Scotland’s Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf has called for ‘radical action’ on climate change at the COP28 summit in Abu Dhabi, where he is representing the Scottish Government. He said that Scotland is committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2045 and is leading the way in renewable energy, but more needs to be done globally to avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis.
Scotland’s ambitious climate targets
Yousaf said that Scotland has set some of the most ambitious climate targets in the world, and is on track to meet its interim goal of reducing emissions by 75% by 2030. He said that Scotland is also investing in green jobs, low-carbon transport, nature-based solutions, and climate justice. He highlighted the role of the Scottish Parliament in passing the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2019, which enshrined the net zero target in law and established a framework for climate action.
He said: “Scotland is a small nation with a big voice on climate change. We have shown that it is possible to set and achieve ambitious climate goals, while also delivering social and economic benefits. We are proud of our progress, but we know that we cannot do this alone. We need global cooperation and solidarity to tackle this existential threat.”
Scotland’s role at COP28
Yousaf said that Scotland is playing an active role at COP28, the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which is taking place in Abu Dhabi from November 1 to 12, 2023. He said that Scotland is working with other subnational governments, civil society, and businesses to share best practices and advocate for more ambitious action from national governments.
He said: “COP28 is a crucial moment for the world to come together and agree on a pathway to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, as set out in the Paris Agreement. This is the last chance to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather, biodiversity loss, and human suffering. We are here to support the UAE presidency and urge all parties to raise their ambition and deliver on their commitments.”
Scotland’s message to the world
Yousaf said that Scotland’s message to the world is clear: we need radical action on climate change, and we need it now. He said that Scotland is ready to collaborate with other countries and regions to accelerate the transition to a net zero future, and to support those who are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. He said that Scotland is also calling for more climate finance, especially for adaptation and loss and damage, and for more participation of women, young people, and indigenous peoples in the decision-making process.
He said: “We are facing a climate emergency, and we need to act accordingly. We cannot afford to delay or compromise on our climate goals. We need to transform our economies, our societies, and our lifestyles to align with the science and the moral imperative. We need to show leadership, courage, and compassion. We need to act as if our lives depend on it, because they do.”
