Qatar Foundation's Earthna and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change encourage dialogue on economic diversification and creating a sustainable impact on Qatar's economy by developing best practices
Doha, Qatar, 16 October 2023: At the opening of the third annual Qatar National Dialogue for Climate Change (QNDCC), on Sunday 15 October, His Excellency Sheikh Dr Faleh bin Nasser bin Ahmed bin Ali Al Thani, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, emphasized that Qatar is fully committed to addressing climate change.
An essential platform for international experts, leaders, and stakeholders to address climate change mitigation, adaptation, and challenges, QNDCC was hosted by Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future (Earthna) – a member of Qatar Foundation – and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Qatar, the French Business Council in Qatar, and Qatar National Bank (QNB) as a strategic partner.
HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change opened the third edition of the QNDCC with a speech highlighting the importance of combating climate change.
“The international community has a responsibility to work towards mitigating the effects of climate change and adapt to it. Qatar attaches great importance to addressing climate change and desertification,” HE said. “Our commitment to environmental protection dates back a quarter of a century when Qatar ratified the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in 1996.”
Dr Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive Director of Earthna, emphasized the importance of facilitating multisectoral discussion in addressing the climate crisis. He said, “At Earthna, we aim to be a convenor of climate change thinking and action in Qatar and other hot and arid countries. We do this by building and facilitating collaborative platforms that unite a diverse community of experts, comprising technical and research professionals, government entities, businesses, international institutions, and civil society.” He added, “Through thoughtful discussions, collaboration on initiatives, and sharing knowledge, QNDCC aims to inspire positive action and drive tangible outcomes for climate change mitigation and adaptation in Qatar.”
The first session of QNDCC explored “Innovations in Climate Change”, with expert comments from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Qatar University. Panellists highlighted the importance of innovation in addressing climate change, exploring technological advancements, sustainable practices, and policies to improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance climate resilience.
The second session explored the need for economic diversification and sustainable transition for Qatar's economy. Experts and leaders discussed strategies for diversification in line with global sustainability goals and Qatar National Vision 2030, focusing on green finance, renewable energy, eco-friendly urban planning, and circular economy integration.
The first day ended with a session that addressed clean water access and food security in Qatar, seeking sustainable solutions through innovative strategies, efficient water management, local agriculture, and climate change adaptation. Panellists from the Ministry of Municipality and Hamad bin Khalifa University (HBKU) took part in the discussion.
During the program, Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) announced the inaugural QFFD Sustainability Award winner, Mr. Salah El Sadi, and his groundbreaking project, the Blue Filter. Based in Gaza, Mr. El Sadi's initiative has transformed the landscape of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. This award recognized pioneering sustainability initiatives from the Least Developed Countries, with a special focus on food security.
Day two of QNDCC focussed on three critical topics at the intersection of climate action and sustainable development. In the session titled "Sustainable Transportation – Public Transport Infrastructure, Alternative Fuels, EVs and Logistics”, experts explored electric vehicle adoption, public transport infrastructure and integration, and the need for “greening” logistics to reduce emissions and enhance urban liveability.
The "AI Solutions to Combat Climate Change" session saw AI researchers and organizational experts discuss AI's potential in automated data collection, climate modelling, renewable energy optimization, and disaster response while addressing ethical considerations in AI deployment for climate action.
The event’s final session, titled "Green & Sustainable Finance Products and Investments," discussed innovative financial products and investment strategies, such as green bonds and sustainable investment funds, to mobilize capital for environmentally impactful projects. These discussions aimed to inspire collaborations and investments in transformative solutions for a more sustainable and resilient future, aligning with climate goals and fostering economic growth. Panellists included representatives from QNB and HBKU.
The outcomes from QNDCC regarding Qatar's future climate action strategies will play a pivotal role in shaping the nation's collective approach to the issue of sustainability at the local and international levels. Locally, the takeaways will inform and develop sustainability and environmentally focused policies and best practices. At a global level, they will inform Qatar’s participation in the upcoming annual UN Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP28), scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates in December 2023.