Tadweer Group has announced the creation of a decarbonisation pathway with a target of reducing emissions across its business operations by 40% by 2035.
This announcement was made during the 11th EcoWASTE Exhibition and Conference, a groundbreaking platform for the MENA region’s recycling, waste management, and waste-to-plus industries, where Tadweer Group is a Strategic Partner and Co-Host.
The pathway was created in line with Tadweer Groups ambitions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) produced as a result of the global waste sector (3 to 5%), particularly methane, which is released from landfills.
The pathway also aligns with the UAE's third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), a benchmark that the nation uses to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris Agreement, reinforcing the organisation’s support for the global sustainability agenda.
Ali Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and CEO, Tadweer Group, commented, “At Tadweer Group, sustainability is at the heart of our mandate. In line with this commitment, we are proud to announce the development of our decarbonisation pathway. This will pave the way for our transition to a low-carbon business. By reducing emissions from waste, we are contributing to addressing climate change challenges and meeting the UAE’s net zero target. Decarbonising the waste sector in Abu Dhabi will also help achieve international climate objectives and net zero commitments, showcasing our support for the UAE Climate Responsible Company Pledge. And by fostering a deeper understanding of how we can reduce our emissions, we are delivering on our responsibility to helping create a more sustainable world.”
The pathway focuses on Tadweer Group’s projects that divert waste from landfill and convert it into valuable resources, such as Abu Dhabi’s first greenfield Material Recovery Facility and waste-to-energy plants. In addition, other advanced waste-to-resource technologies included in the pathway include waste-to-waste-to-sustainable aviation Fuel (SAF) and biofuel. This pathway is also a measurable climate transition plan to divert waste from landfill, in line with the organisation’s ambition, thereby reducing GHG emissions. In line with its dedication to a net zero future, the pathway also factors in the progress of the Waste to Zero initiative for global waste decarbonisation. Finally, this will also contribute to enhancing air quality and improving public health, providing opportunities for green jobs, new revenue streams, and leadership in low-carbon innovation.
Source: WAM (Emirates News Agency)
Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE National Railway Network, has introduced the region’s first-ever "CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates," an innovative initiative that highlights the environmental benefits of rail transport for its customers.
This significant milestone reinforces Etihad Rail’s role as a key contributor to the UAE’s climate change agenda, aligning with the nation’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy through a transparent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The certificates - powered by EcoTransIT, a globally recognised tool for assessing the environmental impact of transport - quantify and validate the carbon savings businesses achieve by choosing rail over alternative transport modes, directly contributing to the UAE’s decarbonisation goals. Using EcoTransIT’s accredited methodology, the certificates calculate CO2 Equivalents (CO2e) by factoring in direct emissions from diesel and indirect emissions from biofuels (where applicable).
The process includes Well-to-Wheel (WTW) analysis, covering the full lifecycle of fuel use—from extraction to combustion— ensuring an accurate measurement of the environmental impact of each tonne-kilometre transported. It also accounts for Cargo Weight and Distance using shipment-specific data and geocoordinates. For comparison, rail freight emissions are calculated in comparison to truck emissions, providing a clear basis to highlight rail's environmental advantages.
By launching these certificates, Etihad Rail is empowering its customers by providing credible and tangible data that reflects the positive environmental impact of their shift from road to rail. This initiative not only supports businesses’ ESG objectives and commitments, but also presents an opportunity to showcase their leadership in environmental stewardship.
By adopting rail as a primary mode of transport, companies can align their operations with the Federal decree law 11 of 2024 on the ‘Reduction of Climate Change Effects’, ensuring compliance with national climate regulations while advancing their sustainability goals. These certificates allow customers to enhance their corporate sustainability reports, improve ESG Ratings, attract environmentally conscious stakeholders, and strengthen their leadership in environmental stewardship.
Omar Alsebeyi, Executive Director of Commercial & Performance of Etihad Rail, said, “At Etihad Rail, sustainability is not just a commitment—it is a cornerstone of our identity and operations. The introduction of our CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates underscores our dedication to pioneering climate action and delivering tangible value to our customers. This initiative empowers businesses to take active roles in reducing their carbon footprint while leveraging the unparalleled efficiency and reliability of rail transport. By aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy and the UAE Climate Change law, we are driving transformative change in the logistics sector, building a more sustainable future for the UAE and the region.”
He added, "The introduction of Etihad Rail's CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates presents a unique value proposition for our customers. As businesses increasingly prioritise environmental responsibility, these certificates not only allow them to align their operations with the UAE’s decarbonisation goals but also demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. We’re proud to be part of this pioneering initiative that is rapidly becoming a key market differentiator, helping us attract and retain customers focused on reducing their environmental impact while enhancing their logistics operations."
Looking ahead, Etihad Rail aims to transport 60 million tonnes of cargo annually by 2030, contributing to the UAE’s economic diversification, enhancing supply chain resilience, and contributing to its climate targets. By shifting freight transport from road to rail, Etihad Rail’s operations are projected to reduce CO2 emissions from the UAE’s road transport sector by 21% annually by 2050, taking up to 300 trucks off the roads for every train journey and removing 8.2 million tonnes of CO2 per year. By leveraging its advanced railway network and fostering sustainable practices, Etihad Rail continues to drive meaningful progress toward a greener future for the UAE.
Source: WAM (Emirates News Agency)
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has signed an agreement with ne’ma – the National Food Loss and Waste Initiative to promote responsible consumption across the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The agreement was signed by Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, Director-General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, and Khuloud Hasan Al Nuwais, Chief Sustainability Officer of Emirates Foundation and Secretary-General of the ne’ma National Steering Committee.
The national food loss and waste initiative is at the core of the UAE’s efforts to ensure food security and address climate change, and this collaboration aims to drive transformative change in the travel and hospitality sectors, contributing to the National Food Security Strategy 2051 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12.3, aiming to reduce food loss and waste in the UAE by 50 percent by 2030.
Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry said, "As Abu Dhabi continues to grow as a leading global destination, it is essential that we advance our commitment to sustainable development, establishing our emirate as a responsible hub for tourism and events. The partnership with ne'ma sets out a roadmap for meaningful action to reduce food loss and waste while creating awareness among travellers and stakeholders about responsible consumption.”
As part of the agreement, DCT Abu Dhabi will encourage restaurants, hotels, and tourism establishments, to adopt sustainable practices such as portion control, menu optimisation, and creative use of surplus food; and develop educational campaigns for tourists and residents to highlight the environmental impact of food waste and the importance of responsible consumption.
Khuloud Hasan Al Nuwais said, “The MoU with DCT Abu Dhabi marks an important step toward promoting sustainable practices within the UAE’s hospitality and tourism sectors. Through this collaboration, ne’ma will work with hotels, restaurants and tourism establishments to adopt key food waste reduction initiatives such as portion control, menu optimisation, and the innovative use of surplus food. ne’ma will also spearhead educational campaigns that engage both residents and tourists, emphasising the environmental impact of food waste and the importance of mindful, responsible consumption.”
DCT Abu Dhabi will also facilitate the redistribution of surplus food to charitable organisations, food banks, or for composting, in collaboration with stakeholders across the value chain; collect data on food waste within the tourism sector to identify trends, hotspots, and areas for improvement, thereby informing future strategies; and promote broader sustainability initiatives, including reducing single-use plastics, supporting local food producers, and minimising transportation-related emissions.
DCT Abu Dhabi partnered with ne’ma for its inaugural Retrofit Summit to support the objective of reducing the event’s carbon emissions by taking actions to minimise food waste and improve food related operational efficiency. As a result of this partnership, 89 kgs of food waste from the event was diverted from landfill with 17.8 kgs of compost created to support local farmers.
Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB) also collaborated with ne’ma at the ICCA Congress where key elements of ne’ma’s Zero Food to Landfill framework were adopted to ensure sustainable operations, raising awareness amongst delegates, reducing food waste.
Source: WAM (Emirates News Agency)
Majid Al Futtaim, a leading shopping mall, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, today opened the Middle East’s first net-positive mosque under the name of its late founder, Mr. Majid Al Futtaim.
The mosque, located in the Group’s flagship Dubai community, Tilal Al Ghaf, integrates sustainable and modern design practices in support of the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030, ensuring energy efficiency, resource optimisation, and minimal environmental impact.
His Excellency Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, General Manager, Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department, said: "The opening of the first net-zero emissions mosque in the Middle East is an achievement that reflects our deep commitment to the principles of sustainability, this project represents a significant shift in the field of environmental sustainability and highlights our fruitful collaboration with Majid Al Futtaim in implementing this initiative. It serves as a live example of a successful partnership between the public and private sectors, setting a new standard for responsible innovation in building and maintenance, it also aligns with the noble Islamic values that advocate for environmental preservation and protection."
H.E added: "This project perfectly aligns with the United Arab Emirates' Vision 2030, which focuses on achieving a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. We reaffirm our commitment to supporting this ambitious green agenda, and we hope that this project will inspire more initiatives across the region and the world. It encourages all sectors to adopt innovative solutions that contribute to building a sustainable environment, ensuring safety and prosperity for future generations."
Ahmed Galal Ismail, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Holding, said: “It is a great honour to inaugurate the Majid Al Futtaim Mosque, a symbol of our late Founder’s enduring legacy and a tribute to his commitment to serve the communities in which we operate. As the first net-positive mosque in the region, this space has been thoughtfully designed as a cornerstone of the community, blending sustainable design principles with Islamic values.
We would like to thank the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department for their full support of this project, helping us to maximise our positive social and environmental impact.”
As a result of a series of key sustainable features, the Majid Al Futtaim Mosque is set to become the first bespoke project to achieve BREEAM certification. This assessment recognises measures of performance, which are set against established benchmarks, evaluating the building’s specification, design, construction, and use.
The mosque’s construction incorporates advanced mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, renewable energy sources, and sustainable building practices designed to achieve a net-positive status. Key features include a robust renewable energy system with 203 solar photovoltaic panels, providing a total installed solar capacity of 116.73 kWp and generating over 204,121 kWh annually, providing more than 115% of the mosque’s energy demand. The excess green energy is supplied back to the grid to be used across the communnity. Additional energy-efficient systems include a solar-powered hot water system, LED lighting, an efficient HVAC setup, EV charging stations and a Building Management System (BMS) to optimise energy consumption. Water efficiency, air quality, and non-toxic materials have been employed to ensure a healthy environment, with responsibly sourced, low-carbon materials prioritised to reduce its overall carbon footprint.
The first of its kind structure reinforces Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to building a cleaner tomorrow as the Group’s aim to achieve net positive in carbon and water for all its operating companies by 2040.
For more information on the region’s first net positive mosque, visit majidalfuttaim.com.
Media Contact:
Katharina Mayr, Senior Manager Corporate Communications & PR
katharina.mayr@maf.ae
About Tilal Al Ghaf
Tilal Al Ghaf is Majid Al Futtaim’s flagship mixed-use community in Dubai, providing a contemporary and luxurious resort-like living experience. Nestled in the heart of new Dubai, with a stunning lagoon and white sandy beaches at its heart, Tilal Al Ghaf balances luxury resort-style living with a fresh urban feeling. With its exceptional amenities, unique architectural design and unparalleled attention to detail, every home in Tilal Al Ghaf is created with the customer in mind.
Staying true to Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to sustainable design and living, the community features walkable neighbourhoods connected by a meticulously crafted network of pathways, cycling tracks and jogging trails. A world of culinary experiences, signature Majid Al Futtaim retail selection and a world-renowned school are never more than a short stroll away.
www.tilalalghaf.com
Please follow us on
https://www.twitter.com/tilalalghaf
https://www.fb.com/tilalalghaf
https://www.instagram.com/tilalalghaf
Signifying a huge leap forward in fulfilling ambitions to achieve zero-waste to landfill in the emirate of Sharjah, BEEAH, the Middle East's sustainability pioneer, Masdar, the UAE’s clean energy powerhouse, and Veolia Near & Middle East, leader in low carbon energy production, recently celebrated the historic milestone of successfully processing 500,000 tonnes of waste at the Sharjah Waste to Energy facility since it began operations in 2023.
Leadership from BEEAH, Masdar, and Veolia, as well as officials from Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA) and Sharjah Municipality, came together to mark the occasion at the BEEAH Headquarters and visit the Sharjah Waste to Energy plant to witness operations following the 500,000 tonnes milestone.
As a result of the 500,000 tonnes milestone, the Sharjah Waste to Energy Facility has also successfully abated 750,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, recovered 2,000 tonnes of metal since it began operations and exported 300,000,000 kWh of electricity to the public grid through a power purchase agreement with SEWA, aligning with clean energy targets within the emirate. The Sharjah Waste to Energy facility has also worked more than 300,000 hours without a lost time incident, reflecting high standards of safety on site.
The milestone marks a new era for the operation and maintenance joint venture partnership between BEEAH, Masdar, and Veolia, as they drive towards a zero-waste future in Sharjah and a lower carbon, clean energy future in the UAE, the region and beyond.
Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of BEEAH, said: “This milestone for the Sharjah Waste to Energy plant is more than just a number. It is a big step towards achieving total landfill diversion in Sharjah, growing further from the current rate of 90%. It is a demonstration of an environmentally and commercially sustainable model for waste-to-energy innovation, increasing landfill diversion by processing hard to recycle waste, producing low carbon power and displacing a significant amount of emissions. Together with Masdar, and our operation and maintenance joint venture partner Veolia, we have created a hugely successful model that can be adapted to meet the waste management and clean energy needs of cities across the UAE, the region and the beyond.”
Commenting on the occasion Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar said: “We're proud to witness the Sharjah Waste to Energy plant reach this significant milestone in such a short space of time thanks to the support of all of the partners and stakeholders in this innovative project. This achievement underscores our commitment to driving sustainable solutions and contributing to the UAE's ambitious clean energy goals. By converting waste into valuable energy, we're not only reducing our reliance on traditional fuels but also creating a more circular economy for the benefit of both our communities and the environment."
Commenting on the milestone, Philippe Bourdeaux, Executive Vice President Africa & Middle East, said: “We are immensely proud of achieving this major milestone at Veolia, working with our partners BEEAH and Masdar to deliver a sustainable future for the region and the world. At Veolia we have always taken a holistic approach to waste management that not only maximizes resource recovery but also contributes to recycling and a circular economy – based on our global experience of operation and maintenance that are setting new benchmarks in the sector. This important milestone also perfectly aligns with Veolia’s ‘GreenUp’ strategic program, launched earlier this year with specific ecological objectives aimed at making Veolia the champion of decarbonization, depollution, and the regeneration of natural resources. I am confident this marks the beginning of a new phase of green transformation across the UAE while adding momentum to the country’s journey toward a net-zero future. Veolia remains committed to further supporting the UAE’s push for green energy.”
The waste-to-energy plant, conceptualized and realized by the Emirates Waste to Energy joint venture between BEEAH and Masdar, is the region's first of its kind at a commercial-scale. This state-of-the-art facility can produce 30 megawatts (MW) of low carbon energy, enough to power up to 28,000 homes and offset up to 450,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year. It is instrumental in Sharjah’s ambition to achieve zero waste to landfill and is helping advance the UAE’s journey toward sustainability. The Emirates Waste to Energy joint venture was first established in 2017 between Masdar and BEEAH, and to further elevate standards for waste management and energy production in the region, an operation and maintenance joint venture was then formed with Veolia in 2022. The Sharjah Waste to Energy facility represents a perfect global case study in sustainable collaboration between Veolia, Masdar, and BEEAH, and how achieving milestones can further enhance outcomes and unlock new partnerships.
This Sharjah Waste to Energy plant is equipped with cutting-edge technology ensure both high efficiency and minimal environmental impact. It includes a CNIM boiler with a unique four-pass system and a Martin grate with a 5-run design which ensures optimal combustion control. The LAB flue gas treatment system further minimizes emissions, supporting the facility’s role to reduce environmental impact.
The milestone at the Sharjah Waste to Energy facility aligns with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to support the country in fulfilling its clean energy targets and reduce the carbon footprint associated with power generation, and with the UAE Environment Policy, which is driving the transformation of waste-related challenges into development opportunities.
Dubai International's (DXB) work to cut carbon emissions has been recognised with a Level 4 "Transformation" accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme, placing it, as of September 2024, among the top 5% of participating airports worldwide to achieve this status.
The "Transformation" certification is awarded to airports that realise absolute emissions reductions and drive systemic change with its stakeholders.
In strategic alignment with the UAE, Dubai Airports is playing a vital role in supporting the country's Net Zero 2050 strategy— through its commitment to minimising its environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency, with a comprehensive focus on decarbonisation, resource conservation, and adopting cutting-edge technologies.
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, commented, "Achieving Level 4 'Transformation' accreditation underscores our firm commitment to embedding sustainability at the core of everything we do at Dubai Airports. This recognition not only highlights our progress in reducing our own carbon footprint but also reflects the strength of our partnerships in driving broader, systemic change across the aviation ecosystem."
"For us, sustainability is not a checkbox – it's a long-term strategy that involves collaboration, innovation, and constant improvement. The responsibility we own goes beyond our operation; it's about leading by example and embracing a culture where every stakeholder plays a part in creating a more sustainable future. Together, we are setting a new standard for what is possible in airport operations, as we continue to support Dubai's and the UAE's leadership in the global effort towards Net Zero by 2050," he added.
Stefano Baronci, Director-General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, said, "We congratulate Dubai Airports for its significant strides in reducing carbon emissions, setting a benchmark for airports across the region. By positioning itself as one of the leaders in efficient carbon management, Dubai Airports demonstrates a strong commitment to building a more sustainable future. Dubai Airports' approach aligns with our industry's collective vision of achieving net zero emissions by 2050."
DXB has made significant progress through key initiatives and partnerships aimed at advancing sustainable aviation. A recent example is the collaboration with dnata and Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC), transitioning dnata's non-electric airside fleet to a biodiesel blend, reducing carbon emissions by over 3,500 tonnes annually.
Other initiatives include a partnership with Etihad Energy Services to enhance energy efficiency through building and lighting retrofit and solar integration, and a collaboration with BEEAH Group, reducing landfill waste by 60% through an innovative food waste treatment plan.
DXB's adoption of the 'Follow the Greens' system has also optimised aircraft taxiing, cutting fuel consumption and emissions. Other successful initiatives include active engagement with 'Airports of Tomorrow', a collaborative venture by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and ACI, to steer the aviation industry toward net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The recently launched oneDXB Sustainability Alliance, a network of airport partners, is further driving sustainability by exploring over 180 additional potential decarbonisation projects.
The Level 4 ACI Accreditation affirms Dubai Airports' leadership in sustainability and positions DXB as a benchmark in the global airport community.
Source: WAM
The aluminium sector, which is critical to several low-carbon industries, is a major asset that helps the UAE achieve a low-carbon future, said Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment.
“As a key enabler to reducing emissions in numerous sectors, we know that demand for aluminium will rise. We must find ways to meet this demand, whilst reducing the environmental impact of aluminium production,” she said in her keynote address at fifteenth session of the National Dialogue on Climate Ambition (NDCA) at Emirates Global Aluminium headquarters in Al Taweelah.
The fifteenth assembly focused on the innovative solutions that progress the decarbonisation of the aluminium sector to meet the growing global demand for this sustainable metal as the UAE is the fifth-largest aluminium producing nation in the world.
The NDCA, launched in May 2022, is a platform to define and raise sectoral climate ambition and advance all-inclusive participation in the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.
Engaging a specific sector
The NDCA’s monthly stakeholder assemblies are dedicated to engaging a specific sector, with the aim of exploring sectoral requirements, priorities, and future direction to amplify contributions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The session engaged stakeholders from across the aluminium value chain, including the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative, leading can-makers and waste management companies, to discuss the role of aluminium in boosting the UAE’s circular economy.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: “We are honoured to host the 15th National Dialogue for Climate Ambition session at EGA’s headquarters in Al Taweelah. At EGA, we recognise that producing metal essential for the development of a more sustainable society is not enough. It also matters how sustainably aluminium is produced. Many of the decarbonisation challenges we face are shared with other industries, and we must work together to address these challenges."
Climate-Responsible Companies Pledge
During the session, two companies signed the UAE’s Climate-Responsible Companies Pledge: Tadweer Group, and Yellow Door Energy. This takes the total number of signatories to 140. The pledge was launched in 2022 to help the UAE government engage with entities keen to make an active contribution to the nation’s climate neutrality movement and align their efforts to achieve the UAE’s common objective.
By signing the pledge, companies commit to measuring and reporting their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in a transparent manner, developing ambitious science-based plans to reduce their carbon footprint, and sharing these plans with the UAE government to contribute to achieving the national net-zero target by 2050.
They must also factor in climate change mitigation and adaptation as core values and principles of their businesses and operational models, and adopt an all-inclusive approach that engages society in developing their net-zero plans.
Recycling
The event included a panel session focused on increasing aluminium beverage can recycling rates in the UAE and closed with three roundtables discussing the development of the aluminium scrap industry in the UAE, opportunities to reduce the aluminium sector's greenhouse gas emissions through circularity, and the use of aluminium to reduce emissions in different sectors.
During the visit to EGA, Dr Al Dahak inaugurated the region’s first 100 per cent renewable energy powered industrial data centre in Al Taweelah.
EGA developed two data centres in Jebel Ali and Al Taweelah to further deploy artificial intelligence and automation solutions at the heart of the company’s industrial operations, while reducing EGA’s total IT energy consumption by 50%.-
Source: Staff Writer, TradeArabia
Corporate signatories of the ‘Road2.0 powered by UACA’ initiative have published a declaration of their intent to adopt and promote zero emission vehicles (vehicles operating without producing tailpipe emissions), in a first-of-its-kind showcase of the robust corporate demand for EVs in the UAE.
The declaration serves as a call to action for the EV Ecosystem, inviting stakeholders to join forces in order to mobilise the swift uptake of EVs across commercial fleets.
Road2.0 is powered by UACA – the UAE Alliance for Climate Action, which is convened by environmental charity and NGO Emirates Nature-WWF. It is the leading initiative focusing on decarbonising commercial transport in the UAE, endorsed by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI). In addition, UACA is endorsed by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).
Supported by talabat and Unilever, Road2.0 is currently led by 17 signatories that are pioneering efforts to test and scale commercial EVs within their fleet, aiming to potentially achieve 30 percent decarbonisation of signatories’ UAE road transport fleet by 2030, and 100 percent by 2040.
The collaborative endeavour demonstrates strong corporate leadership in support of the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and the UAE’s Demand Side Management Programme (Green Mobility Strategy).
Road2.0 signatories represent diverse economic sectors in the UAE spanning logistics, retail, food and beverage, groceries, fast moving consumer goods and sustainability, amongst others.
The declaration commends the significant momentum and progress towards green mobility that has already taken place in the UAE and outlines additional shifts required to address specific operational needs and commercial EV targets.
By the end of this year, Road2.0 signatories will have put 90 Commercial EVs on UAE roads. Collectively, Road2.0 signatories aim to procure up to 6,000 Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) by 2030, potentially scaling to 20,000 ZEVs by 2040. They seek a variety of vehicles ranging from refrigerated and ambient vehicles, two-wheelers, light-medium duty trucks, passenger buses and vehicles to meet demand.
The full list of Road2.0 signatories currently includes: Advanced Media Trading, Aramex, Arla, Chalhoub Group, Ehfaaz, Enviroserve, Farnek, Kibsons, Landmark Group, Majid Al Futtaim, Nestlé, Positive Zero, RNZ Group, Schneider Electric, talabat, Unilever and Yes Full Circle Solutions.
Sharif Al Olama, Under-Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, said, “Electric vehicles are ready for scalable implementation in the UAE. The domestic EV market is expanding rapidly, powered by huge strides in infrastructure across the country and more entities making the switch towards lower carbon transportation solutions. Road2.0 powered by UACA is in line with our steadfast belief that when government and business are synchronised, we form a powerful force for driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and addressing societal and environmental challenges. The move is in line with the Ministry’s mission of supporting the shift to green mobility and contributing to the country’s goal of increasing the share of EVs to 50 percent of total vehicles on the UAE’s roads by 2050.”
Mohammad Saeed Al Nuaimi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, said, “Road2.0 marks a significant step in our journey towards a cleaner and greener future. Underscoring the power of collaboration, it highlights the importance of public-private partnership in driving action towards a low-carbon economy. It is heartening to see such a widespread support for this initiative which reflects our shared commitment to environmental sustainability. I welcome all our corporate partners for joining this initiative and contributing to the UAE’s climate efforts.
“This initiative marks another step in our drive towards economy-wide emission reduction in line with the nation’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy. The Third Update of the Second NDC for the UAE, released last year, reinforced our commitment to reducing emissions by setting clear plans for all domestic sectors, including the transport sector, to lower net GHG emissions. Decarbonising the transport sector led by EVs will contribute to these goals as a large-scale adoption of EVs is set to be a gamechanger in our emission reduction efforts.”
Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director-General of Emirates Nature-WWF, commented, “We have a unique opportunity not only to chart the future of green transport in the UAE, but also to accelerate a market-wide transition to zero emission vehicles. Road2.0 signatories are committed to potentially achieving 30 percent decarbonisation of commercial road transport fleets by 2030, and 100 percent by 2040. This commitment has already been demonstrated as Road2.0 signatories will have deployed 90 commercial ZEVs on UAE roads by end of 2024. We invite more corporates to take this pledge and look forward to working closely with partners across the EV ecosystem, including Original Equipment Manufacturers, Distributors, Leasing Companies and Third-Party Logistics Providers to advance the implementation of commercial EVs at scale.”
Ahmed Kadous, Head of Supply Chain Personal Care Middle East & Turkey and Head of Customer Operations Arabia, Unilever, which is leading the Road2.0 Working Group on EV Ecosystem Engagement and has led the development of the Declaration, stated, “Unilever is committed to achieving net zero emissions across its value chain by 2039, with a 40 percent reduction in our logistics carbon emissions by 2030 against our 2020 baseline. In 2023, we made a major stride towards our ambitions by becoming the first company in the UAE to add an electric van and a 40T electric truck to our logistics fleet. We are eager to expedite our implementation of EVs on a larger scale and recognise the importance of joining forces with the larger ecosystem – through Road2.0 powered by UACA – to drive the transformation of the logistics environment.”
Source: WAM
Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) today announced that it has forged a strategic partnership with ADNEC Group to power ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi entirely with renewable and clean energy, making it the first and largest event venue in the Middle East to utilise clean energy.
The landmark partnership sets a benchmark for the decarbonisation of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions (MICE) sector across the UAE.
The agreement was signed at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi by Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC, and Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group. The signing was witnessed by key representatives from both organisations.
As a leading events space in the Middle East, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi hosts year-round international exhibitions and events, welcoming exhibitors, visitors and business professionals from around the world.
Through this new strategic partnership, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi will have 100 percent of its grid power supplied by EWEC’s renewable and clean energy sources, verified through the provision of Clean Energy Certificates (CECs) issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE).
This strategic partnership will significantly reduce the carbon emissions of major exhibitions and events hosted by ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi and will position ADNEC Group as a global leader in sustainable event management.
Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC, said, “We are delighted to partner with ADNEC Group to decarbonise ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi’s grid power consumption. EWEC is driving the increase in renewable and clean energy adoption in the UAE, making it easier and quicker for organisations to reduce their Scope 2 emissions and decarbonise their operations. By strategically increasing renewable and clean energy capacity and simultaneously empowering Abu Dhabi organisations to decarbonise, EWEC is accelerating the delivery of the UAE’s clean energy transition. This strategic partnership with ADNEC Group provides a benchmark for decarbonising major international events hosted in Abu Dhabi in line with the UAE’s net zero targets and reflects EWEC’s continued advancement of pioneering sustainable initiatives.”
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of ADNEC Group, stated, “ADNEC Group’s partnership with EWEC emphasises our strategic focus on sustainability through the adoption and use of renewable and clean energy, aligning with the UAE’s objectives and national targets for sustainable development. By decarbonising ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi’s grid power consumption, we are setting a new decarbonisation benchmark within the UAE’s business tourism industry and reaffirming Abu Dhabi’s position as the capital of sustainable events and exhibitions sector in the region.”
Source: Staff Writer, WAM (Emirates News Agency)
The financial sector faces a critical challenge in managing financed emissions—the carbon footprint linked to their lending, investment, and insurance portfolios. With banks holding an estimated $4.6 trillion in carbon-intensive assets, potential losses could reach $20 trillion if the Net Zero transition is mismanaged. However, financial institutions often struggle with inaccurate data, inconsistent reporting standards, complex engagement dynamics with investees, and time-consuming processes, making the journey toward decarbonization daunting.
Recognizing these challenges, Olive Gaea developed Zero—an AI-driven SaaS platform specifically designed to address the unique needs of the BFSI sector. Drawing on extensive experience with financial institutions, Zero is built to solve critical issues in financed emissions management by integrating accurate data, engaging strategically with investees, enhancing efficiency, and providing real-time actionable insights for decarbonization.
The Challenges of Financed Emissions
Financed emissions usually represent 90%+ of a financial institution’s carbon footprint but are notoriously difficult to measure and manage. Key challenges include:
Zero: The Solution to Financed Emissions Management
Zero is more than an ESG reporting tool; it is a comprehensive platform that integrates carbon and ESG management into a seamless solution. By automating the decarbonization journey, Zero provides financial institutions with real-time insights and tools needed to measure, manage, reduce, and report emissions accurately and efficiently.
Key Features of Zero’s Financed Emissions Module:
Our extensive experience with BFSI clients has given us deep insights into their challenges, particularly around investee engagement and managing data accuracy. Zero’s engagement module was designed not just to collect data but to foster collaboration on transition financing. By integrating asset-level and sector-specific data, Zero helps financial institutions make informed decisions based on the most accurate information available, with unparalleled efficiency.
“The financial sector is at a pivotal moment in the fight against climate change. With regulatory pressures intensifying and stakeholder expectations rising, financial institutions need advanced, reliable solutions to manage their financed emissions effectively,” says Vivek, Co-Founder & CEO of Olive Gaea. “Zero is designed to provide financial institutions with more than just data—it delivers actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making.”
As financial institutions navigate the complexities of the Net Zero transition, platforms like Zero are essential, offering the clarity, precision, efficiency, and strategic guidance needed to make impactful decisions. By integrating accurate data, advanced analytics, and active engagement capabilities, Zero stands out as the ultimate tool for managing financed emissions and driving the BFSI sector’s climate action agenda forward.