DUBAI, 30th July, 2023 (WAM) — Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment highlighted the importance of collective action and collective finance to strengthen sustainable development and called upon G20 countries to fulfill their commitment to providing the pledged financial support for global climate initiatives.

At the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Ministerial Meeting in Chennai, India, Almheiri emphasized the UAE’s dedication to environmental and climate sustainability. She addressed two key meetings, including the Fourth Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) Meeting, which lasted three days and was held under India’s G20 Presidency. The Ministerial Meeting was attended by Bhupender Yadav, India’s Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and COP28 President-designate, and other distinguished representatives from around the world.

During Session I – “Environment and Climate Sustainability: Climate Change, Ocean/Blue Economy, Resource Efficiency, and Circular Economy,” Almheiri emphasized the UAE’s commitment to address climate change and highlighted the importance of collective action and collective finance. She also mentioned that the UAE recently published a Third Update to its Second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), setting a goal to achieve a 40 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and aiming for Net Zero by 2050. Almheiri stressed the collective responsibility to push for ambitious climate action and urged developed countries to fulfill their commitment to provide the pledged $100 billion in financial support for global climate initiatives.

Furthermore, Almheiri announced the UAE’s commitment to co-leading the Global Green Economy Alliance, which helps countries transition to green economies. She also introduced the COP28 Food and Agriculture Agenda, inviting G20 nations to join the UAE in championing changes for global food systems, aligning with the UAE’s position as Pro-Growth and Pro-Climate. Almheiri presented the Leaders Declaration on Food Systems, Agriculture, and Climate Action, appealing to governments worldwide for endorsement and ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for all.

During Session II – “Environment and Climate Sustainability: Land and Biodiversity, and Water Resource Management,” Almheiri emphasized the importance of ecosystem restoration and biodiversity preservation. She mentioned the Mangrove Alliance for Climate, a joint initiative between the UAE and Indonesia, and highlighted the UAE’s efforts to expand its mangrove cover by more than 100 million by 2030. Almheiri further discussed the significance of water resource management and combating desertification, showcasing the UAE’s holistic approach to environmental stewardship.

These discussions reflect the UAE’s commitment to comprehensive, inclusive, and proactive action to tackle climate change. With an ambitious domestic agenda and contributions to global efforts, the UAE aims to create new industries and protect the natural world by taking climate action.