6th International Conference on Global Warming in Ras Al Khaimah |05 December 2023
Mr Michel
Former President Michel shares knowledge about critical role of oceans in mitigating effects of climate change
Former President Michel delivered a virtual address as a keynote speaker at the Movenpick Resort on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah for the 6th International Conference on Global Warming on December 4, 2023.
This conference is organised by the Ras Al Khaimah Environment Protection and Development Authority in the United Arab Emirates under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member of the UAE and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.
The conference is taking place during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC) COP28 from December 4, 2023, ending on December 7, 2023, and the goal of this four-day conference is to bring together experts from around the world to discuss the latest finds and solutions to help mitigate the impact of global warming on our planet, with a particular focus on Oceans.
In his address, Mr Michel made reference to innovative designs paving the way forward to greener renewable energy, such as using wind to reduce the heavy reliance on fuels in the shipping industry.
He also highlighted numerous local schemes that are restoring mangrove forests and seagrass meadows, therefore creating valuable carbon capture sinks, thus reducing the impact of greenhouse gases.
“The United Arab Emirates, under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has an unparallel record in getting things done and is taking actionable steps to switch to renewable energy. It also focuses on nature-based solutions to contribute towards achieving net zero and strengthening efforts to protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity,” said Mr Michel.
As a long-time advocate of Marine Protected Areas, Mr Michel emphasised the need to allow marine ecosystems to provide its many rippling benefits without the negative impact of human activities. No matter how uncertain and negative things seem in some respects, there are leading countries and good people dedicating their lives to saving our oceans, and in turn saving our planet.
Mr Michel expressed his delight to have worked with ocean champions who have marine conservation at the top of their agenda, such as Dr Sylvia Earle who has devoted her life to raising ocean protection and regeneration awareness, and Dr Enric Sala who has firsthand experience as a National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence and is the founder of Pristine Seas.
“If we are to look forward to a better world, we must all be ocean champions,” said Mr Michel, concluding his inaugural address.