Aster Pharmacy’s retail outlets around Dubai launched a new ‘Go Green Carry Clean’ initiative, introduced in response to the UAE government’s latest mandate, prohibiting single-use plastics from June 1st, 2024. The campaign encouraged UAE residents to swap plastic bags with sustainable and reusable bags and bring it with them for any shopping expedition. The widespread initiative promoted a larger cultural shift encouraging UAE residents to start using sustainable bags which are environment friendly, reusable and becomes the standard whenever customers make their purchase.

The initiative saw over 280,000 reusable bags being given to customers free of cost. This also included the pharmacy staff actively encouraging the customers entering the store with plastic bags to replace it with free durable and sustainable Aster Pharmacy branded sustainable bags. Based on the success of the pilot findings, Aster Pharmacy will look at expanding these low-cost, easy-to-implement tactics, potentially catalysing a national cultural change towards reusable bags.

“As we roll out these reusable bag solutions throughout our Aster pharmacy locations and learn about customer behaviours, we realize the potential of collective retail action. With everyone’s motivation, devotion, dedication and teamwork, we will continue to make a difference in creating a more sustainable environment for both the present and future generations,” said Mr. N.S Balasubramanian, CEO of Aster Retail.

“This is also a part of our long-term effort over the years to transition to zero-plastic at all our stores which saw us transition to paper bags and even turn our stores into eco-friendly stores through interiors being built with sustainable and recyclable materials,” added Mr. N.S Balasubramanian.

Aster Pharmacy, a part of the Aster DM Healthcare Group and a leading retail chain in the GCC, sees an annual footfall of 10 million people across its 250+ stores. Over the last five years, in alignment with the UAE Government’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution, Aster Pharmacy had undertaken various efforts to introduce eco-friendly policies in its retail stores with interiors built with sustainable and recyclable materials. Aster pharmacy’s proactive efforts to replace plastic bags with recyclable paper bags is now complete with 7.4 million paper bags being used annually to serve the pharmacies customers – a practice that has been in existence for the past four years.

This is also in alignment with Aster DM Healthcare’s ESG policy to reduce the group’s carbon footprint. Waste recycling for the last year included 76,555 kilograms of plastic waste, 446,977 kilograms of paper waste, and 5,506 kilograms of e-waste. The organization’s waste management practices encompass various categories, including biomedical, plastic, food, metals, paper, and cardboard. Aster prioritizes waste segregation at the source, enabling efficient recycling of recyclable materials.

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has launched the National Green Certificates Programme, which aims to promote environmentally friendly building practices in line with the objectives of the National Demand-side Management Programme and the National Green Building Regulation.

The National Green Certificates Programme sets specific standards for building classification in regard to energy efficiency, water management, indoor air quality, and the use of sustainable building materials.

MoEI will offer technical support and consultations for participating businesses to ensure the highest level of sustainability.

Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said, “The Programme is a framework for classifications and requirements for enhancing sustainability and cutting down the carbon footprint of commercial buildings through identifying unified basics that ensure the latest world-class criteria for sustainable buildings are applied. We at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure are committed to advancing sustainable, environment-friendly practices across the board. The Programme is another step in our journey to drive a green economy and sustainable development.”

For his part, Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, said that the Programme aligns with the ministry’s keenness to integrate environmental sustainability and decarbonisation measures in the building sector. It will help reduce energy and water consumption and slash the sector’s carbon footprint. This will contribute to the UAE’s net-zero by 2050 target and will help build an infrastructure that can meet the development needs of the future.

To support the Programme, the ministry signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). The first MoU was with First Abu Dhabi Bank, where they agreed to explore potential collaborations in green finance solutions to enhance the UAE’s built environment sector. This includes participation in the National Green Certificates Programme and supporting the UAE’s energy efficiency targets through innovative financing solutions. It also includes the development and promotion of green finance products for the built environment sector and the execution of joint initiatives to promote energy-efficient practices and technologies in the industry.

The second MoU was with Aldar Properties to implement green finance solutions specifically tailored to enhance the built environment sector in the UAE. This includes Aldar Properties’ participation in the Programme, discovering the potential to finance this Programme, and providing technical services. They also agreed to implement joint initiatives to promote energy-efficient practices and technologies in the built environment sector.

The third was with Pact Carbon, where the company joins the Programme and supports other participants access global markets to sell carbon credits.

The fourth MoU was with Meagle Energy to establish a framework of cooperation between the parties to provide energy auditing and Measurement and Verification (M&V) services to the Ministry for the National Green Certificates Programme. Meagle Energy will conduct energy audits in accordance with the standards and guidelines set forth by MoEI.

Source: Esraa Esmail, WAM (Emirates News Agency)

Imdaad, one of the Middle East’s leading Integrated Facility Management companies, has firmly positioned itself as a frontrunner in fostering sustainable community living spaces. The company’s unwavering dedication to integrating sustainability into the fabric of community management aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s national targets and the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This alignment is encapsulated in the Istidamah sustainability framework, which targets several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Imdaad’s proactive approach to climate action is evident in its energy management and renewable energy initiatives, which significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, through smart irrigation systems and greywater recycling initiatives, Imdaad supports the sustainable management of water resources, ensuring efficient water use and the availability of clean water. The implementation of smart grids and energy management systems further enhances energy reliability and efficiency.

Over the years, Imdaad has witnessed a significant evolution in sustainability standards and regulations. Today, clients expect broader sustainability initiatives that encompass energy efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, water conservation, and sustainable procurement, in addition to internationally recognized certifications like ISO 14001 for environmental management systems. The pursuit of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for green buildings has become increasingly important, reflecting a commitment to sustainable construction and operational practices. Imdaad has responded to these evolving standards by achieving and maintaining ISO 14001 certification, developing comprehensive environmental policies, and actively pursuing LEED certification for the properties it manages.

Technological innovation plays a pivotal role in Imdaad’s sustainability strategy. The company leverages advanced Building Management Systems (BMS) to optimize the operation of HVAC, lighting, and other systems, enhancing operational efficiency and comfort. Furthermore, the company deploys innovative techniques to conserve water, reducing the reliance on fresh water. The use of sustainable materials empowers Imdaad to mitigate environmental impact.

Additionally, real-time energy monitoring tools provide continuous data on energy usage, enabling prompt corrective actions to prevent wastage. These technologies lead to substantial energy savings, reduced carbon footprint, and improved environmental performance, significantly contributing to the overall sustainability of the properties managed by Imdaad.

Implementing sustainable practices comes with its own set of challenges. Integrating new technologies into existing systems can be complex and disruptive, but Imdaad employs a phased approach to ensure minimal disruption to operations. The company also invests in continuous training for staff to ensure smooth adaptation and proficient use of new technologies. Regulatory compliance and keeping up with evolving standards require constant updates and efforts. Imdaad maintains a dedicated compliance team to monitor regulatory changes and ensure timely adherence. The company also participates in industry forums and collaborates with regulatory bodies to stay ahead of emerging requirements.

While shifting the mindset of employees and stakeholders towards sustainability can be challenging, Imdaad fosters an eco-conscious culture through comprehensive education and engagement programs. One of the most prevalent bottlenecks in this endeavor, beyond education and awareness, is the resource constraints and operational pressures. These require a balance between sustainability initiatives and day-to-day operational demands.

Looking ahead, Imdaad remains committed to advancing its sustainability initiatives and expanding its portfolio of green-certified properties. The company plans to increase the installation of solar panels across its managed properties, deploy more sophisticated irrigation systems to optimize water use, and develop waste-to-energy facilities to convert non-recyclable waste into energy. Imdaad also aims to increase the number of properties that achieve LEED certification and seek other international green certifications to enhance the sustainability credentials of its portfolio.

Continuous sustainability training programs for employees and expanded community engagement initiatives will promote a broader culture of environmental stewardship. Through proactive strategies and innovative solutions, Imdaad continues to set a benchmark in the facilities management sector, contributing significantly to the UAE’s and global sustainability goals.

As part of its awareness campaign ‘Welcome Summer with Green Habits’, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has urged customers to regularly monitor water leak indicators for internal connections and promptly fix any leaks to avoid waste and damage to properties. DEWA has emphasised the importance of regularly checking for possible leaks to protect natural resources.

DEWA highlighted that water spots on floors, walls, and roofs, or around washing machines are likely due to leaks in internal connections or the house irrigation system within the property. Customers can also detect leakages through their bills or smart water meters. Water tanks, bathrooms, kitchens, and swimming pools are the most likely areas where leakages can occur. Leakages from water tanks are often due to deterioration of the tank body, connections, or improper positioning. Ageing and lack of maintenance can also cause leaks in taps, pipes, toilet tanks, and water heaters. Customers are encouraged to conduct a leak test for taps twice a year by switching off all water devices and checking the water meter.

Additionally, DEWA recommends that water tanks and internal connections comply with its specifications to ensure water supply availability. Internal water pipes should be connected to the water tank and not directly to the main water line. Water tanks should also undergo regular maintenance to prevent blockages.

DEWA highlighted the efficiency of its systems in detecting any flaws in the external connections before the meter and noted that its responsibility is limited to connections and maintenance until the meter only, while the internal connections after the meters are the customer’s responsibility. This applies to residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

DEWA provides innovative digital services and features that enable customers to monitor and manage their consumption efficiently. This includes the Smart Living Dashboard, the High-Water Usage Alert service, the Smart Response, and the Away Mode feature. DEWA’s emergency number 991 is available for urgent technical notifications. Tips and guidelines to manage consumption more efficiently are available on:

https://www.dewa.gov.ae/en/consumer/sustainability/sustainability-and-conservation

The United States Green Building Council (USGBC) awarded a Gold rating to the Business Bay 05 district cooling plant, owned and operated by Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower), the world’s largest district cooling services provider. This recognition for the Business Bay 05 district cooling plant is a result of the successful adherence to the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards set by the US Green Building Council. The award is the sixth gold achieved by Empower for its state-of-the-art district cooling plants after Business Bay 02 & 03, Za’abeel, Al Barsha Heights, and JVC.

By achieving this prestigious green building certification, Empower reaffirms its commitment to environmental protection, reducing carbon footprint, and demonstrating its dedication to innovation and sustainability. This accomplishment further enhances the company’s impressive portfolio of assets that have previously received similar accolades.

His Excellency Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower said; “Empower strives to be a leader in environmentally friendly cooling. We go beyond building district cooling plants to achieve the highest green building standards, by establishing a sustainable model to save energy without harming the environment and its resources, taking into account the architectural design of Dubai’s evolving urban environment.”

“To this end, we work closely with various government entities for Dubai to achieve the desired goal as envisaged in its carbon reduction strategy, and Empower has a long history of notable operational achievements in accelerating the transformation of its large portfolio of plant assets to keep pace the government’s strategy”, he added. 

Business Bay 05 district cooling plant operates with smart and innovative technologies developed by Empower for which it has received global appreciation. The plant is equipped with Thermal Energy Storage (TES), which contributes to saving a significant amount of electrical energy. Empower also uses Treated Sewage Effluent (TSE) technology in the plant’s operations to reduce freshwater consumption and preserve natural resources for future generations.

The Government of Umm Al Qaiwain is committed to intensifying efforts to promote environmental sustainability by preserving natural resources. This commitment is demonstrated through the launch of initiatives aimed at achieving positive change in alignment with sustainable development goals.

The emirate has adopted and implemented various initiatives to protect the environment, most notably the Umm Al Qaiwain Sustainable Blue Economy Strategy. This strategy lays out a clear foundation for the future growth of the emirate. It is a comprehensive, developmental and transformative strategy that identifies promising economic opportunities in line with global trends.

The strategy aims to increase the share of the blue economy in the emirate’s GDP to no less than 40 percent by focusing on several marine economic sectors, such as maritime transport, eco-tourism, blue carbon, sustainable fisheries, and climate-neutral industrial zones.

On the sidelines of the COP28 conference, the Government of Umm Al Qaiwain launched an initiative to develop a set of guidelines for the Sustainable Blue Economy Strategy.

This initiative is in partnership with the Ministry of Economy, the Emirates Nature-WWF, and the World Wildlife Fund. The initiative includes key sectors that encourage the private sector to adopt sustainable practices, such as tourism, recreation, the built environment, and seafood.

In an effort to protect the environment from the dangers of plastic pollution, reduce the negative impacts of incorrect practices, and promote a culture of environmental protection and sustainability, the Executive Council of Umm Al Qaiwain issued a decision in January of this year regarding the regulation of single-use products in the emirate’s markets.

This decision mandates the reduction of production and consumption of single-use products and ensures the continuous availability of sustainable and reusable alternatives in all shopping centres, retail stores, and sales outlets.

The environmental initiatives in the Year of Sustainability 2023 have continued into this year, 2024, as part of extending the Year of Sustainability initiative to enhance the quality of life in the emirate.

Umm Al Qaiwain Municipality has implemented numerous initiatives and campaigns contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals. These efforts are in line with the strategic plan of the Government of Umm Al Qaiwain to enhance strategic partnerships and build effective best practices in sustainability. These initiatives include signing agreements to improve agricultural services in the emirate and enhance the quality of life by maintaining green spaces, launching a tree-planting initiative in the emirate’s industrial areas, specifically in the Umm Al Thuoob area, where ghaf tree saplings were distributed to over 150 factories to promote sustainable agricultural practices, and preserve a healthy environment and the emirate’s overall aesthetic.

Additionally, the Planting Week, “Together, Let’s Plant the UAE,” was implemented in February, during which various environmental initiatives were carried out, including the distribution of free plant saplings to the residents of the emirate. Awareness campaigns and educational programmes were also conducted in schools and universities to emphasise the importance of environmental preservation. Community initiatives supporting sustainable environmental practices were launched to promote a healthy environment and a sustainable lifestyle for everyone.

In light of the importance of innovation and its role in achieving sustainability, Innovation Month in Umm Al Qaiwain saw the implementation of numerous programmes and activities by government agencies and institutions in the emirate, highlighting the significance of innovation in promoting sustainability. These activities included exhibitions, workshops, and educational lectures.

Community initiatives in Umm Al Qaiwain were diverse, including those that highlighted the connection between art and the environment. One such event was the “Art UAQ” held in February, which integrated art and environmental culture by showcasing the works of 25 local artists. This festival presented a unique blend of cultural heritage with a series of interactive activities that helped spread awareness and encourage participation in environmental events.

Another notable community initiative was the “Greening Our World” campaign, recently executed by Umm Al Qaiwain Mall. This initiative aimed to promote environmental stewardship by planting 1,000 saplings in various schools across the emirate. Additionally, the mall hosted an exhibition of handicrafts inspired by sustainability principles and a clean energy inventions exhibit featuring eco-friendly products.

Various institutions in Umm Al Qaiwain continue to implement initiatives in the second half of this year that emphasise the importance of environmental protection, the Year of Sustainability, and the preservation of natural resources for future generations. These efforts aim to achieve sustainable development that balances economic growth with environmental conservation.

Source: WAM

Dubai headquartered Tristar Group has released its annual sustainability report for the 12th year in succession, encompassing its operations and activities around the globe. Group CEO Eugene Mayne launched the Tristar 2023 Sustainability Report at the company’s head office in Jebel Ali which coincided with two events: celebration of World Environment Day and implementation of The Climate Fresk, a workshop that teaches fundamental science behind climate change, facilitated by Living Business.

The report details Tristar’s alignment with the UAE’s vision of achieving Net Zero by 2050 and enumerates all its actions towards upholding the UAE Climate-Responsible Companies Pledge spearheaded by the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), and the Faster Forward initiative launched by the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC).

The 12th consecutive report of the international energy logistics group continues to adhere to global frameworks like the UNGC, United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC), and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards for sustainability reporting.

“As an energy logistics firm, Tristar was early in donning the mantle of a greater responsibility towards sustainability,” Mayne explained. “Our robust Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework was developed more than a decade ago and is sustained through regular discussions, consultations, and actions. Along with several new initiatives, this continues to serve as our roadmap for integrating sustainability into all business operations.”

He added that the creation of the Clean Energy division in 2023 is a new initiative to decarbonise Tristar’s operations, and to work with like-minded partners to bring sustainable solutions to market and help achieve low carbon transformation and net zero targets.

Open to exploring different clean energy options, Tristar is studying the feasibility of solar PV, biofuels, dual fuel technologies, electrification, and green hydrogen mobility across its operations.

The report also highlights the company’s participation at COP28 in affiliation with the World Green Economy Organization (WGEO), where Tristar’s ESG Committee members shared their efforts and experiences in energy efficiency, low-carbon fuels, and solar energy generation at various panel discussions.

Jumeirah celebrated on June 12 the 20th anniversary of its Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP), by hosting a panel discussion on the collective efforts needed to protect the ocean.

Entitled ‘Out of Sight is not Out of Mind: Our Collective Responsibility to Preserve our Ocean’, the panel took place in Dubai this morning ahead of World Sea Turtle Day (June 16).

Led by a group of global experts, including Razan Al Mubarak, President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN); Barbara Lang-Lenton, Director of Aquarium at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and DTRP lead; Jo Ruxton, Founder and Director of Ocean Generation; and Dr Juan Antonio Romero, Mission Blue Scientist, Marine Biologist, and Filmmaker, the discussion delved into the most pressing challenges facing our ocean today.

The panel underscored that marine conservation is a shared global challenge requiring collaboration among governments, organisations, businesses, and individuals.

They also shared examples of innovative solutions and best practices for ocean conservation, highlighting the critical role of education, awareness-raising, and youth engagement in shaping a sustainable future for the ocean.

Razan Al Mubarak, the global leader in biodiversity, who has spearheaded progressive environmental protection and species conservation around the world, said: “Over the past twenty years, the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project has demonstrated the powerful role of corporate responsibility in the sphere of environmental care.

“I commend their ongoing commitment to the health and vitality of marine life, which is crucial for maintaining our ecosystems’ balance.”

Barbara Lang-Lenton, said: “I am incredibly proud to celebrate two decades of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project. Not only is it an important milestone for Jumeirah, it is also testament to Dubai and the wider UAE’s efforts in enhancing biodiversity through conservation programmes.”

Ruxton said: “My mission is to bridge the gap between people and the ocean. Everyone needs to understand how vital a healthy ocean is to our survival; it supports all life on our blue planet.

“The ocean is also our biggest ally when it comes to climate change, yet we recklessly exploit and damage this fragile ecosystem.”

Dr Romero said: “In order to protect ourselves and the world as we see it today we have to protect the ocean. Without the ocean there would be no life.

“Education, public awareness, and science are part of bridging the gap between the ocean and us. Providing tangible ways in which individuals can support this cause is also paramount in our mission to preserve and protect these precious ecosystems.”

Prior to the event, Jumeirah, together with community members, guests and partners, released 63 rehabilitated turtles back into their natural habitat.

This included Hawksbills, Green turtles, and Loggerheads, bringing the total number of turtles released by the DTRP to more than 2,175 since its launch in 2004.

Among the turtles released was Barney, a 31kg young adult male Hawksbill turtle who was discovered in March in the Jebel Ali Area with an injury on his plastron – or shell as more commonly known. After receiving dedicated care and treatment, Barney made a full recovery and was returned to the ocean to rapturous applause.

Looking ahead to World Sea Turtle Day this Sunday, a range of sea turtle conservation activities have been organised across Jumeirah’s portfolio.

In Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, in partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), The National Aquarium, and Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue, hosted an intimate release of 50 sea turtles on its pristine beach.

Additionally, guests at Jumeirah Olhahali Island, Maldives will enjoy a mix of complimentary and bookable turtle-themed experiences.

These will include a marine talk from the in-house marine biologist, guided snorkelling around Olhahali Island’s house reef, sand sculpture making, sustainable seafood dinners at its all-day dining pool-side restaurant, Glow, yoga sessions with turtle inspired poses at Talise Spa, and unique room decorations, all aimed at promoting sea turtle conservation and awareness. –

Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

Source: TradeArabia

• 92% of Company-wide sustainability targets achieved in 2023.
• Launched the second phase of ‘Dare Today, Change Tomorrow’ sustainability strategy with renewed 2028 Sustainable Business Commitments.
• Issued a third Green Sukuk valued at USD 500 million, bringing its total sustainable finance instruments to USD 4.95 billion.
• Achieved a 24% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions across the Company compared to the 2019 baseline.

Majid Al Futtaim, a leading shopping mall, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, today published its 2023 Sustainability Report. The Group, which achieved 92% of its company-wide sustainability targets in 2023, launched the second phase of its ‘Dare Today, Change Tomorrow’ sustainability strategy, with renewed 2028 Sustainable Business Commitments.

Majid Al Futtaim’s ‘Dare Today, Change Tomorrow’ strategy aims to positively contribute to climate resiliency and inclusive economic development. Since its inception in 2018, the strategy has significantly evolved, shaping the Group’s operations and driving initiatives that support its 2028 Sustainable Business Commitments. This holistic approach has led to notable advancements in sustainable finance, securing green building certifications, eliminating single-use plastics, and promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Today, the ‘Dare Today, Change Tomorrow’ strategy continues to be rooted in creating long-term value for the regions in which the Group operates. Covering the period from 1 January to 31 December 2023, the sixth Group-wide annual report demonstrates Majid Al Futtaim’s sound management of ESG risks and opportunities, as well as its progress towards delivering on its sustainability targets across three strategic focus areas: Rethinking Resources, by rethinking the use of our resources to make a net positive impact;  Transforming Lives, by providing a healthy, sustainable and fulfilling way of life for the communities we serve;  Empowering Our People, by unlocking their full potential.

Majid Al Futtaim’s adoption of sustainable finance within its capital structure has been a key strategy in enabling the success of its ESG initiatives. To date, the Company has raised a total of USD 4.95 billion through various sustainable instruments, including three Green Sukuk, one green hybrid bond, and two sustainability-linked loans. These funding actions have improved the Company’s sustainability disclosures to the broader market, aligning it with best practices while linking its ESG performance to how it finances its operational and capital expenditure. This approach also embeds accountability for the ESG implications of its activities. Additionally, Majid Al Futtaim completed its first disclosure aligned with the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), placing it in the top 3% of early adopters in the MENA region.

Ahmed Galal Ismail, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim, commented: “Our sustainability actions in 2023, aligned to our three pillars of Rethinking Resources, Transforming Lives and Empowering Our People, delivered impressive results as highlighted in this report. For Majid Al Futtaim, and our region, this year presented important milestones in sustainability. Notable progress was made towards securing the region’s long-term prosperity, demonstrating our resoluteness in delivering value-accretive, profitable, and sustainable growth. This progress allowed us to confidently enter the second phase of our ‘Dare Today, Change Tomorrow’ strategy, renewing our steadfast commitment to people and the planet.”

Rethinking Resources

Guided by robust policies that are aligned with the Group’s environmental commitments, the Rethinking Resources initiatives set requirements in the areas of carbon, water, climate resilience, nature—based solutions, and circular economy.  

Working towards its goal to achieve Net Positive operations by 2040, Majid Al Futtaim certified 2,070 additional assets, residential units and neighbourhood communities to LEED, BREEAM, or equivalent, reaching a total of 3,181 certified assets in 2023.

Furthermore, the Company achieved a 24% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions compared to the 2019 baseline. This was supported by milestone initiatives like the signing of the 36,000 kWp Power Purchase Agreement to provide solar power to 18 shopping malls in the UAE, Bahrain, and Oman.

In partnership with Project Maji, a non-profit social enterprise, a rural Kenyan community was provided 1.9 million litres of clean water. Given the success of this partnership, we aim to expand this initiative across other countries of operation.

Transforming Lives

Committed to having a positive and lasting impact on the communities which it serves, Majid Al Futtaim has taken steps to promote local economic development, drive innovation, and enhance customer wellbeing across its operations. In line with the Company’s Sustainable Procurement Policy, 80% of spending in 2023 was with suppliers local to Majid Al Futtaim operations. The Company also invested in six additional infrastructure projects in residential communities, including the opening of Distrikt at Tilal Al Ghaf, Dubai.

Majid Al Futtaim has also sought to support regional entrepreneurship, selecting seven innovative start-ups winners of its Launchpad programme in 2023, having received over 400 applicants since the programme’s launch. The Company also provided 57 internship opportunities to Emirati students through a partnership with the UAE Ministry of Education, and donated AED 9.8 million to charities supporting social causes.

The Group has recruited approximately 2,000 UAE nationals since September 2021, with a target to hire 3,000 Emiratis across its UAE workforce by 2026. The Company was awarded the Best Large Company in Achieving Emiratisation Targets at the 2023 NAFIS Awards, demonstrating its commitment to developing home-grown talent and driving the UAE’s economic leadership and competitiveness.  

Empowering Our People

Majid Al Futtaim is committed to empowering its people with the necessary tools and support to fully realise their full potential. In 2023, LinkedIn Top Companies ranked Majid Al Futtaim as the 4th best workplace to grow your career in the UAE.

Representation of women in the top three seniority levels increased to 26%, meeting the 23% target set for 2023 through our sustainability-linked loan. Additionally, Majid Al Futtaim held its 7th annual Wellness Week, spanning 10 countries with over 25,000 engagements and achieved over 40,556,000 safe working hours across its construction projects.

Climate Action

2023 was a remarkable year for the United Arab Emirates, with Dubai playing host to COP28 and the first Global Stocktake on progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement. With that, the Company doubled down on emissions reduction, signing a further 20,000 kW solar power agreement with Engazaat to power four malls in Egypt and Lebanon. Majid Al Futtaim also invested in 250 carbon credits through Dubai Financial Market’s (DFM) carbon credit platform pilot project and partnered with the American University in Cairo as a founding partner in the launch of the Executive Diploma in Sustainability.

You can access the full report here.

Tabreed, the world’s leading district cooling company, today reported that its operations reduced overall energy consumption by 2.52 billion kWh – equivalent to powering more than 143,000 homes – which, in turn, prevented 1.5 million metric tonnes of CO2 emissions, which equates to removing 330,000 vehicles from the road.

According to its fourth annual Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report for 2023, published today, Tabreed had an overwhelmingly positive environmental impact during 2023, with renewable energy becoming a permanent fixture in the company’s operations.

In partnership with ADNOC, Tabreed designed, built and commissioned G2COOL, the region’s first district cooling plant to be powered using renewable geothermal energy from deep underground. The plant plays an important new role in decarbonising the way buildings are cooled in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City, while diversifying the country’s energy mix in support of the UAE National Energy Strategy 2050.

In a further renewable energy initiative, in 2023, Tabreed purchased 116,000 MWh of solar-sourced Clean Energy Certificates (CECs) from the Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC), demonstrating its commitment to a diverse energy mix. These CECs are equivalent to the amount of energy required to cool prominent locations such as Masdar City, Raha Beach, and key attractions on Yas Island.

The report further highlighted that Tabreed joined a highly anticipated carbon credits trading pilot by Dubai Financial Market (DFM), which saw 24 of the UAE’s most esteemed companies and developers taking part, including Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), DP World, Dubai Municipality, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Emirates NBD and Majid Al Futtaim. The carbon credits traded on DFM were supplied by DEWA, First Abu Dhabi Bank and MyCarbon, coming from internationally certified carbon projects around the world.

Tabreed spent 2023 being increasingly active in the community, through a range of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. For instance, assisting startups and young entrepreneurs working on climate solutions, the company sponsored and partnered with HUB71+ climateTECH and, during the Holy Month of Ramadan, Tabreed partnered with Emirates Red Crescent to provide many thousands of meals to underprivileged members of the community. Closer to home, in a move designed to improve the work/life balance for Tabreed’s staff, remote workday allowances were increased by 50 percent and a ‘personal hours’ policy was introduced.

“In short,” said Khalid Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s CEO, “this incredible, visionary company spent 2023 reaffirming its reputation as an undeniable force for good. Good for our customers, our investors, our staff, our communities and our environment. I am immensely proud to lead Tabreed and look forward to even greater achievements in the years to come.”

Source: WAM