Navigating Tomorrow’s Climate Frontiers: Insights from 2023 Conferences

I attended three important climate conferences during 2023 that showcased the UAE’s commitment to climate change in the lead up to the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP).

UAE Climate Tech: this event had a specific focus on addressing climate change through innovative technological solutions. The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs from around the world and challenged attendees to collaborate and explore, promote, and exhibit sustainable practices and technologies that seek to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Coming together with my peers at this event was insightful and unique, as it informed us of the need to make real change and the possibilities of doing so. The conference essentially served as a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the promotion of climate change mitigation technologies. By bringing together experts, businesses, and policymakers, it aimed to accelerate the adoption and implementation of innovative solutions to combat climate change and build a more sustainable future. The clear takeaway from the conference was that government, finance and technology need to work harmoniously to ensure net-zero 2050 is achieved. You will find my full event report here.

Net Zero Pathway: this event was hosted by ICE events at Dubai Expo City and it sought to explore the science and economics of net zero, carbon accounting, metrics and measurement and decarbonisation methods and technologies. The event brought together industry experts and fostered conversations around specific themes, including the science and economics of net zero, carbon accounting, metrics and measurement, and utilising climate finance as a catalyst to erode the green premium. The event demonstrated that understanding the science and economics of net zero is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and society to make informed decisions, develop effective strategies, and implement the necessary measures to achieve the ambitions of net zero 2050. You will find my full event report here.

COP28: at this conference, I attended the Global Compact Network UAE, which included two panel discussions in which panellists explored the multifaceted dimensions of transitioning to a sustainable future. Insights from DP World, a financial firm, and UNICEF highlighted inclusive business practices, responsible investments, and the vulnerability of children to climate change. This thinktank gave tangible insight into significant climate change action. The conversation extended to standardising disclosures globally, evaluating companies based on ESG criteria. The panellists explored the importance of the private sector’s role in driving the transition towards a sustainable future and the need for metrics, standards, and reporting mechanisms, with a call for the integration of social considerations. In conclusions, the panellists emphasised the need of stakeholders to consider people, communities, and future generations in working towards climate change. Responsible business practices, inclusive strategies, and collaborative efforts emerged as central themes. As the global community navigates a just transition, diverse perspectives and concerted actions remain paramount in ensuring the net-zero goal of 2050. You will find my full event report here.

Expectation in 2024

The insights from the 2023 conferences underscored the UAE’s commitment to addressing climate change and highlighted key areas for action and collaboration. Looking ahead to 2024, we can anticipate further momentum in several areas:

1. Technology Innovation: Building on the discussions at the UAE Climate Tech event, we can expect continued emphasis on innovative technological solutions to combat climate change. This may include advancements in renewable energy, carbon capture technologies, and sustainable practices across various industries.
2. Net Zero Strategies: Following the Net Zero Pathway event, there will likely be increased focus on developing and implementing strategies to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This could involve refining carbon accounting methods, scaling up decarbonization efforts, and leveraging climate finance to drive investments in low-carbon technologies.
3. Policy Alignment: As highlighted at COP28, there will be ongoing efforts to align policies and standards globally to accelerate the transition to a sustainable future. This may involve discussions on standardizing ESG disclosures, evaluating companies based on sustainability criteria, and integrating social considerations into business practices.
4. Inclusive and Responsible Practices: Expectations for businesses to adopt responsible and inclusive practices will continue to grow. This includes considerations for social impact, community engagement, and equitable outcomes in climate action initiatives.
5. Collaborative Partnerships: Collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society, and international organizations will remain essential in driving meaningful progress on climate change. Look for increased partnerships and initiatives aimed at fostering collective action and sharing best practices.

Discover my insights from H/Advisors panel discussion on businesses’ role in energy transition. Read the full report here.

In summary, 2024 is likely to see continued momentum in climate action efforts, with a focus on technological innovation, net-zero strategies, policy alignment, inclusive practices, and collaborative partnerships. As the urgency of addressing climate change grows, stakeholders across sectors will be called upon to contribute to a sustainable and resilient future.

Al Tamimi & Company has a proven track record assisting clients with climate change projects. Please get in touch with us if your business would also like to make a change.