Gulf Climate Action:

The Gulf countries have made sustainable development and climate action cornerstones of their national visions and strategies and have set ambitious targets and deployed a wide range of initiatives. From expanding the generation of renewable energy, particularly solar and nuclear power, to improving energy efficiency through incentives and regulations, to exploring new technologies like carbon capture and storage and hydrogen, Gulf states are relying on a wide variety of initiatives to pursue their climate mitigation strategies. Moreover, Qatar has made substantial contributions to global decarbonization efforts through its export of less carbon-intensive liquefied natural gas. These efforts aim to help Gulf countries meet climate targets while balancing continued hydrocarbon production. Gulf countries have also taken the lead in developing climate adaptation measures. As the region deepens its climate engagement, there is an opportunity to shape a compelling narrative that reflects Gulf perspectives on the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change.

In support of elevating the narrative around climate action in the Gulf and in preparation for the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, the UNESCO Regional Office for the Gulf States and Yemen, and Qatar Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and Qatar Debates will convene a UTalk event featuring two complementary panel discussions. The first panel will convene a group of scholars and policy practitioners from the Gulf and globally to discuss the progress made towards achieving goals and explore policy alternatives for augmenting ongoing mitigation and adaptation efforts, with a focus on the leadership positions the Gulf has taken on climate mitigation and adaptation. The second panel will engage a group of young climate-informed activists from Qatar to discuss climate challenges and solutions from a Gulf perspective.