I am first and foremost thankful for Climate Generation staff and the organization as a whole for all the work, time and each individual that had a hand in providing the well organized, safe and accommodating traveling experience. I will forever be grateful for being selected and provided the opportunity to witness the many nations/nationalities all in one place at the same time, I can best describe as beautiful.
Reminding myself to be present in the moment as I navigate through the security checkpoints, presenting my COP28 invitation acceptance letter to receive my official COP28 “Observer” badge and complimentary water canister. It became easy to forget you’re essentially in a desert when walking in and out of the buildings that were individually occupied by the respective nation and its flag displayed at the entryway of each building. I attempt to visit every nation’s building
To see and listen to the climate actions, efforts, programs, initiative and movements happening throughout the world being carried out by everyday people taking action was nothing short of amazing.
When I would attend certain events or presentations I admit to feeling in-over my head because of my limited time spent participating in certain discussions or conversations for example “climate policy” but not for a lack of interest. I was in the right place to learn and ask questions. Every single person I had the privilege of speaking to had a table or both set-up and filled with information about what they’re doing in their respective part of the world. They were so well informed and prepared to answer questions, connecting with the boots on the ground individuals, educators, outreach, the teachers, the builders of community lead projects.
The people putting clean energy solutions in motion were the part of my experience at COP that I related to the most.
It was nothing short of inspirational to recognize the commonality regardless of the cultural differences and language barriers to know what motivated me all the way on the other side of the planet was motivating someone else. There’s a deeper connection between every human being regardless of how much distance that may exist between them and that became very evident towards the end of my experience at COP28!
My name is Keith M. Dent, I started my career in the solar industry in 2015. My work experience range from Solar Tech, Residential and Commercial Solar Project Manager to Lead Installer on the first community solar garden in Minneapolis, MN. In 2016 started JUST B SOLAR. A youth and young adult, PV solar electric and renewable energy organization. We focus on education, green career training and community outreach. I also serve on the board of directors for a solar project development, Co-op responsible for projects such as, solar for affordable housing, with the belief clean affordable energy should be accessible to all.
Keith is a Climate Generation Window Into COP delegate for COP28. To learn more, we encourage you to meet the full delegation and subscribe to the Window Into COP digest.