COP28, Dubai: GMT’s Roadmap to the 2023 UN Climate Conference

Global Mangrove Trust is set to attend COP28 in Dubai, advocating for mangrove protection and emphasizing its significance in climate change mitigation.

As the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) approaches, the world is once again gearing up for a crucial gathering to address the pressing issue of climate change. COP28, scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 12 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), marks a pivotal moment in the global fight against climate change. In this article, we delve into what COP28 signifies, its importance, and the dynamic role of Global Mangrove Trust (GMT) in this monumental event and the affiliated Hedera Regenerative Finance Forum.

What Does COP28 Mean?

COP28, an abbreviation for the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, serves as an annual meeting that unites delegates from nearly every corner of the globe. While the formal name may be a mouthful, it’s commonly referred to simply as COP. This gathering enables nations to engage in negotiations aimed at establishing global goals for addressing climate change, presenting their individual plans to contribute to these objectives, and reporting on their progress.

Why is COP28 Important?

COP meetings are held in different cities each year to underscore the significance of international collaboration in the fight against climate change. This year, Dubai, UAE, serves as the host city for COP28. The overarching purpose of these meetings is to enhance global cooperation to combat climate change, with specific topics varying from year to year.

Building upon the momentum generated by COP26, COP28 has several key focus areas:

1. Fast-tracking Clean Energy Transition: A primary goal is to accelerate the global transition to clean energy and decarbonize the energy industry, with the aim of limiting global warming to 1.5°C (2.7°F) above pre-industrial levels.
2. Supporting Vulnerable Communities: COP28 aims to address the needs of the most vulnerable communities affected by climate change by developing strategies for adaptation and recovery.
3. Transforming Climate Finance: There is a focus on creating a comprehensive transformation of climate finance, building on the progress made in previous years. This financial support is crucial for helping vulnerable communities rebuild after climate-related disasters.
4. Inclusivity and Representation: The conversations at COP28 will emphasize inclusivity, giving voice to youth and Indigenous communities, and ensuring that the solutions proposed are truly representative of all stakeholders.

Why is GMT at COP28?

Global Mangrove Trust is actively participating in COP28 with its Founder and Executive Secretary, Dr. Ryan Merrill, and Lead Impact Analyst, Mohamed Els. Abdelwareth, representing the organization. GMT is excited to bring the vital issue of mangroves to the forefront of climate discussions. Collaborating with the Forest and Climate Leaders Partnership (FCLP), GMT aims to facilitate financing packages dedicated to protecting and sustainably managing major forest basins, including mangroves. This effort places particular emphasis on the leadership and knowledge of Indigenous and local communities.

In a world where mangroves play a crucial role in sequestering carbon, preserving biodiversity, and safeguarding coastal communities from the impacts of climate change, GMT’s presence at COP28 is an essential step toward a more sustainable and resilient future.

Take Action with GMT

To learn more about Global Mangrove Trust’s initiatives and how you can get involved in the mission to protect mangroves and combat climate change, we invite you to Book a Call with us. Join us in our commitment to safeguarding the planet for future generations. Together, we can make a difference at COP28 and beyond.