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International Symposium on Climate Change and Sustainable Energy-Strategies for the Low Carbon Transition

    International Symposium on “Climate Change and Sustainable Energy

    Symposium Concept Note

    Extreme weather events, including heatwaves, heavy rains, floods, and droughts threaten human health, security, livelihoods, food and agricultural systems, water supplies, infrastructure, and economic growth. Some of these climate change-related events have also caused significant damage and fatalities around the world. Additionally, extreme heat, prolonged drought, increased flooding, and severe storms are occurring more frequently in various parts of the world. According to UNEP, 30 per cent of the world’s population is exposed to deadly heat waves more than 20 days a year . To prevent warming beyond 1.5°C, the world needs to reduce emissions by 7.6% every year from this year to 2030 . Furthermore, it is also worth noting that climatic conditions from rising temperatures that result from climate fluctuations may cause a rise in energy prices and thus have the greatest impact on the consumer price index in low- and middle-income countries .

    The effect of rising sea levels on the Arabian Gulf region can be socially and environmentally devastating. The social impacts of rising sea levels may involve increased vulnerability to coastal flooding and storms, loss of homes, livelihoods, sense of belonging, and destruction of infrastructure. Mitigating climate change is a necessary condition to improve food security, sustain agricultural production, and reduce environmental burden . In addition, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and unsustainable utilization of scarce resources is becoming urgent. Moreover, climate-linked losses may increase production costs and push up consumers' expenses, severely hitting the disadvantaged segments of the population.

    Mitigating climate change presents a significant opportunity to reduce environmental footprints and preserve the environment. The Paris Agreement on Climate Change provides a global framework through which governments are responding to the climate change crisis. In addition, the latest Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and long-term low-emissions development strategies (LT-LEDs) that Parties have submitted to the secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, are critical in forecasting total emissions linked to energy consumption and other sectors such as transport, agriculture, forestry and land use change. However, the accelerating climate crisis requires short-term measures to raise the mitigation ambition, and long-term transition to a low-carbon economy that is responsive to dynamic changes imposed by the emerging crisis. It is therefore critical to discuss the climate change issues from various disciplines to make it more understandable, inclusive, and enhance the policy advise to governments.

    There is evidence in many studies proving that human behaviour and human actions have a direct influence on extraction of resources to support consumption and livelihoods . Understanding how human behaviour contributes to the climate crisis is critical in raising awareness and educating people about the impact of their actions on the environment . Such environmental awareness promotes a sense of responsibility and encourages individuals and communities to make more sustainable choices. Innovative solutions are equally important as they drive progress in areas such as renewable energy, waste reduction, and conservation, and the use of environmentally friendly technology.

    Climate change is a cross-cutting issue: it affects and is affected by a wide variety of sectors such as energy, food, tourism, human health, animal and plant health, ecosystem integrity, wildlife, among many others. Discussing all these sectors in one event is impossible. Therefore, under the broad theme of climate change and the environment, The Social and Economic Survey Research Institute (SESRI), Qatar University will organize a series of annual symposia focusing on a specific sector.

    The inaugural symposium will be held on the theme “Climate change and sustainable energy: Strategies for the low carbon transition”. The energy sector was chosen because the energy sector is the source is about three quarters of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, an accelerated transition to clean energy is critical both for mitigation, as well as for adapting to climate.

    Discussion in the symposium will be enriched by inputs from guest researchers, experts, students, and policymakers from various disciplines. The interactive discussion is aimed at imparting knowledge, exchanging practical experience and ideas on ways to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

    General Objectives of the Symposium

    The symposium will provide a platform for local and international experts to share insights and experiences on climate change and sustainable energy. Specifically, the symposium will aim to achieve the following:

    1. Increase the understanding of researchers and policymakers of the economic impact and political implications of climate change from various perspectives.
    2. Identify the risks and opportunities posed by climate change in the energy sector.
    3. Increase awareness and knowledge of policymakers on policy instruments and tools in the low-carbon transition in the energy sector.
    4. Expand knowledge in behavioural sciences and its application to sustainable energy.

    Interactive Sessions

    1. Energy efficiency and Behavioural Insights

      When discussing climate change, it is critical to understand how human attitudes and behaviours contribute to the crisis. Insights from behavioural sciences could help in explaining the link between human activities and the drivers of climate change. Understanding the factors influencing behavioural change could also open possibilities to design effective policies to mitigate to climate change. A focus on behavioural factors and how people form perceptions about climate change could provide important information for policymakers concerned about the effectiveness of policies in promoting environmentally benign behaviour. Additionally, the behavioural science applied to climate change is an important subject that helps understand the readiness of humans to adapt to mitigation strategies.

      Consumer choices affects the environment in many ways. Insights into human behaviour are critical in the design of effective environmental policies. People make numerous decisions that have an impact on energy consumption. The session on energy efficiency and behavioural insights will provide an overview on how policy interventions could be designed, taking into account knowledge, environmental awareness, beliefs, attitudes and behaviour towards sustainable consumption. It will provide a general introduction to Behavioural Environmental Economics and its application to Energy Economics.

    2. Low carbon transition strategies

      This topic revolves around driving our world towards a sustainable development path through technology. The session will discuss different types of technology for reducing energy wastage, such as smart meters for electricity and water. It will also discuss other innovations for reducing greenhouse gas emissions such as the use of environmentally friendly building materials in the construction sector. The session will be an opportunity to enhance awareness of individuals about innovations and technologies that are practical in promoting sustainable consumption choices. The focus will be on practical examples of policy, strategies and innovations in the energy, transportation, and construction sectors. The ministry of Environment and climate change will share strategies and plan of action to face climate change and reduce its effect.

    3. Climate change and decarbonization strategies from GCC

      The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member countries face existential challenges due to the accelerating climate crisis. Among these challenges are desertification, loss of biodiversity, water scarcity, and rising sea levels. The impact on the Gulf region is worse due to its characteristics such as high temperatures, high humidity, arid lands, and salt seeping into freshwater. The effects of climate change are expected to further aggravate the situation in the Middle East, especially for a long time. Nearly 200,000 people expected to be exposed to persistent coastal flooding by 2050.

      By 2050, the entire Gulf region could face a 50 percent reduction in water availability per capita9, posing significant risks to food security and economic stability, as well as potentially sparking a rise in carbon emissions for Saudi Arabia as the country could resort to much more energy-intensive desalinization process to meet its water requirements.

      In this session, scholars from Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar, will present case studies on policies and strategies for decarbonization and provide policy recommendations that could be generalized to Gulf region.

    4. Renewable Energy in Qatar

      The energy sector is the primary driver of the economy of Qatar. According to UNCTADStat, fuels exports averaged 82 percent of Qatar’s merchandise exports in 2019–2023. Real GDP growth remained strong boosted by high prices of hydrocarbons in 2022 and 2023, as well as strong growth performance from hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Hydrocarbon resources—dominated by liquefied natural gas (LNG)—accounted for 44 percent of GDP and more than 80 percent of government’s revenues in 2022 .

      The risk posed by climate change is complex and requires a systemwide approach to define policy options particularly for economies dominated by hydrocarbons. As the climate warms, it is expected that Gulf countries will use more energy, mostly from electricity for cooling purposes. This increased energy demand is likely to increase the chances of power outages and rationing of power during peak hours. Of major concern is the link between energy demand, carbon emissions, declining air quality and climate change.

      The global goal of achieving a net zero emission target has triggered a global energy transition which could significantly expose hydrocarbon production. Qatar’s National Environment and Climate Change Strategy has set the target of reducing 25 percent of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, with significant investments in solar electricity production and development of integrated electric mass transportation systems1. In addition, since hydrocarbon resources are non-renewable, their future role in the economy depends on optimal exploitation in the business as usual scenario —suggesting the need for continued efforts in diversifying the economy.

      This session will explore Qatar’s sustainable energy option and public policy tools aimed at reducing emission rates. Panel speakers from the Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (KAHRAMAA) will discuss in detail the idea behind the project “Be Solar” which is promoting the use of solar energy systems homes, farms and industries in Qatar.

    Agenda

    17 November 2024 | Qatar University, Library building (B13), Hall 117
    TimeThemeParticipants
    8:30 am - 9:00 amRegistration
    9:00 am - 9:30 am
    Opening Session Welcome Remarks

    Dr. Aiman Erbad, Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies, Qatar University

    Excellency Ambassador Ashraf Khojaev, Ambassador of Uzbekistan Embassy in Doha

    Engineer Abdul Aziz Ahmed Abdullah Ahmed Al Hammadi, Assistant Director of Infrastructure Department - Minister’s Office

    Prof. Kaltham Al-Ghanim, Director of Social and Economic Survey Research Institute, Qatar University

    9:30 am - 9:40 am Introduction to the symposium objectives Dr. Sana Abusin, Senior Policy Analyst/ Research Associate, Social and Economic Survey Research Institute, Qatar University
    Energy Efficiency and Behavioural Insights
    9:40 am - 10:25 am Plenary Session 1
    • Institutions and policies for green structural transformation. A focus on energy efficiency
    • Behavioural Economics and Sustainable Energy Use – Evidence and lessons from four decades’
    Speakers:

    Dr. Benjamin Banda, Economic Affairs Officer at UN Trade (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

    Prof. Luis Mundaca, Professor at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics at Lund University

    10:25 am - 10:40 am Panel discussion and Q&A Moderator:

    Prof. Ahmed Khalifa, Professor of Economics, Qatar University

    10:40 am - 11:00 am Coffee break
    Strategies for the Low Carbon Transition and Renewable Energy
    11:00 am - 11:45 pm Plenary Session 2
    • Climate change plan of action and Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS)
    • Qatar strategy for renewable energy
    Speakers:

    TBD, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change

    Manal Mohammed M SH Al-Shafi, Design Engineer (Renewable Energy) Conservation and Energy Eff Dept Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation” KAHRAMAA

    Ahad Al-Enazi, Head of Major Projects Risk Management at Qatar Energy

    11:45 am - 12 pm Panel discussion and Q&A Moderator:

    Dr. Ahmed Badran, Associate Professor of Public Policy, Qatar University

    12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Lunch break
    Climate Change and Decarbonization Strategies from GCC
    1:00 pm - 1:45 pm Plenary Session 3:
    • Climate Research in the GCC - Stock Taking and Agenda Setting
    • Achieving Decarbonization through Green Hydrogen Production
    • The Future of Residential Electricity Demand in Saudi Arabia and the Role of Energy Efficiency in the 2060 Net Zero Pledge
    Speakers:

    Dr. Logan Cochrane, Associate Professor in the College of Public Policy at HBKU

    Dr. Hind Barghash, Associate Professor Engineering Department at German University of Technology in Oman

    Eng. Mohammad Aldubyan, Fellow at King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center

    1:45 pm - 2:00 pm Panel discussion ; Q&A Moderator:

    Dr. Hanan Farhat, Senior Research Director of National Corrosion Center Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute

    Concluding Remarks
    2:00 pm - 2:05 pm Announcement of upcoming events and concluding remarks

    Prof. Kaltham Al-Ghanim, Director of Social and Economic Survey Research Institute, Qatar University

    Speakers

    Luis Mundaca

    Luis Mundaca is Professor at the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics (IIIEE) at Lund University (Sweden). His research and educational activities lie at the intersection of behavioural and environmental economics, as applied to energy and climate policy experimentation and evaluation. At the IIIEE, he leads the Behavioural Insights Lab for Sustainable Energy Use and Rapid Decarbonisation. Luis has served as a Lead Author for the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report on Climate Change Mitigation (Working Group III) and the Global Energy Assessment. He was also a Lead Author for the IPCC Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C.”

    Logan

    Logan is an Associate Professor in the College of Public Policy at HBKU. He has worked with governments and non-governmental organizations in Afghanistan, Benin, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.

    Mohammad Aldubyan

    Mohammad Aldubyan is a fellow in KAPSARC’s Climate and Sustainability program. His research focuses on energy efficiency in buildings, energy demand, and energy modeling. He is currently leading the Residential Energy Model (REEM), which simulates residential energy demand and estimates the impact of energy efficiency programs on Saudi Arabia’s housing sector.

    Mohammad holds an M.Sc. in Renewable and Clean Energy from the University of Dayton, Ohio, and an M.Sc. in Economics from Purdue University, West Lafayette.

    Hind Barghash

    Hind Barghash holds the position of Associate Professor in Environmental Engineering at the German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech). She boasts an impressive academic background, with B.Sc, M.Sc, and PhD degrees in Environmental Engineering, complemented by over two decades of professional experience in the field. Her focus revolves around driving environmental engineering towards sustainable development goals, with specific expertise in sustainable water and wastewater management systems, hydrogen gas production, renewable energy, life cycle assessment (LCA), cost-benefit analysis (CBA), decarbonization, and the circular economy.

    Hind's research interests primarily lie in Wastewater engineering and environmental impact assessment, with her current research and consultancy endeavors directed towards the establishment of sustainable waste management practices for hydrogen gas production as a renewable energy alternative for local industry decarbonization. She is also actively engaged in research related to the water and carbon footprints. Her dedication to the field extends to her role as an environmental expert, where she collaborates with both governmental and private sector entities, both nationally and internationally.

    Benjamin Mattondo

    Benjamin Mattondo Banda is an and Economist at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. He has over 15 years’ experience working on international development in Africa, least developed countries and other countries in vulnerable situations. In the last 6 years, Benjamin has focused his work at supporting least developed countries in accelerating their progress towards sustainable development through activities in the three pillars of UNCTAD: (i) research and analysis – highlighting the development challenges specific to the least developed countries and investigating the best policy options to deal with them; (ii) consensus-building – raising awareness of the LDC challenges and specificities by the international community and contributing to formulating commonly agreed proposals and initiatives; (iii) technical cooperation policy advice and dialogue with LDC policymakers and capacity-building of policymakers and relevant development stakeholders. Prior to joining UNCTAD, Benjamin served in various capacities at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. He acquired PhD in Environmental Economics from university of Pretoria- South Africa.

    Najeeb Ullah

    Dr. Najeeb Ullah is an experienced agricultural researcher currently associated with the Agricultural Research Station, Qatar University as a Research Assistant Professor. His research focuses on developing agri-tech solutions to sustain food production in Qatar under changing climates. He specializes in quantifying how climatic variables such as heat and drought reduce the yield and quality of food crops, aiming to improve yield stability and farm profitability. He is also testing innovative techniques to enhance the nutritional quality of vegetable crops such as lettuce, tomato and pepper. Dr. Najeeb also holds an Honorary Senior Fellow position with the University of Queensland (UQ), Australia.

    Before joining Qatar University, Dr Ullah worked in the top Australian agricultural institutes for more than 10 years, where he developed several technologies for improving the yield and quality of field crops. He has received several research grants and fellowships, including the Cotton Research and Development Award, USyd Faculty Research Award, the Cruiser Research and Development Award, the USyd Alumni Fellowship, the Advance Queensland Fellowship, the UQ Amplify Fellowship, and the Faculty of Science, UBD Research Award, among others. His dedication and innovative research play a crucial role in addressing global agricultural challenges and advancing sustainable crop production. With over 15 years of experience, he continues to make a significant impact in the field of agricultural science.

    Manal Al-Shafai

    Manal Al-Shafai is a Design Engineer in the Renewable Energy Technology Department, Planning, Production, and Water Resources Development Directorate, Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa). She is a PhD candidate in Renewable Energy.

    Manal currently works at Kahramaa on Qatar's National Renewable Energy Strategy. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Qatar University in 2019. In the same year, she pursued a Master’s degree in Sustainable Energy from Hamad Bin Khalifa University, graduating in 2021. Her Master's thesis focused on a comprehensive sustainability assessment of various energy storage systems in hot and arid climates. In 2022, she won the Scientific Research Excellence Award for her Master’s research, which was recognized as the best scientific research, and was honored by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Manal has published numerous articles on energy storage in prestigious scientific journals and has participated in several international conferences related to renewable energy and sustainability. She is currently a PhD candidate in Sustainable Energy at Hamad Bin Khalifa University.