In recent years, climate change has been the hottest topic globally, among world leaders, industries, and emerging sustainability innovations.
Climate change poses increasingly formidable challenges and has been identified as the most pressing global environmental problem, with potentially catastrophic consequences for development. Currently, the focus is on strategies for mitigation and adaptation, involving national action and international cooperation.
Qatar, for its part, has affirmed over the years that climate change represents a significant challenge.
At the UN Climate Action Summit 2019, Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani stated, “The phenomenon of climate change is undoubtedly one of the serious challenges of our time. It is a problem that is continuously exacerbating and causing many problems which intertwine in their economic, environmental and social dimensions and has very serious negative repercussions on all forms of life, including human life and on both developed and developing countries alike, especially on the tracks of the sustainable development which all peoples aspire to.”
Qatar’s geographical location is among several countries that could be hitting the wet-bulb temperature “several times over 30 years” by the end of the century if the carbon emissions do not decrease. Climate change affects Qatar in almost all aspects of life and with the population boom, this ‘global phenomenon affects water and food security.
However, Qatar’s significant economic diversification strategy can drive sustainable environmental development, aligning with the country’s sustainability strategy and the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Yesterday, the Minister of Municipality and Environment and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs H E Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaei, stated that climate change repercussions have already begun to affect the world’s economies and human welfare. He added that the phenomenon of climate change is expected to cause more danger and great damages in the future, which makes it one of the most urgent global challenges of this day.
Earlier this month, the Cabinet approved the National Climate Change Plan. This plan highlights Qatar’s commitment to fighting climate change by diversifying its economy, building capabilities, and using its natural resources in the best possible manner. Qatar has already announced its plan to host a carbon-neutral FIFA World Cup in 2022 and has implemented initiatives to improve its public transportation system to renewable energy sources.
Kahramaa has also embarked on mega water reservation projects, particularly the recent Umm Al Houl plant, considered one of the largest in the Middle East and environment-friendly. Through the Food Security Call programme implemented by the MME and the Qatar National Research Fund, the country is developing new planting methods, irrigation systems, and crop varieties in line with global initiatives.
