UAE Launches World Fire Emission Reduction Alliance to Reduce Carbon Emissions by 80%

The UAE has launched the World Fire Emission Reduction Alliance (WFERA) with the aim of reducing global emissions from fires by 80% before 2050. Introduced during COP28 in Dubai, the initiative garnered support from six nations, signifying a collective commitment to address the environmental impact of fires. WFERA, a groundbreaking alliance, unites countries, international institutions, and civil defense organizations under a common operational framework, ushering in a new phase in the global effort to curb carbon emissions from fires.

The initiative seeks to establish an international coalition involving the International Climate Change Law Enforcement Institutions (I2LEC) and a unified operational system. Praised by fire departments worldwide, the alliance was lauded by John Collie, CEO of Fire Protection Association Australia, who emphasized its potential to contribute to climate change mitigation and create a more sustainable world.

During the ‘Eco Readiness’ conference, discussions focused on strengthening global collaboration and coordination to combat fires and address their environmental consequences, climate impact, and associated emissions. Richard Abott, Area Commander, National Fire Chiefs Council NFCC, UK, highlighted the significance of countries collaborating to share knowledge and contribute to global climate change efforts.

The signed memoranda, involving over 56 countries, mark the culmination of efforts by the UAE Civil Defence and the “Eco Readiness” program. This program, under the Ministry of Interior, supports nations globally in reducing carbon emissions from fire incidents, working toward climate neutrality on a global scale. It includes a worldwide fire incident database, collaborative data analysis, and initiatives such as the ‘Heat Map of Environmental Crimes,’ revealing connections between crimes and climate change.

Lt Col Dr Ahmed Al Zaruoni, director of the International Police Representation Department, Ministry of Interior, UAE, explained that the Eco Readiness application analyzes materials prone to fire incidents, emissions, and their global impact. He invited other countries to join the initiative and fight global carbon emissions from fires, highlighting the application’s role in showcasing real-time climate change effects worldwide.