards COP31, the world does not need more promises. What it needs is progress. We must unlock financial resources, accelerate innovation, and place zero waste and circularity at the center of transformation and climate change mitigation. Furthermore, we must ensure that this transition benefits people, especially women and youth.
COP31 is not just a destination; it is an opportunity. Through it, moving to implementation is possible. I hope that during London Climate Action Week, we can all pool our resources and collective intelligence to generate smart solutions that will work for the whole world.”
London Climate Action Week
Held annually in June, London Climate Action Week brings together investors, banks, businesses, and policymakers to promote climate action on a local and global scale. Throughout the week, various events ranging from large-scale conferences to community-driven initiatives are organized, covering topics such as finance, energy, policy, and nature.
