During the recent MENA Climate Week, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the designated president of COP28, emphasized the critical need to prioritize adaptation efforts on the global climate agenda. Jaber, who also serves as the UAE's Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, spoke at the opening ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He highlighted the vulnerability of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to the effects of climate change, citing issues like water scarcity, extreme heat, and food insecurity.
Jaber argued that these challenges necessitate placing adaptation at the forefront of climate discussions. Adaptation refers to actions taken to adjust to the current and expected impacts of climate change. This includes measures to improve resilience to rising sea levels, more frequent and intense storms, and altered weather patterns.
Jaber pointed to the devastating floods in Derna, Libya, as a stark example of the kind of climate impacts the region is already facing. He called for increased investment in adaptation efforts, urging الدول المانØØ© (dawlat al-manḥah), or donor countries, to double their contributions. Additionally, he stressed the importance of replenishing the Green Climate Fund, a financial mechanism established to support developing countries in their climate efforts.
Jaber also acknowledged the criticism the UAE has faced for hosting COP28, given its status as a major oil producer. He pointed out that 17 out of the 27 previous COP conferences were held in fossil fuel-producing nations. Jaber argued for a pragmatic approach, emphasizing the need for a just and equitable energy transition while ensuring sufficient resources to meet the current global energy demands. He set an ambitious goal of tripling global renewable energy capacity and doubling energy efficiency by 2030.
Jaber acknowledged the role that the oil and gas industry must play in the transition, calling on them to align their operations with net-zero goals. He expressed confidence that the MENA region, with its increasing investments in solar and wind power, has the potential to be a leader in climate action.
The MENA Climate Week served as a crucial stepping stone on the road to COP28, which will be held in Dubai later this year. The conference is expected to be a critical moment for the international community to accelerate progress on climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. Jaber emphasized his determination to rally world leaders behind an ambitious and comprehensive climate agenda at the summit.