Guyana is set to participate in the 28th UN Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates with a focus on two major issues.
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo highlighted that the country will advocate for the role of forests in achieving net zero and support a just transition from fossil fuel to clean energy.
Despite being an oil-producing nation, Guyana supports a reduction in global fossil fuel production subsidies and advocates for early decarbonization.
The government emphasizes a just transition that involves incentives to introduce renewable energy at scale to meet global energy demand.
Dr. Jagdeo noted that achieving net zero does not necessarily require a total reduction in fossil fuel but targets specific sources, especially coal.
Forests will be a key focus for Guyana in its efforts to reach net zero by 2050.
The country sees forests as a crucial abatement solution in addressing climate change.
President Irfaan Ali will lead the Guyanese delegation to COP28, scheduled from November 30 to December 12, with a return before December 3 due to concerns related to Venezuela.