Baku, November 15, AZERTAC

Yusuf Karimli, a social activist and aerospace researcher, delivered a presentation at the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29). His report, titled "Is the Aerospace Industry Sustainable?", focused on addressing key challenges in the aerospace sector and explored how young people can contribute to the sustainable development of aerospace and urban air mobility.

AZERTAC presents an exclusive interview with Yusuf Karimli.

- Mr. Yusuf, can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am 16 years old and currently studying in the 11th grade at LANDAU School. I plan to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering in the United States.

- How was your participation in COP29 received?

I didn’t want to attend COP29 just as a volunteer or visitor. I wrote a letter to the founder of the British company 'Extreme Hangout' expressing my desire to present my research and social initiatives at the conference.

Before, we were swimming in the sea; now 'Extreme Hangout' has opened the door to the ocean. Despite reaching out to 17 companies, we didn’t receive feedback from any of them, including local companies.

I am committed to bringing about change and development. I believe that not just children, but everyone, should get involved in such projects. We want the world to see that Azerbaijanis can innovate in the field of technology.

- Can you tell us about the project you presented at COP29?

In December 2024, I began researching climate-friendly solutions in aeronautics and aerospace. Despite my age, I faced several challenges, especially in finding a professor in this field. I created a LinkedIn account and sent over 76 emails to professors. On the 76th trial, Prof. Aniello Daniele Marano, from the Aerospace Department at the University of Naples Federico II, responded.

We started our research, focusing on how aviation and space technologies can benefit the climate, specifically focusing on Urban Air Mobility. Even though we didn't have access to a dedicated lab or research facilities, and were over 3,000 kilometers apart, this did not stop us. We continued our research for five months.

Our project explored Urban Air Mobility—integrating drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into urban environments and ecosystems. We studied how these technologies could be applied in cities, and how young people could contribute to their development. After extensive research with our professors, we concluded that Urban Air Mobility, especially when applied to taxis, vehicles, and public transportation, could bring up to a 30% improvement in urban transport systems.

We also discussed how aerospace technologies like satellites and rockets could be leveraged to benefit the climate.

- Do you have any peers working with you on this project?

Due to the highly scientific nature of the research, I didn’t find anyone my age interested in aerospace. But I believe we can engage other young people by initiating projects based on this research.

With the support of organizations like Azercosmos, the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, and the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, we have begun directing young people toward these projects. Currently, our research is ongoing, and I believe it will not only benefit our country but also have global impact.

In June, NASA selected me as the Local Lead for 'NASA Space Apps Challenge' in Baku. My team includes members aged 16 to 23, with most of them being from Azerbaijan, although we have participants from 26 countries. We are also working to involve young people from districts and rural areas.

We brought the NASA project to Azerbaijan for the first time as youth, and two of our teams got global nominations. The event was challenging, but it taught us the importance of gaining the trust of people and investors. This research is just the beginning. We need to focus on the sustainable development of both the youth and the broader community.

- Have you participated in any other competitions, such as 'Teknofest' in Azerbaijan?

I attended 'Teknofest' as a visitor. Last year, I participated in the International STEM Olympiad, where I won two silver medals in science and mathematics. I’ve also participated in various online Olympiads and NASA challenges on aerospace industry.

I had hoped to attend the 74th International Astronautical Congress, but unfortunately, I wasn’t able to. However, I plan to continue my involvement at COP30. COP29 was a valuable experience in the journey of sustainable development, and I believe we can better represent Azerbaijan at COP30 and similar global events.

- Have you participated in the STEAM Azerbaijan project?

I wasn’t aware of it. I think initiatives like these are not adequately promoted. Many young people, including myself, don’t know about them. It would be great if projects like these were introduced to startups, and if there was clearer communication about how to get involved, as well as a wider opportunity for youth to reach out to local entities for support.

- What should young people do if they want to join your team?

They can visit our ‘Ushaqlarimiza Oyredek’ page on Instagram and click the link in the bio to get information on how to join as volunteers, organizers, or media team members. Our goal is to support young people, including those with limited abilities, and to engage them in research and development activities.

We’ve created this project to break stereotypes and open doors for all age groups to improve their skills and contribute to innovation.

- What are your plans for the future?

I've already started applying to universities in the United States and Europe. I see studying abroad as not only an opportunity for my personal development, but also a chance to return to Azerbaijan and help grow the aerospace industry here.