Why Organisations Pursue COP Observer Status — and What It Takes

ICN is an observer of the UNFCCC process and just attended COP30 in Belém, Brazil. At its heart, our role as observer is about turning global climate policy discussions into practical, on-the-ground climate solutions by connecting decision-makers with real-world innovation and experience. 

Global climate negotiations do not happen in a vacuum. While governments lead the talks, a list of accredited observers brings experience and evidence into the process, helping to connect ambition with action on the ground. 

For organisations like the ICN, observer status is rooted in a mission to further the use of clean technologies across the globe, with the overall goal of contributing to the important fight for a sustainable future. 

Five years as a COP observer has allowed ICN to engage directly with the organisations and institutions shaping the direction of global climate policy and action. 

What is a COP observer? 

In short, a COP observer is an organisation or institution accredited by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to participate in the annual UN Climate Change Conference. The observer contributes expertise and perspectives on an unpaid basis rather than through sponsorship.  

Unlike nation-states, observers do not have negotiating power, but they play an important role in bringing external expertise, real-world perspectives, and stakeholder voices into the global climate dialogue. 

ICN, a global alliance of over 20 cleantech clusters, was therefore eager to act as an official COP30 observer in Belém, Brazil. The event marked four consecutive years for ICN as a COP observer. 

Why become a COP Observer? 

So why do organisations like ICN dedicate themselves to the role as COP observers? In essence, the observer role helps ICN bridge the gap between broader climate policy and concrete climate action. 

ICN’s presence at COP30 underscored this by hosting a panel on industrial symbiosis, demonstrating how networks of innovators and industry can help decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors and make funding more impactful.   

As Ben Jorgensen, Head of the ICN Secretariat, puts it: 

“Becoming an observer isn’t just about attending the talks — it’s about bringing insights from our ecosystem’s experiences to shape global discussions and frameworks.” 

He adds: 

“Observer status allows us to spotlight emerging solutions from our members and build bridges between innovation, policy, and investment, helping to accelerate climate action.” 

to become a COP Observer You need… 

• Formal Accreditation. Organisations must apply and be admitted as an observer using the Online Admission System. This requires documentation showing an established legal status and a mission that aligns with climate policy, innovation, or sustainability objectives. 

• Climate Relevance. Observer applicants need a track record of climate-related activities — whether in research, policy, clean technologies, or implementation. For ICN, this includes linking cleantech clusters, navigating funding mechanisms, and helping members scale sustainable solutions globally.   

• Resource Commitment. While accreditation itself doesn’t involve a fee, meaningful participation at a COP requires resources: planning, travel, registration, and strategic engagement in side events, panels, and networking opportunities.  

You can get more details in how to obtain observer status at the UNFCCC website.