Premier Smith and Minister Schulz will travel to Dubai for the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework on Climate Change (COP28). While at the world’s largest annual climate summit, Alberta’s Premier and environment minister will showcase Alberta’s effective, common-sense and innovative approach to reducing emissions while keeping energy reliable, secure and affordable.

Alberta’s Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan sets a clear course for a carbon-neutral economy by 2050. The province is a world leader in reducing methane emissions, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), and will completely phase out coal-fired electricity generation by early 2024.

“It is critical that Alberta have strong representation at COP28 so that we can effectively share our story and our vision with the world. Alberta is proof that jurisdictions can have a thriving economy and a practical, effective plan to reduce emissions while supporting responsible energy development. We will continue to do everything we can to attract investment and show the world that Alberta will remain an energy and emissions-reduction powerhouse for decades to come.”

Danielle Smith, Premier

“We will use COP28 to showcase the amazing work that is underway to reduce emissions while keeping energy affordable, reliable and secure. We look forward to promoting Alberta’s plan to reduce emissions, highlighting our legacy of environmental leadership and responsible energy development, and demonstrating Alberta’s important role in the global energy transition.”

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

At COP28, Premier Smith and Minister Schulz will participate in panels, speaking events and discussions with heads of state, ministers, municipalities, civil society representatives and chief executives from around the world about global issues like greenhouse gas emissions, CCUS, hydrogen, technology and innovation.

Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page. The broader Alberta delegation will include participation from industry, academia, non-governmental organizations and municipalities, among others.

In addition to participating in COP28, the Premier’s delegation will meet with officials from the regions of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and Doha to discuss opportunities in the energy, infrastructure, education, transportation and agriculture sectors.

Alberta’s government is committed to working with national and international partners to advance shared interests that can lead to new opportunities for people and businesses in Alberta and around the world. By working with industry, researchers and other governments, Alberta is implementing the Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan and offering a business-friendly environment primed for investment and growth.

Itinerary for Premier Smith and Minister Schulz*

Nov. 30 to Dec. 2
  • Travel to Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dec. 2
  • Alberta delegation briefings and meetings on COP28

Dec. 3
  • Bilateral meetings with attendees from other jurisdictions

Dec. 4
  • Participate in fireside on the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation
  • Meet with Alberta-based delegates attending COP28
  • Bilateral meetings with attendees from other jurisdictions

Dec. 5
  • Participate in panels and forums – Sustainable Innovation Forum: Implementing Resilient Carbon Markets on a Global Scale and Transformative Climate Policy: Alberta’s Industrial Carbon Pricing and Emissions
  • Bilateral meetings with attendees from other jurisdictions

Dec. 6
  • Participate in panel International CCUS Knowledge Centre
  • Participate in fireside chat Western Canada Solutions to Energy Transition
  • Bilateral meetings with attendees from other jurisdictions

Dec. 7-11
  • Premier delegation meetings with officials and organizations from the regions of Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and Doha. Locations TBD

Dec. 12
  • Depart from Dubai, United Arab Emirates

*Subject to change.

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