UAE committed to 40% emissions reduction, says climate minister

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, has said the UAE is committed to a nationwide pledge announced last year to reduce emissions by 40 per cent compared to a "business-as-usual" scenario by 2030.

The Minister made the comments during the BRICS High-Level Dialogue on Climate Change gathering in Moscow.

Dr. Amna Al Dahak said the commitment "aligns with the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy, which aims to reduce emissions from a comprehensive economic perspective and establish clear pathways for various sectors to enhance ambition and advance towards a sustainable future.”

She confirmed that the UAE has invested $50 billion in renewable energy projects across more than 70 countries and plans to invest an additional $50 billion over the next decade.

Dr. Al Dahak emphasised the UAE’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration, particularly among BRICS countries, in developing urgent solutions to address and adapt to climate change. She also underscored the significance of cooperation in carbon markets, as proposed by the BRICS group.

The minister stressed cooperation in strengthening efforts to confront climate change is an urgent priority. “The lack of such cooperation would undermine global efforts to address critical challenges, including hunger, poverty, and ill health, and in enhancing access to clean water, energy, and other essential aspects of sustainable development.”

She added, “The UAE is committed to enhancing its national efforts to combat climate change and contributing to international initiatives in promoting climate action. Through various projects and initiatives, the UAE aims to directly contribute to achieving a sustainable future for both its citizens and humanity, as a whole.”

The Minister of Climate Change and the Environment reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to cooperate within the BRICS group on climate change and sustainable development. She emphasised the UAE's strong commitment to fostering a global movement on the issue for future generations.