Leeds at COP30: an interview with Dr Syafiq Mat Noor

The annual Conference of the Parties (COP) will take place in Belém, Brazil this year, from 10-21 November. But what exactly happens at COP, who attends and why is it important?

Dr Syafiq Mat Noor, School of Education, gives us a full rundown in layman’s terms, shares his hope and vision ahead of attending the conference and also explains how colleagues can get involved. He also shares why his late father inspired him and gives insight into his life away from work, from rainforests and scuba diving to cooking and cats.

Can you describe your role in 100 words?

I am a Lecturer in Climate Change Education, Programme Lead for the MA Education and Impact Lead for the School of Education. I teach across several postgraduate modules that I have developed with colleagues, including ‘Climate Change and Sustainability Education’ and ‘Education for Sustainable Development’. I am also currently leading a British Academy-funded project, Voices of the Rainforest. The research explores the nexus between climate, nature and indigenous peoples, and examines how we can co-create a climate change curriculum grounded in indigenous knowledge.

How long have you worked at the University?

I joined the University of Leeds in August 2023, so I have been working here for about two years and three months.

What impresses you most about Leeds?

What impresses me most about Leeds is its genuine commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The University brings together people from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and disciplines, creating a vibrant environment where different perspectives are valued and collaboration thrives.

What exactly is COP?

Since my research mostly involves school children, and I have worked as a schoolteacher myself, I tend to explain things in layperson’s terms. Think of COP as a giant orchestra: each country is an instrument, and together they perform the symphony of climate action. The United Nations acts as the conductor, ensuring everyone follows the same score – the Paris Agreement – to keep global warming below dangerous levels.

What happens at COP?

At COP, this orchestra comes together to rehearse and refine the music. Countries negotiate how to cut emissions, adapt to climate impacts and support those most affected. Around them, scientists, educators and Indigenous leaders contribute new harmonies through side events and collaborations that inspire real-world solutions.

Why is COP important?

Without COP, the world would play out of tune – each nation acting alone, without rhythm or coordination. COP keeps humanity working in harmony, ensuring every voice is heard in the global effort to protect our shared home.

How does your work connect to COP30?

My work focuses on climate change education and indigenous knowledge. As part of the Voices of the Rainforest project, we have found that indigenous children are increasingly climate-vulnerable due to three interrelated challenges: the diminishing reliance of indigenous communities on rainforest habitats; the erosion of intergenerational indigenous knowledge; and the exclusion of this knowledge from mainstream school curricula.

What are you hoping for at COP30?

I hope COP30, hosted in the heart of the Amazon, will honour the voices of the rainforest and the indigenous peoples who protect it. My vision for COP30 is to see greater political and institutional recognition of indigenous knowledge as a foundational element of climate change education.

How can colleagues get involved or learn more about COP30?

Colleagues can follow updates from the UNFCCC and the University’s COP30 delegation, which will share insights, reflections and resources throughout the conference. Integrating COP themes into teaching, seminars and research discussions is another meaningful way to engage students and colleagues with global climate issues.

Is there something, or someone, that has inspired you in your career?

My late father, who was an exceptional educator and leader. He worked tirelessly to help those less fortunate and believed deeply in education as a force for change. His kindness, humility and lifelong dedication continue to inspire my work and values every day.

What’s your biggest achievement or something you’re really proud of?

As a teacher and educator, I am most proud when my students tell me they have been inspired by my work and approach to teaching. Knowing that I have encouraged them to think differently, to care more deeply about education and to create meaningful change in their own classrooms is the greatest achievement.

What was your dream job when you were a child?

I wanted to be a horticulturist. I have always been fascinated by plants, particularly those from rainforests, with their lush ecosystems and rich biodiversity. That early passion for nature continues to shape my work today.

What’s your favourite spot on campus?

Hillary Place, of course – the home of the School of Education. We recently came across a photograph showing that the building once had a greenhouse attached. There are now plans to restore the greenhouse and bring it back to life as a space for teaching and research

What do you do to relax away from work?

Cooking from scratch is my form of mindfulness – it helps me unwind and create something comforting at the end of the day. I also enjoy spending time with my two cats, Manu and Luna.

Where’s your favourite travel destination and why?

Rainforest regions, such as those in Malaysia, have always felt like home to me, and I am looking forward to attending COP30 in Belém, Brazil, in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. I am equally drawn to islands and the ocean, where I can scuba dive and experience the living world beneath the waves.