UAE Pledges Strong Collaboration With BRICS On Climate Change And Sustainable Development Goals

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, the UAE's Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, actively participated in the BRICS High-Level Dialogue on Climate Change in Moscow on 30th August 2024. The event featured two sessions: one on national efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development, and another on BRICS countries' cooperation in these areas.

During the first session, Dr. Amna Al Dahak highlighted the UAE's pledge to cut emissions by 40 percent by 2030 compared to a business-as-usual scenario. This commitment is part of the UAE's third edition of its second Nationally Determined Contributions report. She stated, "Last year, we announced a nationwide pledge to reduce emissions by 40 percent compared to a business-as-usual scenario by 2030, as outlined in the third edition of the UAE's second Nationally Determined Contributions report."

This pledge aligns with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy. The strategy aims to reduce emissions from an economic perspective and establish clear pathways for various sectors to enhance ambition towards sustainability. Dr. Al Dahak confirmed that the UAE has invested US$50 billion in renewable energy projects across more than 70 countries and plans to invest another US$50 billion over the next decade.

Dr. Al Dahak emphasised the importance of international collaboration, especially among BRICS nations, in developing urgent solutions for climate change adaptation. She underscored cooperation in carbon markets as proposed by BRICS, stating that such collaboration is crucial for addressing global challenges like hunger, poverty, ill health, and access to clean water and energy.

In her words during the second session, "The lack of such cooperation would undermine global efforts to address critical challenges, including hunger, poverty, and ill health, and in enhancing access to clean water, energy, and other essential aspects of sustainable development."

National Efforts and Global Initiatives

The Minister reaffirmed the UAE’s dedication to enhancing its national efforts against climate change while contributing to international initiatives promoting climate action. She said, "The UAE is committed to enhancing its national efforts to combat climate change and contributing to international initiatives in promoting climate action."

The UAE aims through various projects and initiatives to contribute directly towards a sustainable future for both its citizens and humanity at large. Dr. Al Dahak reiterated that cooperation within BRICS on climate change and sustainable development remains a priority for the UAE.

She stressed that fostering a global movement on this critical issue is essential for future generations. The UAE’s strong commitment reflects its broader vision for sustainability and international collaboration.

The dialogue concluded with a shared understanding among BRICS nations about the urgency of collective action against climate change. The discussions highlighted how coordinated efforts can significantly impact achieving sustainable development goals globally.

With inputs from WAM