The pressure is building for the world to tackle the climate crisis and governments around the world are striving to take positive steps in 2023. As such Saudi Arabia is set to build momentum for the upcoming COP28 summit with the Middle East and North Africa Climate Week in Riyadh from October 9 to 12.
“Global Stocktake” will assess the progress made towards realizing the climate changes objectives highlighted in the Paris Agreement. The four day workshop is an opportunity to bring forth MENA’s efforts and approach to climate action and spotlighting the impacts of climate change at the local and regional levels.
MENACW will inspire people and organizations to become part of the momentum, and participate in a collaborative platform where governments and non-governmental organizations address climate change issues.
Saudi Arabia Ambitious Projects
Saudi Arabia has taken swift efforts to help the world tackle the climate crisis, with socio-economic reforms. The kingdom is diversifying its economy away from fossil fuels, which is the major contributor to emissions and climate change. Saudi Arabia is turning to renewable energy and environmental-friendly tourism projects.
Most noted is the country’s King Salman Renewable Energy Initiative with a target of 27.3 GW (20 GW of solar PV and 7 GW of wind) by 2030. Saudi Arabia’s Al Shuaibah PV 1 and Al Shuaibah PV 2 plants in Makkah province will have the capacity of 600 megawatts and 2.031 gigawatts, capable of powering up to 450,000 households.
Marco Arcelli, chief executive of Acwa Power, said securing financing for the project is a significant step towards Saudi Arabia’ clean energy goals. Its aligned with the National Renewable Energy programme – aim to generate 50 percent of electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
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MENACW 2023 amid Climate Change in Arab World
The nearly weeklong MENACW 2023 will help the Arab World take more constructive steps to tackle climate change. Environmentalists describe the Arab world, from the northern parts of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula, as one of the most ecologically depleted regions in the world. This is because of persistent anthropogenic pressures.
The region faces high water vulnerability and low soil productivity. It should be noted that climate change is making this worse. To overcome this, collaborative efforts are needed for mitigation and adaptation. With Arab countries steadily transitioning from oil, it’s to be seen how the region will effectively counter climate change.
