UAE Council For Climate Action Reviews National Initiatives And Prepares For COP29 In Azerbaijan

The UAE Council for Climate Action recently reviewed the progress of national climate initiatives. This was in collaboration with various authorities across the UAE. The meeting also focused on preparations for COP29, scheduled for November in Azerbaijan. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, led the third meeting of 2024. She expressed gratitude to council members and teams for their efforts towards a sustainable future.

Dr. Amna Al Dahak stated, "This meeting is particularly significant as we actively participate in important global forums. Our goal is to showcase the UAE's vision for addressing climate change and fostering sustainability. Recent examples include our participation in the G20 Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting in Brazil and our upcoming attendance at the UN General Assembly. Through these platforms, we aim to emphasise the UAE's role in addressing climate challenges domestically and internationally and striving for environmental sustainability."

The council's discussions highlighted advancements in the UAE's Net Zero Strategy 2050. Emphasis was placed on ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to ensure successful project implementation. An annual report detailing progress will be submitted to the Cabinet starting January 2025. This ensures transparency and accountability in achieving climate goals.

Dr. Al Dahak further elaborated on the UAE's climate vision: "The UAE has set a clear vision of achieving Net Zero by 2050, aiming for a sustainable climate and environment. This vision is materialising through concrete projects and tangible accomplishments, that we will seek to expand upon." She added: "Working together through this Council, we are confident that we will continue to implement this vision across all sectors, adhering to our established timeline."

The council addressed legislative needs to mitigate climate change impacts on society and the economy. The aim is to promote sustainable economic growth alongside social well-being. Discussions included updates on carbon market projects and a Carbon Pricing Study. Future work involves comparing carbon pricing mechanisms and assessing their economic implications.

The meeting also covered progress on the National Dialogue for Climate Ambition (NDCA). Fourteen sessions have been held across sectors, with 138 companies signing MOCCAE’s Climate Responsible Companies Pledge. Additionally, they examined phase two of the National Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) System.

COP29 Preparations

Preparations for COP29 were another focal point of the meeting. A strategic plan is being developed to build on last year's COP28 success in the UAE. Coordination with stakeholders aims to align initiatives presented at COP29 under guidance from Azerbaijan's Supreme Committee.

The meeting saw participation from several ministries including Climate Change and Environment, Foreign Affairs, Energy and Infrastructure, Industry and Advanced Technology, Economy, Education, General Civil Aviation Authority, and Office of The UAE Special Envoy For Climate Change.

Stakeholder Participation

Representatives from Abu Dhabi National Energy Company TAQA, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Ajman Municipality and Planning Department also attended. Additionally present were officials from Ras Al Khaimah's Environment Protection Authority and Umm Al Qaiwain Municipality Department.

The council remains committed to demonstrating effective action through ambitious words as part of its historical legacy in environmental action.

With inputs from WAM