The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to host the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28). This crucial gathering brings together nations worldwide to address the pressing climate change issues.
This isn’t just any meeting; it’s a chance to make some real progress in the fight against climate issues. Think of it as a turning point. The action unfolds in Dubai from November 30th to December 12th, 2023.
Get ready for something special – it’s not just a conference; it’s a step toward a greener future for everyone and we will keep you posted!
Leadership for COP 28
Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber is leading the conference as the President-Designate for COP28 UAE. As the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) CEO, he led a $15 billion decarbonisation strategy and has been an industry pioneer in leading renewable energy initiatives.
Youth Climate Champion has been designated to the Minister of Community Development of UAE, H.E. Shamma Al Mazrui. As Youth Climate Champion, she will engage with local and global stakeholders to provide opportunities for the young in renewable energy roles.
Further, H.E. Razan Al Mubarak will be acting as the UN Climate Change High-Level Champion, and she will be mobilising with different state and non-state actors to promote a unified approach to reach global goals on climate change.
H.E. Mariam Almheiri, as the UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, shall support the team of COP 28 and shall ensure that the UAE delivers on its climate targets set out by the Paris Agreement and its Net Zero 2050 strategy.
The Choice of the UAE
The selection of the UAE as the host country for COP 28 is significant for several reasons. Despite being an oil-rich nation, the UAE has proactively diversified its economy and invested in renewable energy. Hosting COP 28 allows the UAE to showcase its commitment to sustainable development and its efforts to transition towards a green economy.
The country’s strategic location also plays a role. The Middle East is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, from rising temperatures to water scarcity. By hosting COP 28, the UAE emphasises the importance of addressing climate change as a global challenge that requires collective action.
Platforms for Dialogue-Blue Zone and Green Zone
With the expected participation of over 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, industry leaders, academics, and representatives from non-accredited delegates and other voice organisations,
Blue Zone is a UNFCC-managed site open only to nation-state delegates, Observers (NGOs, IGOs, UN Agencies), Media and other World Leaders.
Green Zone, on the other hand, is a space managed by the COP28 UAE Presidency, and it aims to offer a platform to non-accredited delegates like youth groups, civil society, NGOs, the private sector and indigenous groups to have their voices heard and to promote dialogue.
Key Themes and Agendas
COP 28 is expected to focus on a range of critical themes, building on the outcomes of previous conferences. One of the central discussions will revolve around efforts to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. Countries will be urged to enhance their climate action plans, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), to align with this goal.
Renewable energy and decarbonisation will also be in the spotlight. The UAE, known for its ambitious clean energy initiatives, will likely showcase its progress. The conference will explore ways to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Will the World leaders commit more this time?
There has been constant criticism of the leaders attending the COP every year for their refusal to commit more to the cause of achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement, which aimed at reducing the increase in temperature to 2°C or 1.5°C by the end of the century. Civil society around the world shall keep an eye on leaders across the world visiting the COP 28 with an expectation of ambitious goals for countries to achieve individually.
Global Decarbonization Alliance
Another highlight of the event is the involvement of industrialists in the meeting. Indeed, the President of COP 28, as previously noted, also serves as the CEO of ADNOC. This holistic strategy, bringing together leaders from the oil and gas sector and high-emitting industries, alongside global decision-makers, holds promise for long-term success. The President’s primary initiative involves encouraging oil and gas companies to commit to robust climate pledges and unite in establishing a Global Decarbonization Alliance.
Conclusion
COP 28 in the UAE holds great promise for advancing global efforts to combat climate change. As nations come together to negotiate and collaborate, the conference provides an opportunity to reinforce the shared commitment to creating a sustainable and resilient future. The outcomes of COP 28 will not only shape the international climate agenda. Still, they will also determine the trajectory of our planet’s response to one of the greatest challenges of our time.
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