COP28, the 28th meeting of the Conference of the Parties of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is set to be a global event of paramount importance, focusing on the future of our planet. While formal negotiations take place in the Blue Zone, there’s an exciting world of climate action, education, and engagement waiting in the Green Zone – and it’s open to everyone.
What You Need to Know:
- Green Zone Access: The Green Zone, where various groups including youth organizations, civil society, NGOs, the private sector, and indigenous communities gather to raise their voices, will be spread throughout Expo City Dubai. Entry is free, but visitors should register for a dated Green Zone Day Pass on the official COP28 website. Some specific events may have additional registration or ticketing requirements.
- Dates: While COP28 runs from November 30 to December 12, the Green Zone will be accessible to the public from December 3 onwards.
- Themed Areas: The Green Zone encompasses themed areas dedicated to Energy Transition, Technology and Innovation, and Youth. Here, individuals have the opportunity to actively shape the future of our planet through their involvement in various events and activities.
Key Attractions and Events:
1. Expo City Farm: Located at Al Forsan Park, Expo City Farm showcases regenerative agriculture in action. Visitors can explore the cultivation of more than 10 types of crops, including fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and medicinal herbs. Workshops on hydroponic food production and sustainable farming will be offered, and farm-to-table dining experiences will be available. The farm emphasizes sustainable practices and aims to reduce food wastage.
2. Alya in Terraland: An original musical titled Alya in Terraland, targeting a younger audience, will be staged at Terra Auditorium on December 7, 11, and 12. This 45-minute production uses hip-hop and R&B music to convey an important environmental message, urging action against climate change.
3. Pledge for People and Planet: Visitors to Terra Pavilion can participate in the Pledge for People and Planet, offered in Arabic for the first time in COP history. It’s a global initiative to reduce carbon emissions and work towards a better future.
4. Resonating Tides Exhibition: The Women’s Pavilion will host an exhibition featuring photography, craft, video, and art installations that advocate for a more just and sustainable future, with a focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment. A marine photography exhibition by Prince Hussain Aga Khan, called “Fragile Beauty,” will also be on display, celebrating marine life and conservation.
5. Workshops and Initiatives: There will be numerous free workshops and initiatives, including sessions on beekeeping, vermi composting, upcycling, creating pollinator homes, storytelling on climate change, and hands-on potting and planting workshops for kids.
6. Green Mobility: To reduce carbon emissions, visitors are encouraged to use the Dubai Metro. Shuttle buses and buggies will transport visitors from the Expo 2020 metro station to the Green Zone, which includes the Sustainability, Mobility, and Opportunity districts.
Supporting Sustainability in Hospitality with BM Events:
As sustainability takes center stage at COP28, BM Events stands ready to support the hospitality industry in aligning with providing top-notch staffing solutions. Our flexible staffing model ensures that hotels, restaurants, and event venues can maintain their commitment to sustainability while meeting their staffing needs during this significant global event.
