Dubai, UAE – The Maldives has endorsed the Global Cooling Pledge, along with over 60 other countries, to reduce emissions related to cooling. This initiative, led by the COP28 UAE Presidency and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), focuses on promoting energy-efficient and sustainable cooling methods and bolstering international collaboration in this field.

The announcement came during the launching ceremony of the pledge at COP28 on December 5, 2023. The Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, His Excellency Thoriq Ibrahim, participated in a panel discussion at the event, highlighting the Maldives’ unique challenges and needs regarding cooling. Minister pointed out that as country with a warm climate, the Maldives has seen a significant increase in the use of cooling systems, particularly to address heatwaves exacerbated by climate change. Minister also highlighted that as a country that imports 13% of GDP in fuel and most of it is used to generate electricity and cooling, Maldives is glad to have found a solution that can help us reduce energy consumption and achieve energy efficiency. He further emphasized that commitments such as the Global Cooling Pledge are particularly beneficial for the Maldives. Minister requested all countries to help small islands to adapt to climate change and called for more countries to join the initiative.

The launching ceremony of the Global Cooling Pledge was a high-profile event, attended by notable figures including UNEP Executive Secretary Inger Anderson, COP28 President Dr. Sultan Al-Jabber, and U.S. Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry.