Qatar's pavilion in COP29 organises panel discussion on adapting to climate change

Qatar's pavilion at the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP29), currently held in Baku, Azerbaijan, organised a seminar on Qatar's measures for climate change adaptation and resilience enhancement across key sectors of the country.The multi-stakeholder seminar, which included participation from regional and international organisations, highlighted the sectoral strategies of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change that have comprehensively strengthened Qatar's capacity for adaptation and resilience.During the seminar, speakers addressed several critical areas, including urban resilience enhancement, water security in arid regions, protection of coastal ecosystems, nature-based solutions, climate-smart agriculture, and strategies to shield Qatar's hydrocarbon sector from climate impacts.Maryam Kafoud, who serves as head of renewable energy technologies at Qatar General Electricity and Water Corp (Kahramaa), showcased Qatar's efforts in bolstering climate resilience in the energy sector. She discussed the primary environmental benefits of the objectives within Qatar's National Renewable Energy Strategy and how these goals contribute to national environmental sustainability.Chair of the Adaptation Fund Board of the UN Lucas di Pietro presented key adaptation projects funded by the Adaptation Fund, along with the lessons learned that can be applied to other regions facing similar climate challenges. He also elaborated on the fund's unique approach to financing adaptation projects for impactful outcomes.Dr Bingjian Yang, who serves as director of the department of environmental sociology studies and chief scientist at the Chinese research academy of environmental management, highlighted innovative strategies developed by the Chinese Academy of Environmental Research to assist China in adapting to climate change, particularly in regions most vulnerable to extreme weather. He also emphasized the academy's collaboration with international research institutions to enhance adaptation efforts in China and share best practices globally.