COP28 Consensus and Commitments in UAE : What Lies Ahead?

COP28 Consensus and Commitments in UAE : What Lies Ahead?

An Agreement is only as good as its implementation. The historic consensus is only the beginning of the road’
H.E. Dr Sultan Al Jaber, President COP28. COP28 Consensus
December 13, 2023, marks the end of the COP28 in the United Arab Emirates. This UNFCCC global gathering was marked by an incredible effort to address climate change through global collaborative action.

COP28 has reached a consensus, the UAE Consensus, to transition away from fossil fuels, tripling renewable energies, doubling energy efficiencies by 2030, and successfully mobilized over $83 billion within the first five days, setting a new benchmark for climate action.

​This achievement includes several groundbreaking declarations and pledges:

  • The introduction of declarations addressing food systems transformation, health, renewable energy, and efficiency, along with initiatives to decarbonize heavy-emitting industries.
  • A total of 11 pledges and declarations received unprecedented support.
  • On the inaugural day of COP28, an historic agreement was reached to operationalise and capitalise funding for Loss and Damage, with $726 million already pledged to support those most affected by the climate crisis.
  • Additional funding commitments include $3.5 billion for the Green Climate Fund (GCF), $133.6 million for the Adaptation Fund, $129.3 million for the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDC), and $31 million for the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF).
  • The UAE initiated a catalytic fund called ALTÉRRA, with $30 billion dedicated to driving positive climate action and aiming to mobilize an additional $250 billion worldwide.
  • The UAE further committed $200 million to assist vulnerable countries through Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) and $150 million for water security solutions.
  • The World Bank announced an annual increase of $9 billion for climate-related projects in 2024 and 2025, while Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) pledged a cumulative increase exceeding $22.6 billion towards climate action.

COP28-commitments

On the very last day of COP28, December 13 2023, representatives from nearly 200 countries achieved a historic milestone. They reached a groundbreaking agreement to initiate the reduction of global fossil fuel consumption, marking a significant step toward mitigating the most severe impacts of climate change. This unprecedented accord, following intense negotiations spanning two weeks, serves as a potent message to both investors and policymakers. It underscores the global consensus and determination to transition away from fossil fuels, signaling the beginning of the end of the oil age.

These remarkable commitments and initiatives at COP28 signify a significant step towards addressing climate change and fostering global cooperation for a sustainable future.

For EnableGreen, while a significant milestone has been reached with the agreement to reduce global fossil fuel consumption, there’s no denying that a substantial journey lies ahead. The path forward requires comprehensive planning for nations to determine the methods and timelines for phasing out fossil fuels. This endeavor demands a profound shift in the mindset of fossil fuel users, producers, and governments alike. Success is also intrinsically linked to the development and widespread adoption of green technologies. Moreover, it necessitates a collaborative effort from all nations, particularly in supporting and protecting those most vulnerable to the socio-economic impacts of this monumental transition.

COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan next year will serve as the platform for building upon the strong commitments and pledges made during COP28. It will be the planning stage for translating these promises into concrete actions and strategies to address climate change effectively and shift the world towards a better future as collaborative ‘Action Builds Hope’.

Author: Hayatte Loukili

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The Paris Agreement at COP21 identified capacity building as a core challenge our governments, institutions, organisations and civil society need to overcome to build a sustainable world.
Companies need to build business strategies and develop activities to keep growing and create value for their shareholders without exhausting resources or harming future generations. Therefore, engaging in building a decarbonised and equitable economy is at the core of their mission and success in the long term. Their ability to build resilience of human and ecological systems will enable them to navigate this ever-evolving world.
As a recruitment agency, we truly believe, we have a substantial part to play in equipping those thriving businesses with the best candidates to conquer those challenges.
Our purpose is to support businesses in their sustainability journey by connecting them with the best talents in the ESG and Sustainability job market.
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Qualifications and Education: Building Expertise in the Field

In terms of qualifications, academic programs and certifications in sustainability and ESG management have gained prominence. Universities and professional organisations offer courses and certifications that equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the field. Additionally, relevant degrees in environmental science, sustainability, business administration, and finance are highly valued by employers.
The ESG and sustainability job market is experiencing significant growth and offers diverse opportunities for professionals. Dedicated roles, as well as the integration of ESG knowledge into traditional job functions, highlight the increasing importance of sustainability in business strategies. Specialized skills, regulatory expertise, and industry knowledge are highly sought after.
​As companies strive to embed ESG practices into their operations, professionals with ESG expertise will continue to play a crucial role in driving positive change and shaping a sustainable future.

Diverse Opportunities: ESG and Sustainability Across Industries

The ESG and sustainability job market is not limited to specific industries. While sectors such as renewable energy, cleantech, and sustainable finance have a well-established presence, organisations across diverse industries are recognizing the need to prioritize ESG and sustainability practices. From manufacturing and retail to technology and healthcare, professionals with ESG expertise are sought after to drive sustainability initiatives and help companies future-proof their operations.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape: Compliance and Governance Expertise

The increasing regulatory focus on ESG factors has led to a rise in demand for professionals who can navigate the evolving compliance landscape. Knowledge of relevant regulations and frameworks, such as the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is highly valued. This includes expertise in managing ESG risks, conducting audits and assessments, and implementing sustainable governance structures.

Specialised Skills and Knowledge: Key Areas in High Demand

The ESG and sustainability job market also offers opportunities for specialised skills and knowledge. Professionals with expertise in renewable energy, circular economy, sustainable supply chain management, impact investing, and environmental conservation are in high demand. Additionally, individuals with experience in sustainability reporting frameworks, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), are sought after to ensure transparent and standardized reporting.

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Another emerging trend is the growing importance of ESG expertise in traditional job roles. Professionals in finance, legal, marketing, operations, and human resources are increasingly expected to have a solid understanding of ESG principles and their implications for their respective fields. For example, financial analysts need to assess the financial risks and opportunities associated with ESG factors, while marketing professionals must effectively communicate a company’s sustainability initiatives to consumers.

Dedicated ESG and Sustainability Roles: A Shift Towards Holistic Approaches

One significant trend in the job market is the rise in dedicated ESG and sustainability roles. Previously, these responsibilities were often dispersed across different departments, such as corporate social responsibility, environmental management, or investor relations. However, as companies recognize the need for a holistic approach, they are creating specialised positions such as ESG managers, ESG analysts, and corporate sustainability officers. These roles focus on integrating ESG considerations into business strategies, measuring and reporting on sustainability performance, and engaging with stakeholders.

ESG and Sustainability Job Market Trends

The ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and sustainability integration job market has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years. As companies worldwide recognize the importance of incorporating ESG principles into their operations, the demand for professionals with expertise in this field has surged. This article will explore the evolving landscape of the ESG and sustainability job market, highlighting key trends and opportunities.
The integration of ESG and sustainability practices into business strategies has become a top priority for organisations across industries. This shift is driven by various factors, including the increasing awareness of climate change, social justice issues, and corporate governance standards. As a result, companies are actively seeking professionals who can navigate the complexities of ESG and sustainability and drive positive change within their organizations.
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