Abu Dhabi, The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken proactive steps to invest in the future and address climate challenges and their adverse impact on the planet. These efforts include launching initiatives and projects that leverage cutting-edge global technologies, particularly space applications, to tackle climate change issues and enhance environmental sustainability.
The UAE utilizes advanced technologies, space data, and satellites to build a sustainable future while enhancing analytical capabilities to confront climate challenges and make informed decisions. Active participation in various international organizations and agreements seeking effective and comprehensive solutions further strengthens the UAE's commitment.
The space sector, with its advanced satellites and technologies, plays a critical role in strategic decision-making concerning sustainability, food security, urban planning, and the sustainable management of agricultural and water resources. It harnesses the power of space technology to enhance environmental sustainability and develop an integrated system to address climate change challenges.
Key Highlights:
- Integrated Climate Change Response System: The UAE Space Agency has adopted a specific strategy to support various transformational initiatives and projects aimed at mitigating climate change and developing the capacity to study, monitor, mitigate, and adapt to its effects at the local, national, regional, and international levels.
- Space Data Complex: The UAE has launched the Space Data Complex, a unique digital platform that collects and provides spatial data to scientists, researchers, government institutions, private companies, startups, and community members. It serves to develop software solutions for national and global sustainability challenges, particularly in environmental sustainability.
- SAS Program (Space Applications): The SAS program focuses on improving infrastructure to ensure sustainable development in the face of climate-related risks. This program covers aspects like food security, greenhouse gas monitoring, environmental surveillance, and infrastructure development.
- Atlas of Losses and Damages: To reduce climate change risks, the UAE Space Agency has partnered with Planet Labs to construct an Atlas of Losses and Damages. This data-based platform will assist countries in addressing the impacts of climate change, providing early warning systems for various weather-related events.
- Radar Satellite Squadron (Sarb): The UAE's Sarb program aims to develop a fleet of radar satellites that provide night and day data in all weather conditions. These advanced radar satellites are instrumental in disaster response, food security, and more.
- Environmental Change Monitoring: The UAE has utilized its satellites to monitor environmental changes and provide valuable data to research centers. KhalifaSat, the first UAE-made Earth observation satellite, contributes high-resolution imagery for disaster management, urban planning, environmental changes, and agricultural planning.
- DMSat-1: The nanometric satellite "DMSat-1," developed in collaboration with Dubai Municipality and the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, employs space technology and artificial intelligence techniques to enhance environmental monitoring, particularly in measuring atmospheric suspended particle concentrations and greenhouse gas levels.
As the UAE prepares to host the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, it presents an ideal opportunity to strengthen the country's image and commitment to international cooperation and partnerships in addressing climate challenges. Leveraging existing initiatives and projects, the UAE seeks to promote a sustainable future for all, supported by space technologies. The "Impact" pillar of the "National Sustainability" campaign, launched in the run-up to COP28, emphasizes the positive impact of sustainability initiatives across various domains in the UAE.
The UAE's Space Agency, through the Space Data Complex and various initiatives, is building a solid foundation to contribute to sustainable development goals. These efforts align with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to create the most active and best economy globally. Furthermore, the UAE has launched the "Space for Climate Observatory" as a global initiative to coordinate the use of space technology to combat climate change and enhance its effectiveness in addressing climate challenges at the local and global levels.
These initiatives underscore the UAE's commitment to climate action and environmental sustainability, further exemplifying its dedication to global partnerships and solutions for the challenges of the 21st century.