Bain & Company, in partnership with the World Economic Forum (WEF), has launched a pioneering report titled "Prioritizing Sustainability in MENA: Mapping Critical Environmental Issues for Regional Businesses."
This report highlights the critical environmental challenges facing businesses across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and provides a roadmap for corporate leaders to align their operations with global sustainability goals.
Following the historic commitments made at COP28 in Dubai last year, the region is under mounting pressure from stakeholders—including investors, regulators, and global markets—to enhance transparency, accountability, and sustainability practices.
Akram Alami, Middle East Head of Utilities, Aviation, and Sustainability & Responsibility Practices at Bain & Company, commented: “The MENA region is at a crossroads, where the choices made today will determine the sustainability and resilience of its economy in the coming decades. This report provides businesses with the tools and insights they need to navigate the complex sustainability landscape and take decisive action.”
The new report offers essential insights to help businesses navigate the increasing demand for environmental disclosure and corporate responsibility.
Key Findings:
1-Post-COP28 Pressure:
The MENA region is at a pivotal point in its sustainability journey, following the landmark commitments made at COP28. With 70% of MENA’s emissions now covered by net-zero pledges—up from 60% two years ago—the region faces heightened expectations to transition toward sustainability. However, the report finds that regional businesses still lack clear tailored guidelines to meet these ambitious goals effectively.
2-Environmental Materiality Assessments:
The report emphasizes the importance of environmental materiality assessments as a critical starting point for companies aiming to meet sustainability goals. By prioritizing issues that are most relevant to their industry and sector, MENA businesses can improve risk management, transparency, and investor confidence.
3-Sector-Specific Recommendations:
To assist businesses at various stages of their sustainability journey, the report outlines sector-based roadmaps. Raja Atoui, Partner and Leader within the Energy & Natural Resources and Sustainability & Responsibility Practices at Bain & Company, added: “MENA businesses have a unique opportunity to lead by example and redefine sustainable growth. Our sector-specific recommendations are designed to empower organizations at every stage of their sustainability journey—from those taking their first steps to those looking to achieve full environmental transparency.”
Key industries, such as oil and gas, retail, financial institutions, and utilities, receive tailored recommendations on how to measure and disclose environmental impacts.
4-The role of governments:
Government leadership remains crucial in fostering sustainability across MENA. Policymakers must continue to set clear regulations, provide financial incentives, and support collaboration between public and private sectors to accelerate the region’s transition to a more sustainable economy.
Industry and Government Collaboration Is Key:
The report acknowledges the significant progress made by major corporations in integrating sustainability into their core business practices. However, it stresses the importance of broader collaboration to ensure these advancements reach small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that play a critical role in the MENA economy. By fostering a collective effort across supply chains, the region can better meet its environmental and economic goals.
Looking Ahead:
As sustainability becomes a defining element of business strategy, the report calls for more robust collaboration between the public and private sectors, the adoption of regional sustainability reporting frameworks, and the acceleration of policies that support a sustainable future. With this new roadmap, MENA businesses can strengthen their environmental resilience and contribute meaningfully to global sustainability efforts.
For any questions or to arrange an interview, please contact Christine Abi Assi at christine@daydreamer.agency
As the largest international platform for paper in the Middle East and Africa, Paperworld Middle East will delve into the crucial topic of sustainability in the paper and stationery sector during industry panel discussions at The Hub Forum from 12-14 November.
Setting the scene for the event’s sustainability focus, The Hub Forum will open with a ‘Future-Forward Sustainability in Logistics Packaging’ session, exploring how the printing and packaging industry is evolving to meet sustainability goals.
On day two, representatives from Ecobee, Shift Eco, Bambuyu, and Red Ridge Global will share insights on ‘Navigating Sustainability in the Middle East’, discussing the unique environmental challenges faced in the region and sharing suggestions on global solutions that can be adapted to address these issues.
Speaking ahead of the event, Sahar Karoubi, Founder, Bambuyu said: “From an infrastructure perspective, the region still has some way to go regarding locally available raw materials and effective packaging solutions. Additionally, there is a significant need for sustainability awareness at both consumer and organisational levels.”
Bambuyu’s products are made from 100% bamboo, a sustainable resource that grows quickly and regenerates without replanting. Bambuyu’s tissues are packaged plastic-free, reducing landfill waste and promoting a healthier planet.
Karoubi added: “The current situation allows us to be thought leaders in the region, understanding consumer pain points, and adapting our solutions to meet local needs.”
Ecobee is a fellow homegrown UAE brand dedicated to sustainability. Offering a diverse range of eco-friendly products for individual consumers and corporate clients, Ecobee’s product range includes jute bags, bamboo toothbrushes, eco wraps, plantable paper products, and recycled copier paper.
Richa Bansal, Founder, Ecobee said: “Although mindsets have changed, shifting to sustainability can be a challenging process for corporate entities. Ecobee provides a number of products that truly help companies become more sustainable.
“After six months of research and development, we recently launched our recycled A4 copier paper, which is made out of paper waste. No trees are cut down to produce this paper, and no chemicals are used, reducing the impact on the environment”.
Experts at Paperworld Middle East will discuss the UAE government's environmental policies, specifically on single-use plastics and their impact on businesses and consumers. According to the Abu Dhabi Single-Use Plastic Policy, single-use plastic accounts for approximately 40% of total plastics nationwide. The emirate implemented a ban on single-use plastics in 2022, closely followed by Dubai.
During the panel discussion titled: ‘Government Policy on Single-Use Plastics: Implications and Opportunities’, attendees will gain actionable insights on sustainable alternatives, compliance strategies and economic opportunities. The session will be led by Yuvraj Bahl, Director, Kaagaz Trading; Parv Sondhi, Founder and Managing partner, PSQ Paper Trading; and Kaunain Shahidi - Procurement Manager, KRecycling.
Sondhi added: “Our streamlined processes and keen interest in educating our peers and associates will help us achieve and make strong decisive steps towards a better future. Small changes are essential on a daily basis in the pulp and paper Industry to address a revolution.”
Paperworld Middle East has addressed the increased demand for sustainable materials by introducing a new Kraft and Packaging section where attendees can explore a variety of kraft papers, sustainable packaging materials, and cutting-edge printing techniques.
Now an annual event feature, Project Sustainability continues to provide a platform for exhibitors to showcase environmentally friendly products, each with detailed information on their eco-credentials. The showcase will include a wide range of products, from recycled stationery to energy-efficient office supplies.
More information is available at: www.paperworldme.com
About Paperworld Middle East
Paperworld Middle East brings together world-renowned brands, regional players, and promising innovators for an exciting three-day showcase featuring products ranging from office and school supplies, stationery, paper & paper products, to festive decorations and brandable merchandise. The next edition of the show takes place from 12-14 November 2024 at Dubai World Trade Centre, co-located with Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East.
To learn more please visit our website.
C3 – Companies Creating Change is excited to announce the launch of the Net Zero Catalyst Programme, a new initiative designed to accelerate the growth of scaleups driving sustainability across the MENAT region. The programme aspires to facilitate meaningful progress towards a net-zero future by focusing on ventures with high potential in critical sectors.
The Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) estimates that the MENAT region faces a staggering $200 billion climate finance gap by 2030[1]. This gap, a stark reflection of the region’s projected needs for climate adaptation and mitigation versus the current levels of climate-related investment, underscores the urgent need for targeted investments in late-stage climate solutions.
The C3 Net Zero Catalyst Programme, in partnership with HSBC, will provide participants with tailored growth support, access to influential industry networks, and mentorship to help them scale their businesses while advancing regional sustainability efforts. Through this initiative, C3 continues strengthening its commitment to fostering impactful entrepreneurship and supporting ventures that align with the global sustainability agenda.
This programme builds on C3’s long-standing efforts to empower impact-driven startups, leveraging its five-year collaboration with HSBC. The partnership has supported over 140 socially and environmentally driven regional ventures, including notable alumni such as Desert Control, Hydro Wind, and ONE MOTO.
Kevin Holliday, Managing Director of C3, said:
"The Net Zero Catalyst Programme is designed to empower scaleups to advance their sustainability efforts. In collaboration with HSBC, our long-standing partner who shares our strategic vision, we are equipping innovators with the tools, expertise, and networks needed to scale their businesses and amplify their impact on sustainability within their industries. We also recognise the critical role of later-stage companies in driving the transition to a net-zero economy, as their contributions are essential to accelerating meaningful progress towards a sustainable future."
Sabrin Rahman, Managing Director - Head of Sustainability, HSBC Middle East and Türkiye, said:
“Working with clients and stakeholders to help catalyse the new economy is one of the core areas that plays to our strengths as an organisation. We’re excited by the potential of this catalyst programme to bring attention to some compelling, scalable technology ideas and businesses.”
Applications for the C3 Net Zero Catalyst Programme are now open and will close on Sunday December 15th. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://bit.ly/3YEy0GE
The initiative aligns with C3’s mission to empower entrepreneurs with the potential to create measurable positive change. As startups in the MENAT region play a crucial role in addressing sustainability challenges, the Net Zero Catalyst Programme will provide the tools they need to scale their solutions and contribute to a greener future.
Further information
C3
Johanna Lawson-Dick
j.lawsondick@thoburns.com
About C3:
At C3, a B Corp™- certified organisation, we help good business get great at solving the world’s most pressing issues. We are dedicated to empowering innovators with the essential knowledge and skills to unlock sustainable growth through our initiatives, tailored towards startups, youth, and broader efforts to build the impact ecosystem.
With the collective support of our network of over 4,000 experts, trainers, and 150+ investors, we have fostered a community of 2,500+ change-makers. In collaboration with renowned global companies such as HSBC, Accenture, Standard Chartered, Google, DMCC, Engie, and Multichoice, we have developed cutting-edge programmes designed to support innovators, startups, aspiring entrepreneurs, and students worldwide. We have successfully accelerated 300+ cross-sector impact-driven startups from 27 countries, collectively raising more than $550 million to date.
Our dedication to impact and fostering meaningful partnerships has made a significant difference globally. We achieved our B Corp™ certification in 2024, joining a global community of businesses committed to the highest standards of social and environmental impact. In the same year, C3 became a People + Planet First verified social enterprise. We are also recognised as a United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Pioneer for our contribution to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Our commitment to sustainability has been further celebrated with multiple gold awards at the Gulf Sustainability Awards, where we were honoured as the overall winner in 2022.
To learn more, visit: wegrowwithc3.com
Forbes Middle East has released its second annual list of the region’s sustainability leaders, recognizing the trailblazers and visionaries driving sustainable initiatives and innovations with the potential to reshape the world.
The list spans 12 major corporate sectors, with rankings based on a detailed assessment of each company’s sustainability efforts. Forbes Middle East compared initiatives within each sector, factoring in ESG reporting, greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, water and energy usage, and the adoption of renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies. Only initiatives led by companies in the Middle East were considered.
In total, 107 leaders across 12 sectors and 105 companies were recognized for their contributions to advancing the region’s sustainability agenda. The UAE led with 54 entries, followed by Saudi Arabia with 20, Egypt with 10, Qatar with eight, Bahrain and Kuwait with five each, and Oman with three.
Financial investments in sustainability initiatives have surged across organizations in the region, reflecting a growing focus on environmentally responsible practices. Sustainability commitments are gaining significant momentum across organizations in the region. In the banking sector, First Abu Dhabi Bank facilitated $21.2 billion in sustainable and transition projects during the first half of 2024. The QNB Group contributed $3.5 billion to green loans in 2023 and played a pivotal role in coordinating Qatar’s first $2.5 billion green bond issuance in May 2024. Emirates NBD has facilitated over $20.4 billion in green, social, and sustainability-linked transactions since 2021, while Mashreq has set an ambitious goal to facilitate $30 billion in sustainable financing by 2030. Saudi Awwal Bank, meanwhile, aims to grow its sustainable financing and investments to $9 billion by 2025.
In the renewable energy sector, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) signed three joint ventures in July 2024 to localize renewable energy projects, with ACWA Power spearheading the development of 70% of Saudi Arabia’s renewable initiatives under PIF’s program. In Abu Dhabi, EWEC is working to meet 60% of the emirate's total power demand from renewable and clean energy sources by 2035. Additionally, in March 2024, Masdar acquired a 50% stake in US-based renewable power producer Terra-Gen.
Click here for the full list of the Middle East’s Sustainability Leaders 2024.
The Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders’ Summit 2024 will be held in Abu Dhabi from October 17-18. To find out more and secure your place, click here.
The Middle East’s Sustainability Leaders 2024
| Sector | Top-Ranking Sustainability Leader |
| Banking & Financial Services | Hana Al RostamaniGroup CEO, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) |
| Environmental Services | Mohamed Jameel Al RamahiCEO, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company – Masdar |
| Energy & Utilities | Jasim Husain ThabetGroup CEO & Managing Director, TAQA Group |
| Food & Agriculture | Abdullah AlbaderCEO, Almarai |
| Green Finance | Said ZaterGroup CEO & Managing Director, Contact Financial Holding |
| Investment & Holding Companies | Yasir Othman Al-RumayyanGovernor, Public Investment Fund (PIF) |
| Manufacturing & Industrials | Yasser Zaghloul Group CEO, NMDC Group |
| Oil & Gas | Amin H. NasserPresident & CEO, Saudi Aramco |
| Real Estate & Construction | Nadhmi Al-NasrCEO, NEOM |
| Technology & Telecom | Hatem DowidarGroup CEO, e& |
| Transport & Logistics | Sultan Ahmed bin SulayemGroup Chairman & CEO, DP World |
| Travel & Tourism | Ahmed bin Saeed Al MaktoumChairman & Chief Executive, Emirates Group |
Danone Nutricia Middle East DMCC has become the first FMCG company in the GCC to receive B Corporation certification placing it among some of the most responsible corporations in the region.
B Corp certifications are earned through operating with the highest levels of accountability and transparency when it comes to customers, communities, suppliers, the environment, and employees. With the certification, Danone Nutricia joins a community of mission-driven businesses operating as a force for good, working to bring health through food to as many people as possible.
The company’s sustainability strategy, the Danone Impact Journey, was a major factor in securing the certification. The strategy sets out three priorities: health through food, preserving and regenerating nature, and people and communities. Among these priorities is Danone’s commitment to decarbonization in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5°C. The company is aiming to decarbonize by transforming its value chain to transition away from fossil fuels in line with the momentous UAE Consensus, which was reached at COP28 in 2023.
The company has committed to net zero by 2050 but has set a roadmap of milestones for the short- and medium-term. By 2025, the company aims to achieve a 30 percent improvement in energy efficiency, while sourcing ingredients only from farms that have begun to transition to regenerative agriculture. All packaging will be 100% recyclable, reusable and compostable by 2030, while methane emissions from products including milk will be reduced by 30 percent by the end of the decade.
“Achieving this prestigious certification amplifies our strong commitment to our communities, shareholders, customers, communities and the world we live in,” said Wael Hamza, General Manager of Danone Nutricia MENA. “We act on this commitment every day through our mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible at every stage of their lives, without compromising our environment.”
Ahmed Elshal, General Secretary of Danone Nutricia MENA, said: “It has been a longstanding goal of the company to reach this achievement and be among the leading companies inspiring and empowering others in the Middle East that make a positive impact. This certification signifies our strong commitment to put people, communities and the environment at the heart of everything we do.”
To obtain the B Corp certification, companies must undergo a thorough B Impact Assessment from B Lab Company and achieve a minimum score of 80 out of 200.
In addition to providing essential nutrition products across its portfolio, Danone Nutricia MENA is committed to serving underserved populations and offering convenient nutritional solutions for homecare patients in the region.
Danone Nutricia Middle East DMCC operates in more than 18 countries in the MENA region.
To learn more visit: Nutricia DMCC - Certified B Corporation - B Lab Global
