In early December, Uwe Lauber took part in the COP28 World Climate Conference in Dubai. In this interview, he reveals what he expected from the event and why his participation was important, both for him personally and for MAN Energy Solutions.
MAN People: With what expectations did you travel to COP28 in Dubai in December?
Uwe Lauber: The further implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement is top of the agenda within the framework of official UN negotiations, so delegations from the UN Member states convene there. A lot of advances were achieved at a formal level at previous COP events. When it comes to COP28 in Dubai, I therefore had great expectations that, after a decade of negotiations, there will be a successful transition to a decade of implementation. Unfortunately, COP28 was being held amid economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and concerns regarding energy security.
As a World Climate Conference, COP gives us significant pointers regarding whether and where our strategy is compatible.
What have you personally taken away from previous events?
At COP, we see that the megatrends which go hand in hand with climate protection and economic growth, and on which we focus large parts of our corporate strategy, are setting the direction in many other parts of the world too. Over the years, the shipping industry in particular has also moved increasingly into the spotlight, something that I very much welcome, of course. The approach to the climate crisis as regards opportunities and challenges is often very varied. In this respect, COP offers an opportunity for a change of perspective,whether with regard to different parts of the world, industries or environmental organizations.
Voices are raised in criticism on all sides following every climate conference. The resolutions go too far for some and not far enough for others. What can these meetings really accomplish?
Expectations are often overblown by the media. It is clear that we need to speed things up and invest more if we are to achieve the climate targets. As far as our company is concerned, the same rule continues to apply: our portfolio is dependent on good and effective regulation – and its actual implementation.
Why is it important for you personally, but for our company as well, to take part in COP?
MAN ES serves international markets with its innovative solutions. This international perspective has intensified further with our strategic focus on the decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors. As a World Climate Conference, COP gives us significant pointers regarding whether and where our strategy is compatible.
