UAE Pavilion At COP29 Showcases Innovative Solutions For Climate Resilience And Biodiversity

The UAE Pavilion at COP29 focused on people, populations, nature systems, and biodiversity. The day began with a session titled 'Mobilising Blended Finance for Plastic-Free Waterways,' where Clean Rivers gathered public and private stakeholders to discuss blended finance's role in maintaining clean river systems globally. Deborah Backus, CEO of Clean Rivers, highlighted the UAE's commitment to water issues and the need for innovative waste management funding.

Ramesh Subramaniam from the Asian Development Bank praised the UAE's leadership in this area. He noted that the bank has already provided around $1.5 billion in blended finance for such initiatives. The discussion then shifted to biodiversity with 'Mobilising the Mangrove Breakthrough,' a joint event by the Mangrove Alliance for Climate and Global Mangroves Alliance. This initiative focuses on conservation, science, finance, and policy.

Razan Al Mubarak, UN Climate Change High-Level Champion at COP28, stated that "The Mangrove Breakthrough has achieved significant momentum since its launch in COP27 – mangroves were a centrepiece at COP28 last year." The initiative aims to restore existing mangroves and secure sustainable financing. Hiba Alshehhi from the UAE emphasised their national climate plans include planting 100 million more mangroves by 2030.

International speakers from Mozambique, Brazil, Indonesia, and Latin America praised progress in mangrove conservation. Stewart Maginnis from IUCN warned that "50% of all mangroves are at risk of collapse by 2050; 25% of them mangroves are likely to go due to the rise in sea levels." Meanwhile, Fujairah Environment Authority launched a book on whales and dolphins in Fujairah and the Arabian region.

The UAE Space Agency shared updates from its Analytics and Solutions data program aimed at climate challenges. In another session, 'Clean Water for All' addressed Africa's SDGs through innovative water solutions. A joint report was launched outlining collaboration strategies for Africa's water issues.

Gender Inclusivity in Climate Strategy

The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment presented a plan focusing on gender-responsive climate adaptation. Amal Abdulrahim highlighted inclusivity as central to their climate strategy. She said it is crucial "to ensure gender responsive and socially inclusive transitions of the economy." The UAE has made efforts to empower women and youth within its climate strategy.

The day concluded with a Women in Diplomacy reception led by Dr Amna Al Dahak. This event celebrated women's roles in accelerating sustainable energy transitions. It marked the end of a full day of programming at COP29 dedicated to fostering inclusive environmental strategies.

With inputs from WAM