Using commercial diplomacy to drive decarbonisation

By addressing the regulatory, technological, financial, and societal aspects of methane emissions, stakeholders can move toward meaningful progress in decarbonisation and a more sustainable future, Aida Araissi tells OGN

- ABDULAZIZ KHATTAK

AS the world grapples with the pressing challenges of climate change, it has become increasingly clear that addressing these issues requires robust international collaboration and a comprehensive strategy that strengthens connections among all players in the global ecosystem.

“We are witnessing a profound shift in the global energy landscape, driven by climate change, technological advancements, and geopolitical uncertainties. While we are transitioning to more sustainable energy sources, emissions continue to rise alongside the development of global economies,” says Aida Araissi, the CEO and Founder of the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, tells OGN energy magazine.

These challenges have led to a convergence of agendas, prompting businesses to rethink their strategies and adopt new approaches to remain relevant and resilient.

The complexities of methane emissions arising from diverse sources such as oil and gas operations, agriculture, and landfills exemplify the need for coordinated action across sectors.

Methane is not the only concern. Issues like flaring, carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), and the broader decarbonisation of energy systems necessitate systemwide collaboration.

Araissi emphasises that tackling these challenges effectively demands an approach that unites stakeholders whose goals may be mutually exclusive or even contradictory, and who do not engage with one another directly, at least not often from governments to industry leaders and local communities.

The “wicked problem” concept aptly describes the energy transition, involving various factors that require input from sectors historically sidelined in energy discussions.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ECOSYSTEM-WIDE COLLABORATION