Introduction:
I had a great opportunity to participate in the International Climate Conference as one of the representatives of the Arab Youth Sustainable Development Network, which was held from November 30 to December 12, 2023. The Conference of the Parties is held annually to address the repercussions of the escalating climate crisis. It was initiated in 1992, by the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, organized by the United Nations.
In a demonstration of global cooperation, negotiators from nearly 200 countries acknowledged, for the first time, the need to transition away from fossil fuels. “Although we have not yet turned the page on the fossil fuel era, this outcome is the beginning of the end,” said Simon Steele, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, in his closing remarks in Dubai. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that the era of fossil fuels must end with justice and equality. “Developing countries must be supported every step of the way,” he said in his statement at the conclusion of COP28.
The conference was very important as countries, organizations, and experts gathered to discuss climate change issues and possible strategies to address them. In this report, I will summarize the most important insights and experiences I gained from this important event.
The importance of the conference:
The conference was a crucial opportunity for communication and cooperation between countries and organizations concerned with climate change issues. The importance of international cooperation and joint efforts to confront this global challenge as well as involving youth in the decision-making process was highlighted. A dedicated day was allocated to youth involvement, in which many influential youth leaders spoke with many attending decision-makers. The conference highlighted how youth leaders can impact policymakers, strengthen their roles, develop their skills, and foster collaboration among themselves.
My participation was to share my own insights, opinions, and knowledge, which contributes to raising public awareness and fostering dialogue about climate change and the need for effective action. My decision to engage in the conference reflects my sincere commitment to making a positive impact on the future of our planet and addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.
In addition to my involvement with the Charity Coalition for Humanitarian Relief at the Climate Conference of the Parties, I had the opportunity to reflect on experiences related to disaster risk mitigation in Yemen. We also reviewed two successful initiatives in the cities of Hadramaut and Sana’a.
The main topics:
The conference covered many important topics, including:
- Progress in implementing the Paris Agreement: Global progress in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and the need to increase efforts to limit the rise in global temperatures were discussed.
- How to activate the Loss and Damage Fund: For decades, activists have called for a fund to provide effective remedies to communities affected by the inevitable consequences of climate change such as extreme weather events so they can rebuild their livelihoods. Since COP27 agreed to establish the Loss and Damage Fund, negotiations over the past year have focused on its management and financing. While COP28 has made significant steps in addressing this issue, the funding pledged by some countries is still inadequate to make it effective. Billions of dollars are needed, yet only a fraction of that amount has been pledged.
- Technological innovations: New technological innovations aimed at reducing harmful emissions and promoting sustainable energy were highlighted.
- Adaptation and response: Discussions at the conference emphasized the importance of strengthening the ability of countries to adapt to the expected impacts of climate change and strengthening the global response in cases of climate disasters.
In terms of financing, the funding allocated for adaptation to help countries most in need of assistance fell short, with only $188 million pledged out of the targeted $300 million. More funding is required, especially when many island nations are facing an existential crisis, and the rights of billions of people, often living in marginalized communities, are at risk.
Moreover, for the first time ever, the United Nations Climate Conference (COP28) dedicated a day to discussing trade and its role in global carbon emissions reduction, and how trade can contribute to the transition towards clean energy
Participation of Arab community organizations, youth, and stakeholders:
It is noteworthy that December 10, 2023, was designated as a special meeting day. On this day, Arab civil society organizations and youth had the opportunity to engage in discussions with the official negotiator representing the Arab group, along with other Arab negotiators from all Arab countries.
The large participation of Arab civil society organizations and Arab youth, as daily coordination meetings were held for Arab organizations and Arab youth during the climate conference, led by Mr. Tariq Hassan, representative of the International Youth Council Yemen and head of the Arab Youth Network for Sustainable Development, and Mr. Hamza Daghiri, head of the Climate Action Network in the Arab World. These meetings included the development of a daily work agenda to monitor negotiation progress as well as organized sessions with Arab delegations, the COP Presidency, and the official negotiator representing the Arab group. Additionally, statements stating objections were submitted to the COP Presidency.
Green Zone:
As every year, COP 28 featured both the blue and green zones. The blue zone is managed by the United Nations, and it focuses on climate change issues. The green zone works as a hub for non-governmental organizations, private companies, and civil society. These zones work as the main centers for conference’s activities throughout its duration.
The Green Zone provided a wide space for innovations and initiatives, which demonstrates the best ideas and projects in the world, so that others can learn from and support them. It’s a place where the smart thinking behind new green technologies is on display for everyone to see through interactive exhibitions, art installations, film screenings and more than 300 talks.
Saudi Green Initiative:
The Saudi Green Initiative showed its experiences, future projects, and initiatives that rely heavily on clean energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Among the most important of these initiatives was the seawater desalination plants project. This plant operates using environmentally friendly reverse osmosis technology and relies in its operation on renewable energy sources such as wind, solar power, and green hydrogen. Also, initiatives like the Green Mosques Initiative to plant a 41 million trees. Saudi Arabia also proposed establishing a distinguished global center to improve fisheries productivity and develop fish stocks in the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea.
(Sustainability House):
the Emirati Pavilion shows the transformation that the Emirates has witnessed over the past years and explains the concept of the “city of the future”, as more than 50% of the world’s population lives in cities and this number continues to increase. The vision for the city of the future will take into account its livability, resilience and sustainability. In this city, buildings, landscapes, and environments adapt to meet our needs to ensure everyone’s happiness and satisfaction. The city of the future is designed to empower us to shape our future and live on a sustainable planet.
Conclusion:
The International Climate Conference emphasized the importance of global cooperation to address the challenges of climate change. As a participant in the conference, I realized the scale of the challenges facing us, yet felt optimistic due to the efforts made and the commitments from countries and organizations. The conference also realized the importance of technological innovation and adaptation to anticipated climate changes. The COP28 climate summit in Dubai concluded after 14 days with an acknowledgment of the necessity to transition away from fossil fuels, for the first time.
Based on my experience at the conference, i believe it is necessary to increase global efforts to achieve the objectives of the Paris Agreement and strengthen cooperation among countries to combat climate change. Future solutions must prioritize technological advancements and sustainability, as well as enhancing countries resilience to climate impacts.
My experience at the climate conference was inspiring and reminded me of the importance of urgent action to address the challenges of climate change. There is an urgent need for cooperation and collective determination to achieve positive environmental outcomes. I will do my best to raise awareness and participate actively in global initiatives to combat climate change and preserve our planet for future generations.