Abstract
Extreme heatwaves and rising wet-bulb temperatures would damage the human
habitability of vital urban centers in the Middle East by the end of the 21st
century, according to several published research documents, particularly in
some regions in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This may result
in widespread social and economic disruptions and challenges driven by
climatic change impacts in the rapidly growing urban areas of the Middle East.
Middle East countries expect to face the major impacts of global warming due
to the vulnerability of critical urban systems and infrastructure, and they are in
necessity of developing climate change adaptation strategies to establish more
robust urban centers resilient to climate change-driven events. Social and
economic stability can be preserved by effectively preparing for the impending
risks provided by climate change, allowing growth in a changing environment.
The Qatar Climate Change Conference (QCCC), 2021, addressed key climate
change topics of national importance to Qatar, bringing together high-level
representatives from the public and private sectors. Understanding that climate
change is the most pressing challenge facing the world today, the conference
supports Qatar's ongoing contributions to global conversations around
environmental policy and action.
Hosted in the Education City on the 13th of September 2021, the conference was
organized by Qatar Foundation with support from Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah International Foundation for Energy & Sustainable Development
(Strategic Partner) and ExxonMobil (Gold Sponsor). The conference was held
at a critical time, opening broad discussions about how Qatar can cope with
global climate challenges and thrive sustainable development without impeding
Qatar's hydrocarbon-based industries and economic prosperity ahead of the
United Nations Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP 26) in Glasgow in
November 2021.
Keywords
Climate Change
Mitigation
Adaptation
Climate action & policy
Carbon market and pricing