BROWARD COUNTY, FL- Broward County joins forces with nations from around the world as the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) begins in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 

Broward Vice Mayor Beam Furr is part of the United States Conference of Mayors bipartisan delegation where world leaders, scientists and environmental advocates will meet to develop strategies and work to mitigate the impact of climate change across the globe. COP28 is considered the premier global climate conference, and for the first time features the Local Climate Action Summit - an unprecedented effort to involve local governments in the global effort to combat this generational challenge. 

"This is a critical moment for our planet and our future. An international framework is in place to shape local climate change policies and strategy. Broward County is on the frontlines of this challenge, facing rising sea levels, extreme weather, and public health risks. That's why we are here, to share our experiences and learn from others who are taking bold and innovative actions to combat this generational challenge," said Vice Mayor Furr.

Vice Mayor Furr and Broward County Chief Resiliency Officer Dr. Jennifer Jurado's attendance at COP28 mark a landmark step forward, as Broward County takes a global leadership role in confronting the challenges we face.

More than 70,000 participants from 198 countries are in attendance.  The summit is organized around four central themes: technology and innovation; inclusion; vulnerable frontline communities; and financing to address future climate change challenges.

COP28 President-designate Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber stressed the importance of local community involvement. "By bringing hundreds of local leaders to COP28, we will foster new, multi-level partnerships to help fast-track the energy transition, fix climate finance, focus on people, lives and livelihoods, and make sure local voices are heard at the international climate table."

"A world stage is in place to focus on climate change and protecting the planet that we all share. Discussions put local leaders at the heart of climate change. I'm honored to represent Broward County at this high level of in-depth strategizing to bring about universal change," said Vice Mayor Furr.

Under the leadership of Dr. Jurado, Broward County has developed strategies and partnerships to address climate change for more than a decade.  Broward County's Resilient Environment Department was created in 2008. In 2009 Broward, Miami-Dade, Monroe, and Palm Beach Counties partnered to create the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact to work collaboratively to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, implement adaptation strategies and build climate resilience. 

Watch COP28 Summit meetings here.

December 1, 2023

Media Contact:
Kimberly Maroe
Broward County Commission Media Relations/PIO
Office of Public Communications
(954) 357-8053
kmaroe@broward.org