Muscat: While struggling to overcome the economic and social effects of two years of a global pandemic, the world cannot forget that it continues to face the intensifying impact of climate change. Recovery plans are the opportunity to strengthen the global response, and every country, government, business and part of society must embrace their responsibility to protect our planet.
In November 2021, the UK will chair — in partnership with Italy — the 26th UN Climate Change Conference, COP26. World leaders will meet to agree how to tackle the climate crisis, choosing more ambitious climate solutions, raising investments in clean technology and divesting from polluting industries. Delivering on these goals will make our recovery from Covid-19 one that builds a better future — one with green jobs, cleaner air and increasing prosperity, without harming the planet.
Oman is taking welcome steps to increase the protection of environment and to support a green recovery. The ban on plastic bags since January 1, 2021 is a milestone in the fight against ocean and beach pollution. Investment in renewable energies, with new programmes and initiatives to increase the use of solar panels in residential units as well as the launch of solar parks for power generation, are a clear indication of the positive commitment to shift from traditional fossil fuels to more sustainable models.
There is increasing focus given to hydrogen power generation, with the recent announcement of a global alliance for hydrogen and the institutional support to new investments and long-term projects to develop this source. The move away from dependence on hydrocarbons is a positive step for climate action, while also supporting Oman’s Vision 2040 goals to diversify the national economy. The recent announcement of the intention to provide Muscat with a metro line under the Oman National Spatial Strategy also helps to promote sustainable means of transportation.
In the run up to COP26, the UK and Italy have launched initiatives aimed at raising the awareness and social involvement on the key issues at stake at the conference. The British Council’s “Climate Connection” brings people around the world together to meet the challenges of climate change through arts and culture, education and the English language.
The “Together for our Planet” campaign shines a light on the steps being taken across the UK, showing how people, communities and business are making a difference and inspiring others to do the same. With a focus on kids, the Embassy of Italy proposes a virtual exhibition and a videogame based on the creative universe of the Italian digital film animation “Trash”, highlighting the topics of waste disposal and recycling.
Ahead of COP26, from September 28-30, Milan will host the Youth4Climate: Driving Ambition event: an opportunity for young delegates to put forward ideas and concrete proposals on some of the most pressing issues on the climate agenda. We look forward to the positive contribution of Noor al Hamdan as a participant from the youth of Oman, with her ideas and proposals.
The UK and Italy are committed to putting climate change and the reversal of biodiversity loss at the heart of the multilateral agenda in 2021, including through the UK G7 and Italian G20 Presidencies. Securing a brighter future for our children and future generations requires action from all of us, and we welcome all the efforts made by the Sultanate in supporting this shared goal.
Federica Favi is the Ambassador of Italy to the Sultanate and Hamish Cowell is the British Ambassador to Oman.
