The third day of COP31 saw world leaders gather in Antalya for the opening of the Leaders’ Summit, with discussions focusing on waste reduction, methane emissions and the implementation of international climate commitments.
Approximately 40 world leaders were expected to address the summit, including representatives from Türkiye, Australia, Brazil and the European Commission.
However, the day was also marked by logistical challenges and questions surrounding the attendance of several prominent international leaders. Here are the key developments from Day 3.
World Leaders Gather for COP31 Summit
The Antalya Leaders’ Summit officially began on Wednesday, bringing together heads of state and government to discuss international climate cooperation. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva were among those addressing the conference.
Leaders emphasised the importance of translating existing climate commitments into practical measures, with discussions covering emissions reductions, energy security and financial support for vulnerable countries.
Albanese highlighted the challenges facing Pacific Island nations, encouraging greater support for the Pacific Resilience Facility, which aims to help communities adapt to climate-related risks. Meanwhile, Brazil’s President Lula called for continued international cooperation despite differing national priorities.
Türkiye Calls for Global Zero Waste Action
Waste reduction was a central theme of Day 3, with Türkiye encouraging greater international support for its Zero Waste initiative. The programme focuses on reducing unnecessary waste, improving recycling and encouraging a circular economy, where materials are reused rather than discarded.
According to figures presented by Türkiye, the country’s recycling rate increased from approximately 13% in 2017 to 40% in 2025. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also addressed the relationship between waste management and climate change, highlighting the contribution of food waste and landfill emissions to global warming.
He encouraged countries to improve waste collection infrastructure, reduce food waste and increase methane capture from landfill sites.
Global Methane Pledge Faces Implementation Challenges
Progress towards the Global Methane Pledge was another major discussion point. The initiative aims to reduce global methane emissions by at least 30% below 2020 levels by 2030. However, discussions at the Global Methane Pledge Ministerial highlighted that current commitments are projected to deliver only around 10–11% of the reductions required to achieve this target.
Representatives discussed opportunities to strengthen emissions monitoring, improve regulatory frameworks and increase investment in methane reduction technologies. Particular attention was given to emissions from oil and gas operations, agriculture and waste management.
UN Proposes New Methane Standard for Oil and Gas
During the summit, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for the development of a global near-zero methane standard for the oil and gas industry. He requested that the United Nations Environment Programme develop a framework based on consistent emissions measurement, reporting and verification.
The proposal aims to improve transparency and establish clearer benchmarks for methane emissions associated with fossil fuel production. Guterres also highlighted the potential for existing technologies, including satellite monitoring and improved leak detection, to identify and reduce emissions.
The proposed standard remains under development and has not yet been formally adopted.
Climate Finance and Investment Remain Key Priorities
Financing the transition towards lower-emission technologies continued to feature prominently in discussions. The Climate and Clean Air Coalition highlighted research suggesting that investment in proven climate and air pollution solutions could generate approximately $15 in economic benefits for every dollar invested globally.
However, access to finance remains a significant challenge, particularly for developing economies. Discussions explored how international partnerships, technical assistance and private-sector investment could support the implementation of existing climate commitments.
Logistical Challenges Affect Summit Access
The arrival of world leaders also created disruption around the COP31 venue. Road closures and additional security restrictions caused confusion among delegates, with some arriving early following guidance from organisers while others worked remotely.
Several leaders previously expected to attend were also absent from the revised programme, including representatives from Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, the Netherlands and Sweden.
Despite these changes, representatives from countries particularly vulnerable to climate impacts, including the Marshall Islands, Somalia and Mauritania, remained involved in the summit.
With the Leaders’ Summit continuing into Day 4, attention remains on international cooperation, climate finance and the implementation of existing commitments. The discussions on methane reduction, waste management and energy infrastructure will continue to shape negotiations throughout the conference.
