The UAE cabinet has recently approved 78 initiatives and projects aimed at addressing environmental issues and preparing for the upcoming COP28 to be held at Expo City Dubai in November. These initiatives encompass a range of strategies such as the reduction of carbon emissions, the regulation of solar energy use, and sustainable tourism, all of which support the cause of sustainable development and eco-friendliness.
The UAE has been a pioneer in the Gulf Cooperation Council in developing a national climate strategy as early as 2017 and committing to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. ADNOC, the UAE’s largest oil exporter, has also dedicated $15 billion to decarbonization projects, including carbon capture, electrification, and CO2 absorption technology.
Read more: Youth-led Road to COP28 opens in Expo City Dubai
The main aim of hosting COP28 is to find solutions that can help communities adapt to climate change and mitigate its impacts. The summit is a continuation of the COP21 Paris Agreement adopted in 2015, which aimed to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. As we approach the seven-year mark since the Paris Agreement, COP28 UAE President Designate Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber reiterated the need to phase out fossil fuel emissions and focus on affordable and sustainable zero-carbon alternatives.
Furthermore, the UAE Cabinet granted approval to the UAE Service Export Development Agenda, which aims to strengthen the country’s education, medical tourism, financial, and Islamic services. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that the Ministry of Economy will actively work on forging international partnerships and developing programs to bolster UAE exports in global markets.
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