COP28 in Dubai:  the Global Fight Against Climate Change

As global temperatures continue to break records, world leaders gather in Dubai for COP28, the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This government-level conference aims to chart an ambitious path forward in the global fight against climate change.

Significance of COP28

COP28, spanning from November 30 to December 12, is a critical moment for climate action. It serves as a reality check, evaluating progress through a process called the “Global Stocktake.” Over 60,000 attendees, including government delegates, industry leaders, activists, and journalists, will converge in Dubai to address the pressing climate crisis.

FROM PARIS TO DUBAI: EVOLVING CLIMATE GOALS

Since COP21 in 2015, subsequent conferences focused on implementing the Paris Agreement’s key goal: limiting global temperature rise to well below 2°C. COP28 is anticipated to be a turning point, shifting from ‘WHAT’ climate actions to ‘HOW’ they will be executed, measuring progress on mitigation, adaptation, and climate finance.

STAKES AT COP28: THE HEALTH OF THE PLANET

The urgency of COP28 is underscored by the health of the planet. UN Secretary-General António Guterres warns of catastrophic consequences, pointing to alarming indicators like record-low Antarctic sea ice. The decisions made at COP28 will determine the course of global warming and its direct impact on humanity.

STRONGER CLIMATE ACTION: THE IMPERATIVE

The call for stronger climate action is urgent. The UN Secretary-General emphasizes the need for a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, achieving global net-zero emissions by 2050, and a just transition to renewable energy. The COP28 decisions will shape the future trajectory of climate justice and financial commitments.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AS HOST

As the host country, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) plays a crucial role in COP28. Dr. Sultan al-Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology for the UAE, presides over the negotiations. The UAE’s focus areas include fast-tracking the energy transition, transforming climate finance, prioritizing nature and people, and ensuring the most inclusive COP ever.

COP28’S CONTRIBUTION TO GLOBAL CLIMATE ACTION

COP28, eight years after the Paris Agreement, offers a timely opportunity to accelerate climate action. With countries falling short of the Paris Agreement’s goals, the hope is that COP28 will inspire governments to lay out a roadmap for increased ambition and new targets. The conference serves as a decisive moment to turn climate plans into impactful actions and address the escalating climate crisis.