Emirates

‘Cause for optimism on raising ambition at COP28’: Finland’s Climate Envoy

By Binsal Abdulkader

HELSINKI, (Finland) 22nd June, 2023 (WAM) — The developments in global climate action in recent years offer immense optimism, which will reflect in COP28, the UN Climate Change Conference to be held in Dubai later this year, a top Finnish diplomat told the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

Kerstin Stendahl, Finland’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, added that Finland and the UAE will be able to tackle climate change through international efforts, collaboration, and partnerships.

She spoke to WAM during a recent media tour to Helsinki, organised by the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Senior journalists from nine global media outlets, including WAM, from nine countries across the world were invited to the media trip to get familiarised with “Climate solutions from Finland”.

First global stocktake is crucial

As “Finland belongs to a group of ambitious European Union (EU) Member States that is advocating stricter emission reduction targets for non-EU countries in the forthcoming COP28 in Dubai,” the climate envoy explained that “we will be deliberating on the first global stocktake at COP28.”

According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the global stocktake is a process for countries and stakeholders to see where they are collectively making progress towards meeting the goals of the Paris Climate Change Agreement – and where they are not.

“At COP28, Finland, as part of the EU, considers that the global stocktake will be a milestone for implementing climate action to fulfil the long-term global goals of the Paris Agreement,” Stendahl emphasised.

Immediate, ambitious mitigation action

“The first global stocktake has to show that Parties to the Paris Agreement will deliver on the collectively agreed goals. The outcomes need to be most ambitious and concrete,” she stressed.

Hence, the envoy suggested that the global stocktake should include concrete recommendations for enhanced, immediate, and ambitious mitigation action, pre- and post-2030. There should be action on adaptation and means of implementation and support, including aligning global finance flows with these goals, she added.

Immediate, deep, rapid, and sustained mitigation, and accelerated implementation of adaptation actions in this decade would reduce projected loss and damage for humans and ecosystems, and deliver many co-benefits, especially for air quality and health, the climate ambassador explained.

Reasons for optimism

Stendahl is extremely optimistic about global climate action. “There are several reasons one can be optimistic about tackling climate change,” she said, stressing that the Paris Agreement is the first source of her optimism.

The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change. Adopted by 196 Parties at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris, France, on 12th December 2015, the agreement entered into force on 4th November 2016.

Its overarching goal is to hold the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

The Finnish climate envoy pointed out that this agreement provides a framework for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action to tackle climate change.

Technology, renewables, awareness

Technological advancements and renewable energy transition are another positive development that play a crucial role in addressing climate change, she said.

Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, have become more efficient and affordable over the years, making them increasingly competitive with fossil fuels, and accelerating energy transition, the envoy explained.

The increased public awareness and engagement on climate change is another encouraging trend, she pointed out.

“People are demanding action from governments, businesses, and communities to address the issue. This growing public pressure can drive policy changes, corporate sustainability initiatives, and individual actions that collectively contribute to mitigating climate change,” the diplomat said.

Global collaboration, partnerships

Global collaborations and partnerships are also inspiring development in climate action, the envoy said.

“Addressing climate change requires global collaboration and partnerships among governments, businesses, communities, and individuals. Initiatives like the Climate Action Network, intergovernmental collaborations, and public-private partnerships are fostering cooperation and knowledge exchange, enabling innovative solutions to be shared and scaled up more effectively.”

Building resilience

An increased focus on building resilience and adapting to the impacts of climate change is a promising trend, [although mitigation efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are crucial], she pointed out.

“This includes measures such as implementing climate-smart agriculture, enhancing infrastructure resilience, and integrating climate considerations into urban planning. By preparing for and adapting to the changing climate, societies can mitigate the negative impacts and protect vulnerable communities,” the climate envoy said.

Emirates

Hamriyah and Deira ports record AED 12.133b in customs declaration value for first nine months of 2023

Dubai Customs plays a crucial role as the frontline defense for community security, consistently advancing its customs centers to safeguard and facilitate maritime trade. H.E. Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, Director General of Dubai Customs, CEO of
Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, recently visited Creek Customs Center, Deira Port, and Hamriyah Port Customs Center to evaluate progress and oversee ongoing efforts for continuous customs service development. During this visit, several executive directors, department heads, and customs center managers were present.

Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, accompanied by Rashid Al Dhabah Al Suwaidi, Acting Director of Seae Customs Centers Management, conducted inspections at Khor Customs Center, Deira Port, and Hamriyah Port Customs Center. Managers Abdulaziz Ibrahim Al Salman and Majid Salem Al Tawilah provided insights into workflow progress and accomplishments. Over the first nine months of this year, 62,454 customs declarations were processed, totaling AED 12.133 billion, with 19 seizures recorded during the same period. A visit to Hamriyah Port Customs Center showcased an advanced container X-ray inspection device, supporting increased inspection operations.

Subsequently, visits to Khor Customs Center and Deira Port highlighted achievements, including a notable seizure called the “Wheelhouse,” which successfully prevented an attempt to smuggle 243 kilograms of narcotics into the country. Commending customs employees, Ahmed Mahboob Musabih emphasized the pivotal role of maritime customs centers in ensuring community security and facilitating trade. The department collaborates for efficient goods clearance and acknowledges employee efforts
during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to the department’s support for global efforts to revive maritime navigation and international trade.

Musabih clarified that the department’s advanced capabilities in monitoring and inspection enable it to keep pace with the UAE’s rapid foreign trade growth. Supporting Dubai’s economic agenda D33, the department aims to double foreign trade and enhance economic partnerships with key global markets. Efforts to boost customs inspector efficiency continue through training courses, ensuring their ability to thwart smuggling attempts. Continuous development of X-ray scanning
devices and the K9 customs dog unit further enhances contraband control achievements. Rasheed Al-Dabah explained that the forthcoming period will witness the advancement of new initiatives and mechanisms in the realm of inspection and examination. These initiatives are grounded in a forward-looking perspective to introduce cutting-edge technologies utilized in examining maritime transport vessels, wooden ships, and ships engaged in fish trade.

He remarked, “Our endeavors are harmonized to enhance performance in sea customs centers, concurrently focusing on bolstering monitoring, tracking, and technical support activities to yield optimal outcomes through continuous and productive collaboration among all specialized teams within the department. The Customs centers in Deira, Al Khor, and
Hamriyah Port Customs Center shoulder their vital responsibilities in safeguarding society and facilitating maritime trade through Dubai Creek and Hamriyah Port, supporting the ongoing growth of the national economy.”

Emirates

Dubai Customs Hosts Sharjah Housing Delegation to Strengthen Government Communication Ties

Dubai Customs, represented by the Corporate Communication Department, warmly welcomed a delegation from the Sharjah Housing Department. The purpose of the visit was to familiarize the delegation with the duties and responsibilities of the
Corporate Communication Department and its affiliated divisions. The delegation also aimed to explore the awards received by the department, notably the recognition as the Best Government Communication Team in the Sharjah Government Communication Award for 2023.

Khalil Saqer bin Gharib, Director of Corporate Communication Department, along with department managers, extended a cordial reception to the Sharjah Housing delegation, which included Dr. Ahmed Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication, Nada Sivan, Head of the Public Relations and Events Department, and Hamad Saleh Al Hamadi, Head of
the New Media Department. Bin Gharib highlighted the department’s commitment to strengthening communication with government entities to exchange practical experiences and knowledge. The delegation was briefed on Dubai Customs exceptional performance in customs operations and other facets.

The meeting delved into discussions on potential avenues for collaboration, with the Sharjah Housing delegation. Emphasis was placed on the crucial role played by Dubai Customs’ Corporate Communication Department, customs administrations, and centers in ensuring security and safeguarding society. The delegation was presented with an overview of the department’s working mechanisms, awareness campaigns, events, and activities conducted internally and externally, aligning with Dubai Customs esteemed reputation.

Furthermore, the Sharjah Housing delegation acquired an understanding of the best media practices adopted by the Corporate Communication Department, showcasing its outstanding performance in enhancing knowledge and media dissemination to all partners. This has resulted in the department establishing and fortifying relationships with local and international media
entities. The presentation also encompassed the factors contributing to the department’s receipt of the award for the Best Government Communication Team in the Sharjah Government Communication Award.

Dr. Ahmed Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication at Sharjah Housing, expressed appreciation for the efforts of Dubai Customs Corporate Communication Department, acknowledging its excellence and significant contribution to enhancing the department’s standing. Dr. Al Nuaimi affirmed Sharjah Housing’s commitment to fostering ongoing visits and meetings with Dubai Customs, aiming to achieve the highest level of coordination and benefit from the Corporate Communication Departmen’s experience in securing numerous local and international awards.

Emirates

Zayed Sustainability Prize opens submissions for 2025 cycle

The Zayed Sustainability Prize, the UAE’s pioneering global sustainability and humanitarian award, has officially announced that the 2025 cycle is now open for submissions. Submissions will be accepted until 23 June 2024 through the Prize’s online portal. Small to medium enterprises (SMEs), nonprofit organisations (NPOs) and high schools with sustainable solutions are invited to submit an entry for consideration in one of the six categories of Heath, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools. Commenting on the launch of the 2025 submissions cycle, H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, and COP28 President, said: “Since 2008, the
Zayed Sustainability Prize has honoured the legacy of Sheikh Zayed by fostering inclusive sustainable and humanitarian development around the world. In this decisive decade for climate change, these values are more important than ever. I am optimistic that the Prize will contribute to global climate action in line with the UAE Consensus, which will pave the
way toward an effective response to the Global Stocktake decision.” In response to the pressing climate crisis, and to further support the UAE’s efforts to accelerate practical solutions needed to drive climate action and uplift vulnerable communities around the world, the Prize has increased its funds from US $3.6 million to US $5.9 million. The Prize will reward US $1 million to each winner in the organisational categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action. Within the Global High Schools category, which is split into six world regions, each school can claim up to US $150,000 to start or further expand their project. The six world regions of the Global High Schools category are The Americas, Europe and Central Asia, Middle East and North Africa, Sub- Saharan Africa, South Asia, and East Asia and Pacific. The most recent Zayed Sustainability Prize winners were recognised at an Awards Ceremony held during COP28 UAE. To encourage a broader range of organisations and high schools to participate, the Prize will be accepting submissions in multiple languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese. This will ensure that innovative solutions from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds can be recognised. For the Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action categories, organisations should prove that they are improving access to essential products or services in their targeted communities and are able to implement a long-term vision for better living and working conditions. For the Global High Schools category, projects should be led by students, and must demonstrate innovative approaches to address sustainability challenges. The evaluation of each submission to the Prize consists of a rigorous, three-stage process. First, due diligence is conducted on all submissions to ensure that they meet the Prize’s evaluation criteria of Impact, Innovation, and Inspiration. This identifies the qualified entries and results in the selection of eligible candidates. Following this, evaluations are undertaken by a Selection Committee consisting of category-specific panels of independent international experts. From this shortlist of candidates, the finalists are chosen and then sent to the Prize Jury who unanimously elect the winners across all six categories. Winners of the Zayed Sustainability Prize will be announced at an Awards Ceremony during the 2025 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).