Abu Dhabi: The UAE Space Agency has discussed means of cooperation with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCE) during a meeting between a high-level delegation of the agency and the Minister of Climate Change and Environment. Discussions included the possibility of providing data on local and international environmental issues, as well as exchanging knowledge and expertise in relevant fields, in order to help combat the effects of climate change, said a press release issued by the agency on Monday.
Dr Thani Ahmad Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, met with Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Higher Education and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency; Dr Mohammad Al Ahbabi, Director General of the agency; and other high-level delegates.
The two sides discussed collaboration in providing climate change and environmental solutions, with talks focusing on earth observation and remote sensing satellites. The UAE Space Agency informed Dr Al Zeyoudi of current earth monitoring satellite projects that are able to gather accurate scientific data on the UAE’s environment, including greenhouse gases and other issues related to climate change and sustainability.
The talks also outlined prospects for working with international bodies in which the agency has membership. The agency will facilitate access to global data sets covering a range of environmental issues, in order to inform and advance national efforts to combat the effects of climate change.
Dr Al Zeyoudi said the ministry is cooperating with strategic partners in the public and private sectors to lay the foundations for tackling climate change nationally and internationally. The joint cooperation with the agency underscores the important role of innovative technologies and practices to combat climate change. “Such collaboration across these important areas will allow us to provide cutting-edge solutions for climate change, in line with our national objectives and aspirations,” he said.
Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi said the agency is committed to upholding national policies on climate change, and maximising their efficacy wherever possible. “Space technologies play a crucial role in these plans, as earth observation, remote sensing and monitoring are vital to understanding specific issues, developing targeted responses, and updating policies as necessary.”
The UAE is classified with a high level of vulnerability from the effects of climate change, which include increased temperatures, less precipitation and rising sea levels. As such, the UAE was one of the first oil-producing countries to sign the Kyoto Protocol, and recently launched the National Climate Change Plan that combines previous existing policies into one comprehensive nationwide strategy.
