MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)

As COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan enters its second week, global leaders continue to work to address the urgent challenges presented by climate change.

Aletihad spoke to experts in the fields of energy, sustainability and climate strategy, who weighed in on the UAE's pivotal role in shaping the future of global climate action by offering both bold commitments and practical solutions.

UAE's Leadership in Climate Action
In an interview with Aletihad, Dr. Rahaf Ajaj, Assistant Professor in Environmental Health and Safety at Abu Dhabi University's College of Health Sciences, highlighted the UAE's proactive stance in the global energy transition.

"The UAE has been leading by example with initiatives like the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which targets a clean energy mix of 50% by mid-century. The Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative is another bold commitment, making the UAE the first in the Middle East to pledge net-zero emissions," she said.

Developments like Masdar City also showcase the UAE's dedication to integrating renewable energy and sustainable urban planning, she added.

According to Dr. Ajaj, the UAE's approach demonstrates the importance of integrated policies that align economic and sustainability goals.

"By investing heavily in innovation and clean technologies, the UAE shows that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Furthermore, the UAE's success in fostering public-private partnerships can serve as a blueprint for other nations aiming to accelerate their energy transitions while maintaining economic stability," she said.

Troika Approach
Speaking with Aletihad, Nahla Nabil, an ESG & Sustainability Strategist, highlighted how the UAE is driving forward the global climate agenda beyond COP28.

The UAE COP28 Presidency launched a continuity-driven "Troika" vision with COP29 host Azerbaijan and COP30 host Brazil, to foster cooperation across multiple COP presidencies.

"This unprecedented Troika approach not only ensures continuity but also reinforces the long-term vision and momentum for climate action that began with COP28," Nabil noted.

"Unlike previous transitions, the UAE remains an active player in this Troika, extending its influence and dedication to critical issues beyond its official presidency term. Under this unique structure, COP29 will advance key initiatives prioritised by the UAE, such as climate finance, fossil fuel phase-down, and climate resilience, with the UAE continuing as a driving force," she added.

Nabil further noted that COP29 places strong emphasis on overcoming practical challenges in delivering climate finance to developing nations.

"During its COP28 presidency, the UAE highlighted the importance of accessible finance as a foundation for equitable climate action. Recognising that climate finance is vital for these nations to transition to sustainable energy, the UAE has championed innovative funding mechanisms and public-private partnerships that streamline access to resources," she said.

This approach not only addresses financial needs but also builds a foundation for shared prosperity in a changing climate, Nabil added.

Accelerating Global Shift to Net-Zero 
Dr. Ajaj noted that although the global energy transition has made notable progress, there remained significant challenges, such as the need for sufficient climate financing and the uneven pace of implementation in developing nations.

"COP29 is critical in addressing these challenges. The conference focuses on setting a new climate finance target post-2025 and finalising the rules for international carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. These steps are essential to mobilise the resources and investments needed for global emissions-reduction projects."

Nabil said that the UAE has led by example when it comes to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, through investing in renewable energy through projects like Masdar and its solar ventures.

"As one of the first countries in the region to set ambitious net zero targets, the UAE demonstrates that even traditional energy producers can commit to a clean energy future. COP29 continues this conversation, with the UAE's initiatives providing a model for a balanced phased approach that addresses global energy needs without compromising on climate goals," she added.

Emerging Technologies: Game Changers in the Energy Sector
Dr Ajaj highlighted emerging renewable or low-emission technologies that can transform the energy sector as the world moves towards net zero.

"Emerging technologies like advanced energy storage systems, particularly solid-state and flow batteries, address renewable energy sources' intermittency challenges," she said.

"Green hydrogen is another game changer, offering a clean energy solution for industries that are hard to decarbonise. Lastly, carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS) technologies are crucial for significantly reducing emissions in industrial processes," she said.

Energy storage is often cited as a key barrier to the wider adoption of renewables.

Dr. Ajaj noted that advances in next-generation batteries, such as solid-state and lithium-sulfur technologies, are key to increasing energy density and lifespan.

"Modular pumped hydro storage systems are becoming more adaptable to various scales. Additionally, thermal energy storage systems, which store renewable energy as heat for later use, are highly promising for broader adoption," she said.

Looking ahead, Dr. Ajaj highlighted the critical hoped-for outcomes from COP29 to accelerate the global shift towards net-zero emissions.

These include operationalising the Loss and Damage Fund to support vulnerable countries, establishing a new collective quantified finance goal beyond the $100 billion annual commitment, and finalising robust standards for carbon markets.

"These decisions will ensure equity in the global transition and create transparent, accountable and impactful mechanisms," she said.