The UAE is aiming to highlight its role in enhancing global climate action and conservation
The UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, has spoken out on the role that the UAE will play in the upcoming season of the UNFCCC.
"Today marks the start of a 100-day countdown to the Conference of the Parties events in the UAE. This is a moment we have been looking forward to, as it highlights the UAE's efforts in tackling climate change on both a national and international scale. We see COP28 in the UAE as a living testament to our achievements and a hopeful glimpse into the future. It represents a crucial juncture in our commitment to assist humanity in confronting one of its most profound challenges," she said.
"As we gear up for COP28, our focus remains on forging a resilient climate and ecological future, collaborating closely with all stakeholders to amplify our conference's global goals. Recent times have showcased the UAE's unwavering commitment to its climate pledges, especially with the update of our Nationally Determined Contributions and the bold target of cutting emissions by 40% by 2030, based on the business-as-usual scenario. This aligns with the UAE's goal of reaching Net Zero by 2050, complemented by the introduction of the National Hydrogen Strategy and the revised National Energy Strategy 2050. Additionally, there has been a surge in collaborative endeavours with the local community and the private sector, all aimed at bolstering the UAE's environmental initiatives, from emission reduction and sustainable food security to biodiversity conservation, nature preservation, sustainable financing, the circular economy, and more."
The 100 days leading up to COP28 will see a plethora of projects announced by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, along with other key governmental and corporate organisations in the UAE, in the context of the UAE's 'Year of Sustainability' in 2023. These initiatives will aim to advance environmental and climatic goals in several fields.
"Collaboration and inclusivity stands at the heart of our endeavours, and it will mould a brighter future for us and the coming generations. As we come together, we will engage in thoughtful discussions, share expert perspectives, and collectively navigate sustainable solutions for the betterment of our environment. We will transform climate change challenges into opportunities and, united in our efforts, we will ensure that COP28 becomes a defining moment in the UAE's and humanity's pursuit of a sustainable future marked by prosperity, development, and global advancement," she concluded.
