First Minister Humza Yousaf warns 'planet at tipping point' as he attends COP28 in United Arab Emirates

First Minister Humza Yousaf will urge world leaders to show ambition, work together and demonstrate radical action to tackle the global climate crisis at COP28.

Arriving in the United Arab Emirates for the global climate conference, the First Minister said Scotland will continue to call for loss and damage funding that prioritises the needs of vulnerable communities and take a lead on addressing the biodiversity and the climate crisis.

During COP28, Yousaf will hold bilateral meetings with international leaders and Global South partners to hear firsthand their experiences and priorities for global action, engage with businesses and organisations, launch the Scottish net zero business programme to tackle the climate crisis and speak at events to showcase how Scotland is taking innovative action to support the drive to a just transition.

Mairi McAllan, cabinet secretary for transport, net zero and just transition, will also attend part of the Conference, with a programme focused on showcasing the progress Scotland is making to deliver a just transition to next zero and continuing work to build renewables and hydrogen industries. She will meet with youth and gender organisations from the Global South.

The First Minister said: “Our planet is at a tipping point, radical and ambitious action is needed to limit global warming to 1.5C.

“The gathering of the global community at COP28 is pivotally important in the fight against climate change. Only by working together can we meet the need and urgency of the task that lies ahead.

“Scotland has demonstrated that we can lead the way on taking tangible steps, however collective action is needed to tackle the climate emergency and address the devastating effects of climate change, in particular loss and damage. We simply do not have time to work alone when it comes to our just transition to net-zero.

“During the next two weeks, the Scottish Government looks forward to sharing our net-zero progress, showcasing our strides in sustainability and engaging in meaningful dialogue on climate action.

“COP28 also allows the Scottish Government to advance international relations and build partnerships. Scottish companies will be attending to enhance Scotland’s global reputation, particularly on renewable energy. It’s also an opportunity to attract investment in strategic net zero sectors in Scotland.”