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World Bioenergy Association Aims to Drive Bioenergy Agenda at COP28

As the world gears up for the pivotal Conference of Parties 28 (COP28) in Dubai from November 31 to December 12, the World Bioenergy Association (WBA) eagerly outlines its expectations and priorities for bioenergy in this crucial climate event. Set in - what is likely to be - the hottest year on record and coinciding with the midway mark between the 2015 Paris Agreement (signed in COP21) and the 2030 target, COP28 stands as a central platform where the global bioenergy sector can significantly influence sustainable energy policies and navigate the path toward a transformative energy transition.

Current Context
Amidst the geopolitical challenges and escalating global temperatures – already reaching 1.2°C above pre-industrial levels – COP28 assumes a critical role in catalyzing decisive action. This conference occurs against the backdrop of the first five-yearly Global Stocktake, conducted by the UNFCCC, issuing a resounding call for intensified efforts as the world veers off course from the long-term objectives set in the Paris Agreement.

Shaping the Energy Transition
While strides have been made in fostering a new clean energy economy dominated by solar PV and electric vehicles, the essential need to diversify renewable sources remains. Acknowledging the challenges and opportunities outlined in the IEA's 2023 Net Zero Roadmap, bioenergy is poised to expand from its current 6% share to 13% by 2030 and 18% by 2050, which reflects its immense potential in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and fostering an equitable energy transition. Thus, COP28 represents an unparalleled opportunity for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to prioritize and propel advancements in bioenergy solutions.

Key Advocacies at COP28
During COP28, the WBA will vigorously advocate for the following priorities: 

1. Scaling up Bioenergy Deployment: Calling on governments and international organizations to strengthen support mechanisms and enact policies that drive the widespread adoption of bioenergy technologies. By incentivizing investments in infrastructure and research, nations can expedite the shift towards a low-carbon future.
2. Promoting Sustainable Feedstock Production: Emphasizing the necessity of responsible land-use practices to ensure the enduring viability of bioenergy. Protecting biodiversity and averting land-use conflicts is vital to sustaining biomass resources.
3. Advancing Technological Innovations: Highlighting the indispensability of continued research and development to unlock the full potential of the sector. Collaborative efforts among scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs are pivotal for innovating bioenergy conversion technologies.
4. Fostering International Cooperation: COP28 presents an opportunity for nations to come together and share best practices in bioenergy deployment. The WBA emphasizes the importance of international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and capacity building to accelerate the global transition towards sustainable bioenergy systems.

As COP28 approaches, the WBA looks forward to engaging in constructive dialogues with different stakeholders to shape a sustainable energy future. Leveraging the potential of bioenergy, we strive to mitigate carbon emissions, promote rural development, and contribute to a resilient and sustainable world.

To know more about the WBA activities at COP28, please visit: WBA at COP28

Alejandra Leon
Project Officer at WBA