This global event brings together governments, organizations, and activists to discuss and negotiate pressing issues related to biodiversity, climate change, and environmental sustainability. If you're attending the convention, it's essential to understand the different areas where activities and discussions will happen: the Blue Zone and the Green Zone.
What is the Blue Zone?
The Blue Zone is the core of the convention, reserved for official negotiations and government-level discussions. This area is accessible only to registered participants such as government officials, negotiators, UN representatives, and accredited media.
Inside the Blue Zone, high-level meetings, policy debates, and drafting sessions take place, focusing on reaching binding agreements and commitments to tackle environmental challenges.
Key highlights of the Blue Zone include:
- Plenary Sessions: High-level meetings where global representatives discuss key policies.
- Negotiation Rooms: Spaces for diplomatic dialogues between nations and blocs.
- Press Areas: Exclusive zones for accredited journalists covering the event.
If you have an official accreditation or belong to a government delegation, you’ll need to go through a security checkpoint to access the Blue Zone.
What is the Green Zone?
The Green Zone is open to the general public and serves as a space for cultural events, educational exhibitions, and participation from civil society and private organizations. Here, you’ll find activities that celebrate environmental action, from art installations to panel discussions with activists and experts. It’s designed to engage visitors with the themes of the COP and showcase the role of non-governmental actors in promoting sustainability.
In the Green Zone, you can explore:
- Workshops and Exhibitions: Featuring innovations in environmental technologies.
- Cultural Activities: Art exhibits, concerts, and storytelling sessions promoting biodiversity.
- NGO Booths and Initiatives: Interact with non-profits and community organizations advocating for climate action.
This area is a great way to experience the intersection of culture and sustainability, making it accessible and interactive for visitors of all ages.
How to Get There
Both the Blue and Green Zones will be located within the Centro de Eventos Valle del Pacífico, a large convention center on the outskirts of Cali. Here’s how you can reach them:
From Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport:
a. By Taxi: A direct ride will take approximately 30 minutes, costing around COP 60,000–70,000.
b. By Shuttle Service: The COP16 organizing committee offers airport shuttles to and from the event venue.
From Downtown Cali:
a. By Taxi or Rideshare Apps: The ride takes about 40 minutes, with fares around COP 50,000–60,000.
b. By Bus: Several public buses head toward Centro de Eventos Valle del Pacífico, but it's recommended to check routes beforehand for specific schedules.
Shuttle Services:
For registered participants, dedicated shuttles between official hotels and the venue will operate throughout the event, providing an easy and reliable way to reach the Blue Zone.
Security and Entry Guidelines
- Blue Zone: Only participants with official accreditation can enter, and visitors must pass through security checks.
- Green Zone: Open to all attendees; no prior registration is required. However, participants are encouraged to register for workshops or events to secure a spot.
Most used transportation apps in Cali
In Cali, the most popular transportation apps are Uber, DiDi, Cabify, and InDriver. Each offers differents services tailored to users’ needs:
- Uber provides private rides, shared options, and premium vehicles.
- DiDi allows users to add trusted contacts for real-time tracking, enhancing safety.
- Cabify integrates several categories, including business rides, Cabify Lite, and Easy Taxi.
- InDriver stands out by letting passengers and drivers negotiate the trip fare in real time.
These apps are widely used by both locals and visitors, providing flexible and reliable ways to navigate the city efficiently
Welcome to COP16
Whether you're attending official meetings in the Blue Zone or exploring the vibrant exhibits of the Green Zone, COP16 in Cali promises to be a platform for innovation, dialogue, and meaningful actions toward global environmental goals. Make sure to take advantage of both areas to experience the full range of activities that this important convention offers.
Welcome to Cali, and enjoy your participation in COP16.
