Dubai, The 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) has commenced in Dubai, bringing together global leaders and stakeholders to address critical climate change issues. The conference features prominent speakers, including UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Britain’s King Charles, who highlighted the urgent need for action against climate change.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, in his address, commended the establishment of the loss and damage fund, a significant achievement in climate change negotiations. He called upon developed nations to lead the charge in significantly reducing emissions and emphasized the necessity of halting the burning of all fossil fuels to maintain the 1.5-degree temperature limit. Guterres advocated for governmental support in guiding industries towards environmentally sustainable choices through regulation, legislation, fair carbon pricing, ending fossil fuel subsidies, and implementing a windfall tax on profits. He underscored the importance of renewable energy for both planetary health and economic benefits.

King Charles, addressing the summit, warned of the grave economic risks unless urgent efforts are made to restore the environment. He stressed that climate change poses an immediate threat and urged world leaders to intensify their actions. King Charles referenced the devastating effects of climate change worldwide, including catastrophic floods in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, and severe wildfires in North America and Greece. He emphasized that the survival of economies and the planet depends on restoring nature’s balance and harmony. King Charles concluded that collaborative efforts and easier decision-making processes are crucial for sustaining the world.

COP28 serves as a critical platform for discussing and formulating strategies to combat climate change, with a focus on climate justice, financial support for adaptation, and addressing loss and damage. The involvement of prominent global leaders underscores the conference’s significance in shaping future climate policies and actions.