COP29, the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, took place in Baku from November 11-22, 2024, bringing together leaders, academics, and innovators in a concerted effort to combat climate change.

High-stakes negotiations at COP29 have hit a major roadblock. Developing nations stormed out of talks, rejecting an offer of $250 billion annually by 2035 to tackle climate change. The dramatic exit comes amid accusations that fossil fuel states and wealthy nations are prioritizing politics over the survival of vulnerable countries.

But as exciting as it was, attending this climate summit also came with its challenges—starting with just getting to the venue – the Olympic Stadium. The first morning of the conference, I left the hotel armed with a map on the phone and what I thought was a good sense of direction.