The COP31 Simulation was organized by Medipol SURKAM ( Medipol Sustainable Development and Twin Transition Application and Research Center) at Istanbul Medipol University to increase awareness of the upcoming COP31 process and to help young participants better understand climate diplomacy through an interactive negotiation experience. The COP31 Simulation brought together students, academics and professionals to explore the challenges of international climate negotiations while preparing for COP31, which Türkiye will host in Antalya in 2026.As a member of the SURKAM team, I had the opportunity to contribute to the organization of the COP31 Simulation while also participating in the programme. Throughout the COP31 Simulation, participants represented countries and institutions, negotiated climate finance, adaptation strategies, green transformation and international cooperation, and experienced the complexity of decision-making within the COP31 process. The simulation successfully demonstrated how dialogue, collaboration and diplomacy are essential to achieving meaningful climate action.

The COP31 Simulation was more than an academic exercise. It created a realistic environment where participants developed negotiation, communication and critical thinking skills while gaining a deeper understanding of global climate governance. As an industrial designer working at SURKAM, the COP31 Simulation reinforced my belief that sustainable design, circular economy principles and climate policy should evolve together to create long-term environmental impact.

Being involved in the organization of the COP31 Simulation through SURKAM allowed me to experience the event from both organizational and participant perspectives. The COP31 Simulation became an inspiring platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, climate diplomacy and knowledge exchange, and the insights I gained will continue to shape my approach to sustainable industrial design, innovation and future-focused product development.