TRENDS Research and Advisory has released a new study entitled "Towards an Arab Vision to address Climate Change", as part of its commitment on climate issues. The Study was issued in light of the forthcoming COP28 summit to be hosted by the UAE in November 2023.
The study stated that climate change has become a grave concern for all countries in recent years. This phenomenon has generated crises that left serious effects. It exposed about half of the world's population to serious risks during the past few years and no region in the world has been spared from the adverse impact of climate change. The study indicated that the Arab region is one of these hotspots that brace themselves for an unsafe future a result of the potential threat of climate change.
The study was prepared by TRENDS researchers Aisha Al-Romaithi, Director of Research and Advisory Department and Khaled Ahmed Fayyad, an expert in political and strategic affairs. It addresses the risks of climate change, the strategies and policies adopted by Arab countries in recent years to address climate change. Moreover, the study reviewed the challenges faced by Arab countries in implementing these strategies and covered the positive aspects that Arab countries were able to achieve to overcome the challenges.
Climate action in the Arab region requires significant financial investment by governments, companies and civil society organizations. The study warned that inaction on climate action in the Arab region could come at a higher cost. The study explained the importance of taking certain measures to achieve economic benefits while avoiding risks to environmental protection and conservation.
The study referred to the importance of three main goals namely: reduction of CO2 gas emissions, adaptation to climate impacts and appropriate finance of the necessary adjustments. Adaptation to climate change protect people, homes, businesses, livelihoods, infrastructure and ecosystems. It considers ways to address the current detrimental impacts that are likely to occur in the future.
The study stressed the importance of adaptation to climate change in all regions. Priority must be given to the most vulnerable countries and communities, which do not have sufficient resources to address the risks of climate change. The study noticed that early warning systems for disasters save lives and property. Investing in adaptation involves adjusting to actual or expected future climate change impacts. This may save lives and delivers economic benefits. These systems are cost-effective if they are put in place prior to the onset of climate impacts. The goal is to reduce our risks from the harmful effects of climate change.
The study stressed the need for solutions to include the social dimensions and focus on the possible damage caused by climate change. There is a need for appropriate solutions to prevent recurrence. Human loss has grave consequences for sustainable development processes that primarily seek to preserve and protect lives and livelihood from the adverse disasters associated with climate change.
The study proposed solutions and mechanisms to address climate change, most notably: developing effective international cooperation to improve access to advanced energy services, reducing the rate of carbon emissions, integrating project-based carbon financing that supports the emissions reduction projects and provides financing sources.
The study proposed enhancing the capabilities to assess climate change associated risks and integrate adaptation into all aspects of national planning. It recommended the development of a solid water management strategy. There is a need for diversifying technical partnerships in environmental and climate action cooperation. This would facilitate access to foreign expertise to address the effects of climate change.
The study proposed the establishment of networks for the exchange and monitoring of environmental and climate information with other countries. This networking facilitates access to documented information and data on climate change, which can be made readily available to the general public. The authors recommend scientific and technological research on relevant issues to develop contingent plans and clear finance channels. The study recommends the issuance of national laws in line with the provisions of the Paris Agreement on climate change. This move shall enable the public and private sectors to adhere to the requirements of the Paris Agreement in relation to mitigation and adaptation measures. The move shall raise the level of environmental awareness among different segments of society and create enlightened generations who shall contribute effectively to the protection of the environment.
©2024 Trends Research & Advisory, All Rights Reserved.
