COP28 Dubai, the National Carbon Monitoring Centre (NCMC), actively participating in COP28 on December 2. The NCMC’s participation highlights its steadfast dedication to facilitating Tanzania’s proactive engagement in potential international carbon trading mechanisms under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, with the ultimate goal of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The Centre played a crucial role in the workshop, focusing on reporting carbon stocks and coordinating the intricate Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) processes for the Government of Tanzania.
The National UNFCCC Focal Point (Dr. F. Manyika -donning a black suit) and NCMC representative (Dr. Deo D. Shirima)
The Acting Director of Environment (Ms. Kemilembe Mutasa) and representative of NCMC (Dr. Deo D. Shirima)
Day 1 of the global climate conference in Dubai was a brief but significant one, primarily dedicated to setting the agenda. Commencing at 1 pm local time, the opening session featured diverse messages. The former COP27 President delivered a reality check, emphasizing that the world is not doing enough based on scientific evidence. The gavel was then passed to the incoming COP28 President, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, who expressed optimism but raised concerns by suggesting a continued reliance on fossil fuels. UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell issued a clarion call, urging participants not to return without a deal that would genuinely make a difference.
The key takeaway from the day was the implicit inclusion of the fossil fuel phase-out question on the agenda. Activists, NGOs, and impacted community members echoed this demand outside the opening session, emphasizing the need for world leaders to commit to phasing out fossil fuels. A press conference featuring the Center for Biological Diversity, Greenpeace MENA, Oil Change International, and IBON International was identified as a significant event to watch.
Looking ahead, Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to be in Dubai on the following days. This announcement came after backlash over President Biden’s decision not to attend the climate conference. The Biden administration faces a crucial moment with its climate agenda in question. While historic investments in renewable energy production and forthcoming major rules to reduce methane emissions showcase positive steps, the administration’s simultaneous support for new oil and gas facilities raises concerns. Earthworks, NGOs, and community members directly impacted by fossil fuel expansion aim to engage Vice President Harris and other officials during their time in Dubai, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address the climate crisis and prioritize environmental justice.
For more information, kindly contact,
National Carbon Monitoring Centre (NCMC)
Sokoine University of Agriculture
P.O Box 3009
Morogoro – Tanzania
Telephone: +255 23 2 604648
Fax: +255 23 260 4648
Mob: +255752596503
Email: ncmctanzania@sua.ac.tz
Website: https://www.ncmc.sua.ac.tz
