Whether working with the City of Bonn, guiding visitors at hotel receptions, supporting the conference at either of the venues or being part of the ‘Ask Me’ personnel, lots of help is needed. Volunteers will also be called upon for registration desk support, working on sustainability projects, note-taking, acting as ushers and room assistants.

But this isn’t just about performing certain jobs for a few days in November. Volunteers will be trained for their specific duties, and they will also receive “targeted trainings” to help provide an understanding of issues surrounding climate change. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), UNV and other key organizations will provide speakers for the training sessions. Volunteers are encouraged to become sustainability ambassadors in their communities to ensure the positive effects continue long after the conference is finished. Whether creating a community garden or coming up with a recycling project, all creative ideas are welcome.

So you are thinking you might be interested in volunteering but wondering what the requirements are? Candidates must be at least 18-years-old and have a working knowledge of English. A good grasp of German or another UN official language is also useful. Those with a background in sustainable development, international relations, law, business or public administration, environmental studies or social sciences are especially encouraged to apply. But UNV is really looking for those who want to make a contribution to climate protection.

Because it is a volunteer position, there is no compensation and volunteers must also pay their own travel and living expenses. For those interested in applying, registration will open on Monday, September 4. Please visit the UNFCCC website: http://newsroom.unfccc.int/cop-23-bonn