As COP29 gets underway, a group of 11 students from across Harvard University are on the ground, attending meetings, sessions, and gaining firsthand experience at the world’s premier annual climate meeting.  

Through the COP Student Observers Funding Program, supported by the Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability, the Harvard University Center for the Environment, and the Harvard Project on Climate Agreements, students receive travel funding and related programming before and after the convening.  

Meet this year’s COP Student Observers: 

Disha Ganjegunte, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health 

“I’ve seen how climate change exacerbates health disparities, particularly in marginalized communities. My professional experience spans continents, including Greece, Nigeria, Brazil, and South Africa, where I’ve witnessed firsthand how climate change fuels conflicts and disrupts livelihoods. This drives my passion for addressing climate issues at the intersection of social, economic, and environmental justice… At COP29, I plan to focus on the thematic areas of climate resilience, particularly in conflict-affected regions, and the health implications of climate change.” 

Jerry Huang, Harvard College 

“As a senior at Harvard College pursuing a double major in Computer Science and Statistics, with a minor in Economics, I am deeply committed to understanding how international cooperation can enhance sustainable development, especially in developing countries in Asia…” 

Isabel Kelly, Harvard Kennedy School 

“While at COP29, I plan to follow negotiations related to two agenda initiatives: the Climate Finance Action Fund and the Baku Initiative for Climate Finance, Investment and Trade Dialogue…” 

Adarsh Kumar, Harvard Kennedy School 

I’m excited to gain direct experience in climate policymaking, particularly in the context of developing countries. Given my career goal to enter climate policymaking or climate innovation in the developing world, engaging directly with such delegates will help me build my professional opportunities and expand my network…” 

Donguk Lee, Harvard Graduate School of Design 

“My primary focus will be on the “Energy and Industry / Just Transition / Indigenous Peoples” thematic day, as these areas directly intersect with my work at CARBON CAPTOR. My background in carbon management within the energy industry will enable me to engage deeply with the sessions and discussions, enhancing my understanding and contributing to my startup’s mission…” 

Luca Mantovani, Harvard Business School 

“I aim to deepen my understanding of the financial and policy frameworks that shape global climate action. These insights will be critical as I pursue a career in the climate tech industry, allowing me to make informed decisions and drive impactful change. I also hope to connect with global leaders and collaborators who share the ambition of advancing scalable climate solutions…” 

Tomoki Matsuno, Harvard College 

“At COP 29, I am particularly interested in contributing to discussions surrounding the role of natural gas in the renewable energy transition, a topic I have been researching extensively for my senior thesis as well, particularly in the context of Japan and Australia’s bilateral energy relationship…” 

Ian Naccarella, Harvard Business School 

“My primary goal at COP29 is to expand my understanding of the global climate landscape, including policy, financing, and technological advancements… Upon returning to HBS, I plan to share my key takeaways widely…” 

Grace Taylor, Harvard College 

“My research explores the link between environmental degradation and adverse health outcomes, particularly in vulnerable communities… Attending COP will allow me to witness how real change gets made in the pursuit of a healthier planet and society, to network and enhance my professional development as an environmental scientist…” 

Angela Zhong, Harvard College 

“I am a first-generation Asian-American and a final-semester senior at Harvard University. I study economics, environmental science public policy, and Mandarin. Coming from Houston, I’ve personally experienced the impacts of natural disasters and climate change, which have fueled my passion for climate advocacy…”