Restoring freshwater ecosystems, strengthening agricultural systems, and making cities more resilient are the three areas of focus for the climate conference in Dubai, according to the UAE’s Cop28 president. The three goals were revealed at World Water Week in Sweden to address the global water crisis.
Countries attending Cop28 are expected to make additional water-related pledges, according to the conference organizers. On December 10, there will be a full day of discussions devoted to food, agriculture, and water. The Netherlands and Tajikistan have been appointed as “water champions” to help set the groundwork for the summit, which the UAE and Brazil intend to co-host.
A first “global stocktake” where nations evaluate their progress in combating global warming has invited water specialists to contribute. Water is one of four pillars of the UAE presidency’s strategy for Cop28, together with finance, energy, and inclusivity. The UAE presidency is focused on “lives and livelihoods,” and the focus on water is one of those four pillars.