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COP28 Dubai: Top Highlights, Speakers, Sustainable Initiatives & More

From speeches to initiatives, a quick recap of last 4 days.

by Deeplata Garde
COP28 Dubai: Top Highlights, Speakers, Sustainable Initiatives & More

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is currently hosting the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) from November 30 to December 12, 2023. The primary objective of the summit is to expedite worldwide efforts in restricting the increase in global temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, as stipulated in the 2015 Paris Agreement. Here, we present key highlights, speakers, and sustainable initiatives witnessed during the ongoing COP28.

Key Highlights From First 4 Days Of COP28

In the initial four days, COP28 generated over $57 billion to support priorities across the global climate agenda, marking the inception of a transformative era in climate action.

The summit introduced eight new declarations that are set to reshape key systems within the global economy. Notably, these include groundbreaking declarations on the transformation of food systems. Furthermore, significant declarations were issued regarding renewable energy and efficiency, along with initiatives aimed at decarbonizing heavy-emitting sectors.

The COP28 Presidency stands out as the first to actively urge participating parties to contribute language concerning all fossil fuels during the negotiation process.

The entire focus of this presidency’s efforts, both ongoing and future, revolves around adhering to scientific principles. At the heart of the COP28 Presidency lies the commitment to keep the 1.5-degree Celsius target within reach. Scientific evidence underscores the imperative to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and reduce emissions by 43% by 2030 to meet this goal.

Key Speakers
Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan

On Friday, President Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates, the host country of the COP28 climate summit, revealed a $30 billion climate fund. The fund, named ALTÉRRA, intends to draw $250 billion in investment by the decade’s end. As outlined by the COP28 Presidency, $25 billion will be directed towards climate strategies, while an additional $5 billion will serve as incentives to boost investment in the Global South.

King Charles III

King Charles, addressing the COP28 UN climate summit, expressed concern about the world’s “vast, frightening experiment” on nature, risking irreversible disasters through climate system feedback loops. He highlighted the urgency as over 100 states commit to transforming food systems. With 2023 as the hottest recorded year, King Charles urged a pause to comprehend the implications of pushing the natural world beyond balanced norms, emphasizing the need for collective action.

PM Narendra Modi

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a speech at the opening session of the COP28 World Climate Action Summit. The summit, occurring in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023, has gathered leaders worldwide to deliberate and propel efforts against climate change. PM Modi underscored the essential requirement for substantial climate financing and the transfer of technology to developing nations. In an interview with the UAE-based Aletihad newspaper, he pointed out that although these nations haven’t been major contributors to the climate crisis, they are enthusiastic about being part of the solution. However, their active involvement depends on gaining access to essential funding and technology.

Rishi Sunak

During the COP 28 summit, Mr Sunak emphasized the necessity for leaders to address climate change using solutions that do not impact people’s finances. On Friday, the government revealed £888m in new green funding. This funding increases the overall package of new green funding announced in preparation for COP28, the UN’s annual climate change conference, to £1.6bn. This total encompasses £500m designated to address deforestation.

Sustainable Initiatives

At the COP28 held in Dubai, the UAE showcased numerous innovative initiatives, underlining its commitment to championing sustainable practices. These initiatives actively promote action against climate change. It prioritises sustainable food practices and fosters the community-level adoption of eco-friendly approaches.

During a groundbreaking announcement at COP28 on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the ‘Green Credit Initiative.’ This pioneering program aims to reshape global environmental policies. Additionally, he inaugurated the official portal of the Green Credit Initiative at COP28. The Prime Minister underscored the shortcomings of the current carbon credit system. It’s influenced by commercial interests and lacks a sense of social responsibility. This has paved the way for a new philosophy embodied in the ‘Green Credit’ concept.

Also Read: What Is Green Credit Initiative That PM Modi Unveiled At COP28 Climate Summit In Dubai?

To Conclude

COP28 in Dubai was pivotal, showcasing a collective commitment to combat climate change. From UAE’s innovative initiatives to PM Narendra Modi’s ‘Green Credit Initiative,’ the summit set a transformative agenda.

These strategies, paired with substantial green funding commitments, signal a shift towards a more sustainable future. COP28 strides towards a world prioritizing environmental responsibility. As the summit concludes, the echoes of these initiatives leave a tangible sense of optimism for a greener planet.

Cover Image Courtesy: COP28 UAE /Twitter

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