17 Jan 2024

Reflecting on Dimeta participation at COP28

Dimeta’s CEO, Frankie Ugboma, and Director of Advocacy & Communications, Sophia Haywood, share their thoughts on their impactful participation at COP28, highlighting the role of renewable and recycled carbon DME in the energy transition.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP28, took place from 30th November to 12th December in Dubai, UAE, bringing together over 70,000 participants from across the world. Every year, this global gathering unites world leaders, government officials, business leaders, and delegates for one global mission – to combat climate change. Dimeta participated in COP28 to ensure that the voices of the off-grid sector were not only heard but amplified.
Dimeta CEO Frankie Ugboma, during his participation at COP28, engaged with various senior stakeholders across the industry and was also interviewed by Acumen, where he highlighted the crucial role of renewable and recycled carbon DME in the energy transition and the significance of collaboration to achieve the global climate targets.

 

Dimeta’s Director of Advocacy and Communications, Sophia Haywood, spoke at several cross-sector events, covering everything from clean cooking to decarbonising heating and transport. Sophia also met with various policymakers and government officials at the Blue Zone.

Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge

The Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge discussed at COP28 highlights the global commitment to increasing renewable energy production and improving energy efficiency. This pledge signifies the urgency to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It emphasises the importance of collaboration, innovation, and investment in renewable energy solutions to address the climate crisis and achieve sustainable development goals.
Reaching this goal will require a diverse and multi-approach strategy that caters to different energy needs and sectors. To deliver a just transition, it is imperative to recognise the unique challenges in decarbonisation often faced by the off-grid sector and hard-to-abate industries. Over one billion people live and work in rural, remote areas not connected to the main gas grid. In these off-grid areas, gas and electricity networks are limited, leading to a heavy reliance on high-carbon fossil fuels such as oil or coal or cleaner liquified petroleum gas (LPG) for daily activities and operations such as heating, hot water, or cooking.
Renewable liquid gases such as renewable and recycled carbon DME can play a crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions targets and are a vital part of the solution for these groups. DME is a sustainable liquid gas that can be produced from renewable sources and waste, minimising the environmental impact associated with fuel production. By embracing renewable liquid gases, these sectors can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the overall goal of achieving a net-zero emissions future.

Collaboration at the forefront of COP28

Reflecting on our participation at COP28, we are reminded that collaboration and partnership are foundational elements in addressing the climate crisis. Our challenges are vast and complex, requiring a united effort from all corners of society.
Climate change is not limited to a single sector or geography; it is a complex, interconnected challenge that requires integrated solutions. It’s not just about creating opportunities for change today but also laying the foundations to reach tomorrow’s potential. International collaboration and global collective efforts are crucial to meeting global climate goals. Together, we can explore innovative solutions, overcome barriers, and ensure the widespread adoption of renewable liquid gases, including DME, as a critical component of the global energy transition.
Dimeta remains steadfast in collaborating with partners across industries and sectors, committed to leveraging innovation and pioneering pathways towards a sustainable and resilient future. Together, through strategic partnerships, research and development, and a shared vision, we can shape an energy landscape that is truly sustainable, low-carbon, and inclusive for generations to come.

Frankie Ugboma, Dimeta CEO, published an article in the SDG Action COP 28 edition, where he explored the crucial role of innovation in achieving our sustainability goals. His insightful piece emphasises the urgent need to embrace a multi-solution energy approach and highlights the potential of Renewable and Recycled Carbon DME, as a vital solution for decarbonising the LPG industry and accelerating the global energy transition.