Environmental Studies and Planning Section of the Environment Department of
Dubai Municipality recently organized a seminar on the use of refrigerants and
regulatory policies in line with the decisions of the UNEP.
The seminar was attended by a number of government department coordinators
and owners of big trading agencies in Dubai, who use refrigerants. The subject of the
seminar revolved around the theme of the International Day for the Preservation of
Ozone Layer, "Ozone layer protection: governance and compliance at their best."
The seminar was chaired by Eng. Ahmed Abdullah Al Jasmi, Head of Environmental
Studies and Planning Section, who initiated the dialogue by stressing the continued
and strong commitment of the Municipality to strengthen communication with
all segments of society and adhering to environmental standards that constitute a
major part of its duties.
Eng. Narciso Zacarias, Specialist in environmental management in the Environment
Department briefed the participants on the latest timetable for the phasing out
of ozone-depleting substances and actions taken by the Environment Department
against improper disposal of empty containers and leakage control methods of
refrigeration equipments during maintenance operations and the mechanism of
reduction of these irregularities.
He also shed light on the Montreal Protocol for the application of operations to
accelerate the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances and appropriate ways
to control them, in addition to the continued commitment by the country, which
sought to limit and control this issue through multiple mechanisms.
During the presentation Zacarias, who emphasized the vital role played by the
Environment Department in reducing the increase of ozone-depleting gases in the
emirate, explained that there is a great responsibility placed on the Municipality for
monitoring and controlling the improper leakage in the cooling devices, as well as
to prevent the entry of refrigerants or solvents that are prohibited through various
ports of Dubai.
It was also noted that traders and technicians working in this area must have the
ability to detect ozone-depleting substances and have full awareness of trade names
and chemical composition of the hazardous gases, so that the unsafe leakage in the
refrigeration equipment is controlled and the entry of these materials to the country
is prevented.
He thanked all the participants and the tireless efforts of the Environment
Department in clarifying all the circumstances about this vital issue, and the full
readiness to adhere to the schedule for phasing out the ozone-depleting gases,
according to the decisions of the Montreal Protocol and the United Nations to
protect the environment.
Showing posts with label Climate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Climate. Show all posts
Sunday, December 12, 2010
DM organizes seminar on policy and management on the use of refrigerants
Environmental Studies and Planning Section of the Environment Department of
Dubai Municipality recently organized a seminar on the use of refrigerants and
regulatory policies in line with the decisions of the UNEP.
The seminar was attended by a number of government department coordinators
and owners of big trading agencies in Dubai, who use refrigerants. The subject of the
seminar revolved around the theme of the International Day for the Preservation of
Ozone Layer, "Ozone layer protection: governance and compliance at their best."
The seminar was chaired by Eng. Ahmed Abdullah Al Jasmi, Head of Environmental
Studies and Planning Section, who initiated the dialogue by stressing the continued
and strong commitment of the Municipality to strengthen communication with
all segments of society and adhering to environmental standards that constitute a
major part of its duties.
Eng. Narciso Zacarias, Specialist in environmental management in the Environment
Department briefed the participants on the latest timetable for the phasing out
of ozone-depleting substances and actions taken by the Environment Department
against improper disposal of empty containers and leakage control methods of
refrigeration equipments during maintenance operations and the mechanism of
reduction of these irregularities.
He also shed light on the Montreal Protocol for the application of operations to
accelerate the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances and appropriate ways
to control them, in addition to the continued commitment by the country, which
sought to limit and control this issue through multiple mechanisms.
During the presentation Zacarias, who emphasized the vital role played by the
Environment Department in reducing the increase of ozone-depleting gases in the
emirate, explained that there is a great responsibility placed on the Municipality for
monitoring and controlling the improper leakage in the cooling devices, as well as
to prevent the entry of refrigerants or solvents that are prohibited through various
ports of Dubai.
It was also noted that traders and technicians working in this area must have the
ability to detect ozone-depleting substances and have full awareness of trade names
and chemical composition of the hazardous gases, so that the unsafe leakage in the
refrigeration equipment is controlled and the entry of these materials to the country
is prevented.
He thanked all the participants and the tireless efforts of the Environment
Department in clarifying all the circumstances about this vital issue, and the full
readiness to adhere to the schedule for phasing out the ozone-depleting gases,
according to the decisions of the Montreal Protocol and the United Nations to
protect the environment.
Dubai Municipality recently organized a seminar on the use of refrigerants and
regulatory policies in line with the decisions of the UNEP.
The seminar was attended by a number of government department coordinators
and owners of big trading agencies in Dubai, who use refrigerants. The subject of the
seminar revolved around the theme of the International Day for the Preservation of
Ozone Layer, "Ozone layer protection: governance and compliance at their best."
The seminar was chaired by Eng. Ahmed Abdullah Al Jasmi, Head of Environmental
Studies and Planning Section, who initiated the dialogue by stressing the continued
and strong commitment of the Municipality to strengthen communication with
all segments of society and adhering to environmental standards that constitute a
major part of its duties.
Eng. Narciso Zacarias, Specialist in environmental management in the Environment
Department briefed the participants on the latest timetable for the phasing out
of ozone-depleting substances and actions taken by the Environment Department
against improper disposal of empty containers and leakage control methods of
refrigeration equipments during maintenance operations and the mechanism of
reduction of these irregularities.
He also shed light on the Montreal Protocol for the application of operations to
accelerate the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances and appropriate ways
to control them, in addition to the continued commitment by the country, which
sought to limit and control this issue through multiple mechanisms.
During the presentation Zacarias, who emphasized the vital role played by the
Environment Department in reducing the increase of ozone-depleting gases in the
emirate, explained that there is a great responsibility placed on the Municipality for
monitoring and controlling the improper leakage in the cooling devices, as well as
to prevent the entry of refrigerants or solvents that are prohibited through various
ports of Dubai.
It was also noted that traders and technicians working in this area must have the
ability to detect ozone-depleting substances and have full awareness of trade names
and chemical composition of the hazardous gases, so that the unsafe leakage in the
refrigeration equipment is controlled and the entry of these materials to the country
is prevented.
He thanked all the participants and the tireless efforts of the Environment
Department in clarifying all the circumstances about this vital issue, and the full
readiness to adhere to the schedule for phasing out the ozone-depleting gases,
according to the decisions of the Montreal Protocol and the United Nations to
protect the environment.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Delivers COP16 High Level Statement; Sheikh Abdullah: Extension of Kyoto will restore faith in Multilateral process
ABU DHABI/Cancun, Mexico – 10 December, 2010 – His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, delivered his high level statement at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Cancun, Mexico (COP 16) to a group of over 600 delegates.
His Highness emphasized the urgency of addressing Climate Change and the importance of maintaining the momentum of the multilateral talks in tackling the challenge.
His Highness explained that a joint and balanced effort and an agreement on the second commitment period to the Kyoto Protocol would reaffirm the Parties’ commitment to the multilateral process. He also stressed the importance of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) calling it the most important achievement of the climate change regime so far.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
It is an honor to address you here today, on my first attendance of the Conference of Parties. I would particularly like to extend my thanks to the government of Mexico, who have hosted us here so graciously and who have worked so tirelessly this year in support of the process.
With each passing year, the scale of the challenge presented by climate change becomes clearer. Improving science shows us a litany of receding ice sheets and glaciers; of rising sea levels; and of more unpredictable extremes in weather patterns.
And year after year, emissions continue to rise.
But I am here because we believe that as an international community we still have the capacity to rise to this challenge.
The United Arab Emirates is striving to play its part. In the last few years we have implemented a range of initiatives. To cite just a few, we have begun construction of a major solar power plant to contribute to the 7% renewable energy target we have; we are building nuclear power stations to generate a quarter of the UAE’s electricity by 2020. We are implementing new efficiency standards, developing a major carbon capture and storage project, and building Masdar City, a cutting-edge low-carbon urban center.
We are also financing clean energy abroad. We are major investors in solar power in Spain, wind energy in the UK and more. We are also one of the world’s most generous international donors encouraging climate change mitigation and adaptation. We have given full support to the new International Renewable Energy Agency, which has its headquarters in Abu Dhabi. We have pledged $350 million for renewable energy projects in developing countries, as well as support for small island states.
But we believe that the multilateral process will let us all go further than we can go alone. We need to be realistic about what we can achieve in the near term, but remain optimistic and ambitious about what we can achieve together.
There are clearly some critical priorities for this meeting. We need to ensure a second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol. As countries committed to multilateral frameworks, we must surely agree on the importance of maintaining those treaties that we already have. Agreement of a second commitment period can reaffirm our commitment to multilateral treaties and to maintaining critical mechanisms such as the CDM, which has been one of the most important achievements of the climate regime so far. We also need strong decisions under the Convention, including on a finance mechanism and on technology transfer.
But we also need a longer-term vision. And I am proud to be contributing to such a vision through my participation on the Global Panel on Sustainability, which is being convened under the leadership of the UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon. I accepted this role because the UAE sees the need for a more comprehensive vision for multilateral action based on international law, broad participation, and clear focus on development.
Your Highness, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
The United Arab Emirates is convinced that a multilateral solution to the climate challenge remains feasible. We will not resolve all our issues in Cancun, but we have a real opportunity to put the foundations on a future architecture for international cooperation. We owe future generations no less.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
MEXICO PRESIDENT RECIEVES BRIEF ON MASDAR ACTIVITIES AND UAE PARTICIPATION IN CLIMATE NEGOTIATIONS
Abu Dhabi-UAE/Cancun-Mexico: 8 December, 2010 – The President of Mexico, His Excellency Felipe Calderon received a comprehensive briefing from Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Chief Executive of Masdar and United Arab Emirates Special Envoy for Energy and Climate Change, on the activities of Masdar and the UAE’s ongoing participation in the Climate Change Negotiations in Cancun.
The meeting took place at the ProMexico Green Solutions exhibition during the opening tour conducted by President Calderon where he visited the Masdar stand.
Green Solutions, an initiative by the Federal Government of Mexico hosted on the sidelines of the COP16 conference, offers a platform for the private sector to showcase the leading efforts of the private sector in climate change mitigation, particularly in the fields of trade, investment and technological development.
His Excellency the President thanked the UAE for its effective and engaging contribution to the negotiations at COP16 and applauded the UAE leadership’s efforts towards advancing renewable energy technologies and addressing climate change. He specifically commended the contribution of Masdar for its comprehensive and dynamic approach to addressing the challenges.
President Calderon also emphasized the importance of steering away from what he referred to as the “false dilemma” of economic growth versus climate change mitigation and persevering in the fight against climate change in the face of economic woes. He stressed that economic growth is possible despite the current financial situation. The President also commended the UAE’s commitment to ensuring the success of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), based out of the capital, Abu Dhabi.
Mexico, one of IRENA’s recent member states, joined the Agency July 7th, 2010.
Dr. Al Jaber briefed the President on the nation’s economic diversification plans, which includes fostering human capital and the development of knowledge led industries.
He also provided the President with an overview of the UAE’s approach to energy diversification, explaining: “It is crucial for our future generations that we pursue an energy mix that will help reduce carbon emissions, advance technologies and conserve hydrocarbons for future generations.”
Dr. Al Jaber further explained that a key contributor to the UAE’s energy diversification plans is the Abu Dhabi based Masdar Initiative.
“Through our holistic approach that encompasses research, development, education, investment and deployment of renewable energy and clean technologies, Masdar is playing an important role in achieving Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy goals and economic diversification plans.”
Dr. Al Jaber also took the opportunity to brief His Excellency the President on the delicate state of the negotiations in Cancun and the significant differences in positions between the developed and developing countries as well as the importance of the continuation of the Kyoto protocol. Dr. Al Jaber praised the Mexican government for an excellent job of managing expectations and ensuring a transparent and inclusive process at COP16.
Dr. Al Jaber explained that this year’s negotiations present an opportunity to restore faith in the multilateral process.
"We are optimistic that countries recognize the importance of making substantive progress and are therefore more willing to compromise. This is a signal of the growing confidence in the multilateral system, which is key to achieving an effective solution to climate change. We are strong supporters of the multilateral process and are keen to be part of the solution."
He added: “Reaching important agreements and taking meaningful action to tackle climate change will not be driven by political entities or by private industry alone. A coordinated and cooperative approach by policy and business leaders is a key aspect to achieving a vibrant economy and a healthy environment.”
Earlier in the day, the UAE delegation attended an exclusive briefing hosted by President Calderon that included various high level delegates.
The United Arab Emirates delegation in this year’s Conference of Parties consists of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs Directorate of Energy and Climate Change, the Ministry of Environment and Water, Ministry of Energy, Masdar, as well as the National Center for Meteorology and Seismology, and the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi.
About Masdar
Masdar is Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted initiative advancing the development, commercialization and deployment of renewable and alternative energy technologies and solutions. The company serves as a link between today’s fossil fuel economy and the energy economy of the future - developing the “greenprint” for how we will live and work tomorrow. Backed by the stability and reputation of the Mubadala Development Company, an investment vehicle of the government of Abu Dhabi, Masdar is dedicated to the emirate’s long-term vision for the future of energy.
HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN ZAYED HOSTS RECEPTION DURING COP16 IN CANCUN; Global Climate Change Leaders Attend UAE Hosted Reception
ABU DHABI/Cancun, Mexico – 9 December, 2010 – His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs hosted a reception for notable dignitaries on his arrival at the COP16 negotiations in Cancun.
“Over the past few years the United Arab Emirates has steadily increased its engagement in the international climate talks. We have established numerous initiatives, including the Directorate of Energy and Climate Change within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has allowed us to play a more prominent and constructive role in the climate negotiations” said Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
“Our active participation in Cancun marks a clear signal that the UAE is keen to address the challenges of climate change in a collaborative and collective manner at the highest levels.”
His Highness commended the Mexican government and Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC for promoting transparency to the lead up of the negotiations and emphasized the importance of ensuring that such practice is maintained throughout the dialogue in Cancun.
“A cooperative and transparent approach is critical to achieving a balanced agreement that compliments the needs of developed and developing nations. I would like to commend the COP Presidency and Chair of the UNFCCC for promoting and instigating transparency.”
In addition to H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s strong presence at the COP 16 climate discussions includes H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, UAE minister of environment and water, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, UAE special envoy for energy and climate change and Chief Executive of Masdar, as well as nearly 20 delegates from numerous relevant entities in the UAE.
The reception was attended by various heads of state, ministers and notable guests.
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