“When we talk about climate change, we must talk about climate justice also. It is important to give a dignified life to every human being, and to recognise that every country has a right to development,” said Bhupender Yadav, Environment Minister

Ahead of COP28 in the UAE, India’s Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasised the critical concept of climate justice. During the final session of the India Global Forum’s Climate for Business (ClimB) Forum, he highlighted the disparity in per capita emissions, stating, “17 per cent of the developed world has a per capita emission of 60 per cent, but what about the 54 African countries? Their carbon emissions are only 4 per cent”. Yadav stressed the need for dignified lives for all and acknowledged every country’s right to development. Looking ahead to COP28, he emphasised the importance of the Global Stocktake’s outcome and urged the adoption of the Global Goal on Adaptation, calling for increased funds for global adaptation practices.

The ClimB Forum, strategically timed on the eve of the COP28 Summit in Dubai, delved into the convergence of climate leadership, clean energy, policy strategies, and green financing. It aimed to promote sustainable economic growth while recognizing the crucial role of technology and innovation in addressing climate change’s far-reaching impacts.

Earlier in the day, Commonwealth Secretary-General Rt Hon Patricia Scotland highlighted the existential threat posed by climate change to vulnerable nations. She emphasised the urgency of adhering to the 1.5-degree target and shared personal experiences, such as the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria in Dominica, to underscore the profound impact of climate change on people’s lives and livelihoods. Scotland questioned the global response to the climate crisis, comparing it to the urgency exhibited during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasising the need for a similar level of urgency, rigour, and vigour in addressing climate change.

Throughout the discussions, challenges related to climate financing and the discrimination faced by developing countries were recurring themes. Speakers emphasised the need to address global inequality in accessing capital and the urgency of fulfilling financial commitments, especially the hundred billion dollars required for climate-related initiatives in developing countries.

The India Global Forum Middle East and Africa 2023 program provided a platform for business leaders, policymakers, and thought leaders from India, the UAE, and Africa to discuss opportunities for collaboration and growth. The discussions covered a range of topics, including trade, investment, innovation, technology, and sustainability, reflecting a comprehensive exploration of key issues shaping the economic landscape across regions.