The Minister made his comments at the Youth Forum of the 10^th Session of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly, which kicked off today at the start of the 13^th Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and will run until January 12 in the UAE capital.

With young people forming a key pillar of the ambitious UAE Energy Strategy 2050, the Forum, which is the first youth platform hosted at the IRENA Assembly, explored the ways in which future generations can take up the fight against climate change and leverage innovation to embrace a clean energy future.

Joining the UAE Minister were His Excellency Francesco La Camera, Director General of IRENA, and His Excellency Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, the President of the 74^th session of the UN General Assembly.

In his opening remarks, His Excellency Dr Al Zeyoudi said: “In the UAE, we realized early on that our young people are the backbone of the environmental sustainability movement. They are the ultimate renewable power that, when properly invested, can fuel the way to a sustainable future.  

“To ensure they are fully engaged in climate negotiations, and prepared to handle the responsibilities ahead, we have launched multiple initiatives to bridge the gap between the youth and policy makers. In addition to articulating their concerns, we believe such efforts will enable them to acquire the skills relevant for the future.”

And addressing the young attendees, he said: “Under the guidance of our wise leadership, we are committed to helping you protect your future and the future of generations to come. I take this opportunity to assure you that we understand your concerns about the future, and encourage you to step up and become climate activists. Your awareness of the challenges ahead and your passion to be part of the solution give us hope for a brighter tomorrow.”

As part of day one of the IRENA Assembly, His Excellency Dr Al Zeyoudi also participated in the 5^th IRENA Legislators Forum, where he pointed out that legislators have the power to accelerate and advance a cleaner global energy mix.

He said: “In the last 10 years, thanks to stronger policies and regulations to support the growth of renewable energy, global capacity has grown by more than 100 percent, from 1.1 million megawatts in 2009 to 2.35 million megawatts, according to statistics provided by IRENA for 2019.”

The Minister added: “Closer to home in the GCC region, over the last five years, regional law makers have proactively implemented robust policies that have resulted in a more than 300 percent growth in renewables capacity. The UAE has played a key role in driving this growth, and today, the country accounts for 70 percent of the GCC region’s total renewable energy capacity.

“While we have undoubtedly come a long way, there is still much work to be done. We must expand the global renewable energy portfolio at double the pace we are currently doing if we are to make notable advances in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. And this will require a firm commitment from legislators to their communities and countries, to implement policies that support, fund, and develop global renewable energy solutions.”