The current climate scenario is one of pressing urgency. Recent data from 2023 shows an unprecedented pattern of escalating temperatures, with each month setting new records. This reality positions climate change not as a looming threat but as an immediate and devastating global crisis.
Reflecting on the insightful words of the late American writer James Baldwin – "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced" – we approach Cop28 in Dubai. This conference is pivotal in confronting a crisis of our own making and offers a beacon of hope for initiating transformative actions.
Evaluating the efficacy of Cops requires a lens focused on long-term commitments rather than immediate spectacle. Since the Paris Agreement, there has been a discernible shift in global warming projections. Initially, temperatures were predicted to rise by over 3°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100 if policies remained static. However, current policies have led to adjusted forecasts, now suggesting a rise of about 2.5-2.9°C. Although these figures still pose significant risks, they represent a marked improvement and validate the power of collective international action.
According to The Economist, a significant post-Paris development is the widespread adoption of net-zero targets. From a singular nation in 2015 – Bhutan – more than a hundred countries now embrace net-zero ambitions. This widespread acceptance signals an evolving global consensus that urgently requires accelerated action.
The private sector is not just about finance. It is responsible for about 75 per cent of global research and development
The recent collaborative statement from US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping further energises this momentum. Their mutual commitment to reducing methane emissions and increasing renewable energy capacity threefold by 2030 exemplifies leadership and co-operation. The UAE, hosting Cop28, aims to establish this event as a turning point for realising these ambitious objectives.
The challenge is to attract adequate investment to meet these goals, as highlighted by Bloomberg. Realising this objective transcends mere commitments. It necessitates a practical overhaul of energy markets, streamlining permit processes, enhancing grid infrastructures, and eliminating policies that favour fossil fuels over renewable sources. It's crucial to acknowledge that Cops, while fundamental, are not panaceas. The growth in renewable energy, for example, is more a result of market forces and technological progress than direct outcomes of Cop resolutions.
The private sector is now called upon to play a decisive role. It must identify and engage in viable, profitable opportunities that align with sustainable development goals.
Looking ahead, there will be another stocktake in 2028, which presents a crucial juncture for reviewing progress and adjusting strategies. To align with the International Energy Agency's net-zero by 2050 vision, a dramatic increase in point-source carbon capture — a 30-fold increase this decade — is essential. Despite the technology currently accounting for only 0.1 per cent of global emission capture, this gap represents not just a hurdle but an opportunity for innovation and substantial investment.
We are also confronting the multifaceted issue of climate justice. Developing nations disproportionately affected yet least responsible for emissions, necessitate both financial aid and technological support. Addressing their needs is not solely an ethical obligation but a strategic imperative for achieving comprehensive global climate objectives.
This week, Cop28 introduces a significant evolution by including private sector and philanthropic leaders in the dialogue for the first time. The Cop28 Business and Philanthropy Forum is a testament to the evolving approach towards climate action. We are equipped with the necessary data, technology and a global framework. What is required now is an unwavering commitment to implementation, investment and innovation. Cop28 is not just another conference; it is a pivotal moment to transform our climate narrative, inspiring lasting and impactful actions in its wake.
The numbers speak volumes: the private sector, a powerhouse of financial might and innovation, invested more than $500 billion in renewable energy and clean technologies in 2020 alone, according to Bloomberg. This investment capability is pivotal for environmental projects on a scale necessary to make a real impact. On the philanthropy front, organisations filled crucial funding gaps, contributing $7.8 billion in 2019 towards climate change mitigation and adaptation, as reported by ClimateWorks Foundation.
Moreover, the private sector is not just about finance. It is responsible for about 75 per cent of global research and development, as highlighted by the Unesco Science Report, underscoring its crucial role in driving sustainable technological advancements. This investment in innovation is critical for advancing sustainable technologies and practices. Further, with their global reach and influence, private sector companies have the unique ability to implement and scale sustainable solutions across international borders, making their role in global climate initiatives such as Cop28 invaluable. Their involvement goes beyond mere monetary input; it's about leveraging their resources, expertise and global presence to catalyse comprehensive and lasting environmental change.
These facts and figures underscore the significant role that these entities play in shaping a sustainable future, making their presence at the negotiating table at Cop28 not just beneficial but indispensable for meaningful progress in tackling global climate challenges.
As we gather in Dubai, let us seize this opportunity with determination and foresight. Our actions today will define our global climate legacy for generations to come.
Scores in brief:
- New Medical Centre 129-5 in 17 overs bt Zayed Cricket Academy 125-6 in 20 overs.
- William Hare Abu Dhabi Gymkhana 188-8 in 20 overs bt One Stop Tourism 184-8 in 20 overs
- Alubond Tigers 138-7 in 20 overs bt United Bank Limited 132-7 in 20 overs
- Multiplex 142-6 in 17 overs bt Xconcepts Automobili 140 all out in 20 overs
Cryopreservation: A timeline
- Keyhole surgery under general anaesthetic
- Ovarian tissue surgically removed
- Tissue processed in a high-tech facility
- Tissue re-implanted at a time of the patient’s choosing
- Full hormone production regained within 4-6 months
Traits of Chinese zodiac animals
Tiger:independent, successful, volatile
Rat:witty, creative, charming
Ox:diligent, perseverent, conservative
Rabbit:gracious, considerate, sensitive
Dragon:prosperous, brave, rash
Snake:calm, thoughtful, stubborn
Horse:faithful, energetic, carefree
Sheep:easy-going, peacemaker, curious
Monkey:family-orientated, clever, playful
Rooster:honest, confident, pompous
Dog:loyal, kind, perfectionist
Boar:loving, tolerant, indulgent
A new relationship with the old country
Treaty of Friendship between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United Arab Emirates
The United kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United Arab Emirates; Considering that the United Arab Emirates has assumed full responsibility as a sovereign and independent State; Determined that the long-standing and traditional relations of close friendship and cooperation between their peoples shall continue; Desiring to give expression to this intention in the form of a Treaty Friendship; Have agreed as follows:
ARTICLE 1 The relations between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United Arab Emirates shall be governed by a spirit of close friendship. In recognition of this, the Contracting Parties, conscious of their common interest in the peace and stability of the region, shall: (a) consult together on matters of mutual concern in time of need; (b) settle all their disputes by peaceful means in conformity with the provisions of the Charter of the United Nations.
ARTICLE 2 The Contracting Parties shall encourage education, scientific and cultural cooperation between the two States in accordance with arrangements to be agreed. Such arrangements shall cover among other things: (a) the promotion of mutual understanding of their respective cultures, civilisations and languages, the promotion of contacts among professional bodies, universities and cultural institutions; (c) the encouragement of technical, scientific and cultural exchanges.
ARTICLE 3 The Contracting Parties shall maintain the close relationship already existing between them in the field of trade and commerce. Representatives of the Contracting Parties shall meet from time to time to consider means by which such relations can be further developed and strengthened, including the possibility of concluding treaties or agreements on matters of mutual concern.
ARTICLE 4 This Treaty shall enter into force on today’s date and shall remain in force for a period of ten years. Unless twelve months before the expiry of the said period of ten years either Contracting Party shall have given notice to the other of its intention to terminate the Treaty, this Treaty shall remain in force thereafter until the expiry of twelve months from the date on which notice of such intention is given.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the undersigned have signed this Treaty.
DONE in duplicate at Dubai the second day of December 1971AD, corresponding to the fifteenth day of Shawwal 1391H, in the English and Arabic languages, both texts being equally authoritative.
Signed
Geoffrey Arthur Sheikh Zayed
Formula One top 10 drivers' standings after Japan
1. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes 306
2. Sebastian Vettel, Ferrari 247
3. Valtteri Bottas, Mercedes 234
4. Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull 192
5. Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari 148
6. Max Verstappen, Red Bull 111
7. Sergio Perez, Force India 82
8. Esteban Ocon, Force India 65
9. Carlos Sainz Jr, Toro Rosso 48
10. Nico Hulkenberg, Renault 34
Heavily-sugared soft drinks slip through the tax net
Some popular drinks with high levels of sugar and caffeine have slipped through the fizz drink tax loophole, as they are not carbonated or classed as an energy drink.
Arizona Iced Tea with lemon is one of those beverages, with one 240 millilitre serving offering up 23 grams of sugar - about six teaspoons.
A 680ml can of Arizona Iced Tea costs just Dh6.
Most sports drinks sold in supermarkets were found to contain, on average, five teaspoons of sugar in a 500ml bottle.
The specs
AT4 Ultimate, as tested
Engine: 6.2-litre V8
Power: 420hp
Torque: 623Nm
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Price: From Dh330,800 (Elevation: Dh236,400; AT4: Dh286,800; Denali: Dh345,800)
On sale: Now
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Volvo ES90 Specs
Engine: Electric single motor (96kW), twin motor (106kW) and twin motor performance (106kW)
Power: 333hp, 449hp, 680hp
Torque: 480Nm, 670Nm, 870Nm
On sale: Later in 2025 or early 2026, depending on region
Price: Exact regional pricing TBA
England XI for second Test
Rory Burns, Keaton Jennings, Ben Stokes, Joe Root (c), Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Ben Foakes (wk), Sam Curran, Adil Rashid, Jack Leach, James Anderson
NEW ARRIVALS
Benjamin Mendy (Monaco) - £51.75m (Dh247.94m)
Kyle Walker (Tottenham Hotspur) - £45.9m
Bernardo Silva (Monaco) - £45m
Ederson Moraes (Benfica) - £36m
Danilo (Real Madrid) - £27m
Douglas Luiz (Vasco de Gama) - £10.8m
The candidates
Dr Ayham Ammora, scientist and business executive
Ali Azeem, business leader
Tony Booth, professor of education
Lord Browne, former BP chief executive
Dr Mohamed El-Erian, economist
Professor Wyn Evans, astrophysicist
Dr Mark Mann, scientist
Gina MIller, anti-Brexit campaigner
Lord Smith, former Cabinet minister
Sandi Toksvig, broadcaster
Why seagrass matters
- Carbon sink: Seagrass sequesters carbon up to 35X faster than tropical rainforests
- Marine nursery: Crucial habitat for juvenile fish, crustations, and invertebrates
- Biodiversity: Support species like sea turtles, dugongs, and seabirds
- Coastal protection: Reduce erosion and improve water quality
The years Ramadan fell in May
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Best Foreign Language Film nominees
Capernaum (Lebanon)
Cold War (Poland)
Never Look Away (Germany)
Roma (Mexico)
Shoplifters (Japan)
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%3Cul%3E%0A%3Cli%3ENever%20click%20on%20links%20provided%20via%20app%20or%20SMS%2C%20even%20if%20they%20seem%20to%20come%20from%20authorised%20senders%20at%20first%20glance%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EAlways%20double-check%20the%20authenticity%20of%20websites%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EEnable%20Two-Factor%20Authentication%20(2FA)%20for%20all%20your%20working%20and%20personal%20services%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EOnly%20use%20official%20links%20published%20by%20the%20respective%20entity%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3Cli%3EDouble-check%20the%20web%20addresses%20to%20reduce%20exposure%20to%20fake%20sites%20created%20with%20domain%20names%20containing%20spelling%20errors%3C%2Fli%3E%0A%3C%2Ful%3E%0A
Jetour T1 specs
Engine: 2-litre turbocharged
Power: 254hp
Torque: 390Nm
Price: From Dh126,000
Available: Now
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Mohammed bin Zayed Majlis
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