Dubai, 30 November 2023(TDI): Today, the Middle East is hosting its second consecutive United Nations climate conference, with thousands of attendees expected to agree on new ways to prevent global warming by the end of the century.
The UN Climate Change Conference is being attended by around 180 heads of state, 97,000 delegates, experts, observers, and climate activists, as well as over 400,000 UAE residents and environmental leaders.
However, the 28th “Conference of the Parties” is taking place in Dubai, UAE, from today until December 12. The oil-rich country’s commitment to combating global warming, primarily due to fossil fuel usage, remains uncertain, as the world has become warmer since last year’s summit in Egypt.
Also Read: COP28: UN Climate Change Summit to begin in Dubai
According to some scientists, 2023 is already the warmest year ever recorded. The northern hemisphere had record high temperatures this summer, and Brazil, where summer has yet to arrive, experienced unprecedented levels of humidity and heat this month.
Reports suggest that emerging countries, particularly India, are becoming increasingly unprepared, as the monsoon season caused approximately $1.5 billion in property damage this year. In addition, in September, Tropical Storm Daniel brought severe flooding to Libya.
Loss and Damage Fund Agreement
Greenpeace Mena’s executive director, Ghiwa Nakat, praised the loss and damage fund agreement as a crucial first step in providing essential assistance to communities they require.
She said, “We also welcome the UAE’s pledge of $100 million to the fund as every contribution matters to communities suffering from climate-related loss and damage. This is the kind of leadership we expect from the host country and we urge other countries to follow suit.”
Furthermore, “Rich developed countries must step up with major contributions to the new Fund, and polluting industries must also be made to pay. If the COP Presidency can build on this with a consensus agreement on a just phasing out of fossil fuels, COP28 will indeed be a historic event!” she added.
At this year’s UN climate summit, nearly all governments completed the foundation of a fund to help countries cope with climate change loss and damage. Some countries immediately started contributing, despite the small amount compared to the overall estimated demand.
Renewable Energy Initiatives
The Al Dhafra Solar PV Plant, inaugurated by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, is part of the UAE’s strategic plan to ensure energy security, diversify sources, and achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Masdar’s CEO reported that the company has expanded its projects globally over the past 17 years, producing over 20 gigawatts (GW) in 40 countries across six continents and worth over Dh110 billion.
He further explained that these projects aim to reduce carbon emissions by 30 million tons annually, equivalent to powering 5.25 million homes or getting 6.5 million cars off the road.
A Call to Action
Moreover, Sheikh Hamadan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, congratulated COP28 summit delegates on their commitment to sustainable practices and innovative climate change actions and highlighted the UAE’s global leadership in this area.
Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the COP28 president, has expressed his bold decision to engage proactively with oil and gas businesses.
He said, “We had many hard discussions. That wasn’t easy. But today, many of these companies are committing to zero methane emissions by 2030 for the first time. And now many national oil companies have adopted net zero 2050 targets for the first time.
They have stepped up to join this game-changing journey. And I must say, it is not enough. And I know that they can do much more. They can lead the way.”
In addition, the COP28 President emphasized the need for unity despite differences, emphasizing the heavy commitment that needs to be made now.
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