Update from COP28 in Dubai

I observed open negotiations and official announcements. I also showcased California’s leadership by participating in several events with the other advocates, organizers, activists and scientists in attendance.

Here are a few highlights!

Going Solar

One of the big announcements at COP28 from world leaders was a commitment to triple renewable energy by 2030. And there was a lot of focus on renewable energy solutions throughout the conference.

I was invited to speak on a ‘solar panel’ to share California lessons on growing rooftop solar along with leaders from India, Saudi Arabia, Ghana and the Seychelles. I shared the story of the California campaign for the Million Solar Roofs Initiative, which really underscores the effectiveness of setting strong targets and then adopting policies that ensure we reach them.

Laura gathers with leaders from India and Saudi Arabia to talk about solar energy solutionsPhoto by Laura Deehan | TPIN

Our Ocean

This years ‘COP’ included a big focus on the ocean. 70% of the earth is covered in water and a healthy ocean is critical for all life on earth. Unfortunately, global warming is killing the world’s coral reefs and causing sea level rise, which is washing away beaches and dramatically changing coastal habitat.

The good news is the ocean can also be a key part of the solution for planetary health. Kelp forests can absorb even more carbon than trees. Clean energy solutions from offshore wind to offshore wave energy can help us power our lives with clean sources. There was a wonderful Ocean Pavilion highlighting the threats and solutions for the ocean.

We took the opportunity to officially announce our new initiative to expand California’s incredible network of ocean refuges to protect kelp forests that are habitat for sea otters, sea turtles and so much more. We were joined by Asm. Dawn Addis, who represents 20% of the California coastline, scientists from Scripps Institution for Oceanography at UCSD and advocates from the Climate Center and Elected Officials Protecting America.

As goes California…

Overall, one of the best parts of the trip was getting to spend time with elected officials and other advocates from California, to discuss new ways for us for us to reduce pollution and catalyze solutions.

As the 5th largest economy in the world, and the home to Silicon Valley and Hollywood, California strong leadership on climate both benefits our own residents and is a example for the rest of the globe. Being among tens of thousands of other passionate people got me incredibly fired up to come back to California and continue our work. In the coming year we’ll advocate to speed up the path to 100% renewable energy, protect our oceans, and safeguard the future for all of us.

Laura with Asm. Addis, Sen. Hurtado and Dominic Frongillo from Elected Officials Protecting America at COP28Photo by Laura Deehan | TPIN