In Azerbaijan, the venue for the COP29 climate summit, unconventional practices meet pressing global issues. While negotiators discuss reducing fossil fuel emissions in Baku, people in surrounding areas are indulging in oil baths that locals swear by for their health benefits. Naftalan, a town four hours from the capital, is famous for its unique chocolate-hued oil that is touted as healing rather than burning.
The irony of holding a climate summit in a petrostate is not lost on many. Azerbaijanis have a specific pride in their oil, linked historically to significant events like their support in WWII. However, reports indicate that Naftalan's "medical" oil reserves are depleting, raising concerns about sustainability even as citizens celebrate its presence.
As participants at COP29 face the realities of climate change, the juxtaposition of luxurious oil baths and a dire need for reduced emissions creates a striking narrative about our ongoing relationship with fossil fuels in a world seeking greener solutions.
The irony of holding a climate summit in a petrostate is not lost on many. Azerbaijanis have a specific pride in their oil, linked historically to significant events like their support in WWII. However, reports indicate that Naftalan's "medical" oil reserves are depleting, raising concerns about sustainability even as citizens celebrate its presence.
As participants at COP29 face the realities of climate change, the juxtaposition of luxurious oil baths and a dire need for reduced emissions creates a striking narrative about our ongoing relationship with fossil fuels in a world seeking greener solutions.
