A problem as pressing as climate change needs concerted efforts among governments, the private sector and the public. And COP28 is a significant conference that aims to transform the world’s collective commitment to combating the issue into tangible results. In particular, COP28 Green Zone serves as a free-for-public space that features a vibrant ecosystem of insightful talks, meaningful technologies and interactive exhibits aimed to raise awareness and drive action.
What is the Green Zone?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the host of this year’s COP28, taking place from November 30 to December 12 in Expo City Dubai.
While the Blue Zone is exclusive to parties, world leaders, media representatives and other accredited participants, the COP28 Green Zone is open to the public. The former is the official avenue for making climate negotiations and discussing solutions. On the other hand, the latter features 10 themed hubs that serve as a dynamic platform for learning and dialogue.
According to COP28’s official site, “With an all-hands-on-deck approach, [the Green Zone] will accelerate the energy transition, building upon a legacy of driving impactful initiatives and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
“COP28’s mission in the Green Zone is to translate insights and ideas into meaningful impact,” it further stated.
Who can attend Green Zone activities?
The COP28 Green Zone welcomes the public, including families, tourists and climate stalwarts — on top of Blue Zone delegates. Simply put, it is open to anyone interested in climate action.
This zone boasts over 600 events spanning climate change, sustainability, innovation, technology and education. Additionally, it includes a fully operational Expo City Farm and offers opportunities for youth and indigenous voices. It also features exhibits by 200 private companies and civil society groups, showcasing innovative climate solutions and cutting-edge technologies.
Green Zone itineraries
The vast number of activities happening in the Green Zone can be overwhelming. Organizers have put together guided itineraries to help visitors navigate the activity-packed event. For example, people can try the Sustainability Itinerary for inspiration on how to live a greener life.
Alternatively, the Education and Youth Itinerary is best for finding out how the energy of young people is being harnessed for good. Or check out the Technology and Innovation Itinerary if you are fascinated by all things to do with green tech.
For people with little ones, the COP28 For Families Itinerary will cater for all your needs. But if you only have two hours, the Equality and Inclusivity Itinerary has you covered.
Must-see COP28 Green Zone activities
The Green Zone officially opened on December 3, Sunday. It will continue to be operational until December 12, Monday, coinciding with the conclusion of the whole conference. Here are five of the zone’s must-attend events.
1. Empowering Arab Content Creators on Sustainability Engagement
- Date and Time: December 7, 18:40-19:10
- Venue/Hub: Actionist Hub
Organized by the Arab Youth Center and Unilever, this discussion will revolve around a recent research study strategically designed to empower Arab content creators on sustainability engagement. This event aspires to underscore the role of content creation in raising sustainability awareness, especially within the Arab context.
2. Technology Without Borders – Closing the Gap Between the Global North and South
- Date and Time: December 8, 15:25-16:00
- Venue/Hub: Technology and Innovation Stage
Led by the Net Zero Technology Center, this session will navigate the importance of global collaboration in technology transfer. Participants can gain insights into how technology and entrepreneurship can transcend borders, promoting knowledge exchange, innovation and sustainability in both the Global North and South.
3. Global Gender Stocktake
- Date and Time: December 9, 11:30-13:00
- Venue/Hub: B8: Plenaries & Meeting Rooms – Presidency Roundtable – Al Saih
The Global Stocktake (GST) assesses how countries and stakeholders are progressing together on the goals of the Paris Climate Change Agreement. As this particular activity aims to highlight, GST not only has the potential to advance climate action but also to promote gender-just climate policies. Specifically, the event will use data from the Global Conference on Gender-Environment Statistics — and emphasize the importance of such data in supporting the implementation of the Gender-Just Transition Partnership.
4. Greening the Humanitarian Response: A Sustainable, Resilient, and Accountable Approach in Displacement Settings
- Date and Time: December 10, 10:00-11:30
- Venue/Hub: The Women’s Pavilion – Humanitarian Hub
This event will tackle how several climate-related initiatives within the humanitarian context can collectively address challenges related to natural resource management. It will also shed light on how to mitigate multiple risks, improve energy access, and address the complexities of displacement. This multidisciplinary dialogue will include perspectives from various international organizations and government representatives.
5. How Carbon Credit Trading Will Help Move Dubai Towards Net Zero
- Date and Time: December 10, 16:30-18:00
- Venue/Hub: Energy Transition Stage
Dubai, the city where COP28 is unfolding, aims to be a leader in climate action. This session will particularly focus on that aspect of Duba and explore how the capital market can support the emirate’s goal of achieving 100 percent clean energy by 2050.
Final thoughts
Indeed, a problem as pressing as climate change requires collective action — and increased public awareness about achievable climate-related goals. The COP28 Green Zone serves as a crucial platform for individuals to actively engage in the global discourse on climate change and make meaningful contributions to this vital cause.
If you’re interested in attending any of the above-mentioned activities — or any of the events that will take place at this space — you must secure a date-specific pass to attend. The COP28 Green Zone is free for the public and is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Visiting COP28 is a great way to be involved in climate change action. This is your chance to find out what the international community is doing to mitigate the risks and dangers of climate change. Take inspiration from the efforts of people of all ages and across various backgrounds who are doing their share to help create a more sustainable future for the world.
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