Borouge Plc, a leading petrochemicals company that provides innovative and differentiated polyolefins solutions, has committed to achieving net zero across its scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 2045.
The commitment is an extension of the Company’s best practice approach to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, supporting the UAE’s sustainability goals. The UAE was the first country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to commit to net zero and has launched a national Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, setting out a clear pathway for achieving its objective.
To achieve net-zero emissions in its operations, Borouge has set intermediate targets for a 25 percent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity and a 30 percent reduction in energy intensity by 2030. The company will continue its energy efficiency programme and explore new technology and decarbonisation levers, including advancements in the areas of electrification and carbon capture.
Hazeem Sultan Al Suwaidi, CEO of Borouge, said, “As an industrial champion of the UAE with an extensive international footprint, Borouge embraces the significant role that it can play in providing mitigating solutions to climate change. Our differentiated products are increasingly deployed in renewable energy infrastructure, sustainable mobility, agriculture, and advanced packaging. We are taking strong strides in promoting a circular economy. Inspired by the UAE’s climate ambition, Borouge is resolutely pursuing net zero in its own operations, aiming for an accelerated timeframe of 2045. This marks a substantial step forward in our sustainability journey and we are committed to tracking our progress through a robust governance framework that includes best practice measurement and disclosure.”
In Borouge’s case, scope 1 includes GHG emissions from the manufacture and processing of its high-quality polyethylene and polypropylene. Meanwhile, Borouge’s scope 2 emissions are attributed to energy consumption, including those from the electricity, heating, and cooling used during production.
Borouge has set interim 2030 goals to achieve its ambitions and will continue to pursue resource efficiency alongside decarbonising its operations. The Company’s commitment to successful energy-saving initiatives achieved a 30 percent reduction in emission intensity in 2023 compared to the 2018 baseline, which surpassed the Company’s 25 percent reduction goal for 2030 seven years ahead of schedule.
Source: Amjad Saleh, WAM (Emirates News Agency)
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), a leading Islamic financial institution, has announced the signing of an affiliate partnership agreement with Tesla, to offer financing to Tesla car buyers at affordable profit rates starting 1.79% through ADIB’s electrical car financing program “ VOLT”. The partnership will also provide Tesla buyers a free wall charger and complimentary home installation part of the finance package during the Ramadan campaign until 31st of March 2024.
As part of this collaboration, ADIB branches will host self-serve test drives of Tesla vehicles, allowing ADIB customers to experience the innovative technology first hand at their own convenience. Tesla vehicles will be stationed at selected branches, where customers can scan a QR code to schedule their test drive and then download the Tesla App to complete necessary documentation, including uploading their Emirates ID or Driving License, and participate in a test drive. Tesla will oversee the entire process virtually, including remote lock/unlock capabilities for the vehicles.
In addition to this, ADIB will install electric vehicle (EV) chargers at key branches and its headquarters, contributing to the infrastructure necessary for sustainable transportation options.
Amit Malhotra, Global Head of Retail Banking at ADIB, commented: “At ADIB, we believe in driving positive change while offering value to our customers. This collaboration with Tesla allows us to do both. By installing EV chargers at our branches and headquarters, we’re contributing to the development of a robust EV infrastructure in the UAE. Additionally, our competitive financing rates and incentives encourage sustainable choices, aligning with our commitment to green finance and our ESG strategy.”
This partnership underscores ADIB’s commitment to green finance and innovation, aligning with its mission to deliver value and convenience to customers while promoting sustainability. This collaboration also aligns with ADIB’s recently unveiled ESG strategy.
The bank recently launched the Volt Electric Vehicle Finance program, offering a highly competitive financing rate of 1.79%, the lowest in the industry for new electric cars. The Volt program aligns with ADIB’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitment and aims to make electric vehicle ownership financially accessible to a wider audience.
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For media information, please visit www.adib.ae or contact:
ADIB Edelman
Lamia Khaled Hariz Simon Hailes
Head of Public Affairs Director of Financial Communications
Burjeel Holdings has announced a new long-term Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, setting ambitious targets across four key pillars, in a bold move towards sustainable practices. At the heart of this strategy is a pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040, signaling a shift towards a greener, more equitable future.
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, said, “The nature of our business is clearly about sustaining our society by providing healthcare across the community, and we are seeking to align fully with the best international standards on environmental stewardship and governance.
One of our key ESG priorities has been to strengthen and formalise our public market-oriented corporate governance. At the time of the IPO, we created a Board of acknowledged experts, of whom 70% are independent directors, and in 2023 we established a Business Development and Sustainability Committee to ensure that we integrate sustainability across our entire business.”
At the forefront of Burjeel Holdings’ ESG strategy is its pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. To realise this vision, the organisation has set mid-term targets for reducing combined Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2024.
Additionally, by 2025, the organisation will develop a strategy to account for Scope 3 carbon emissions. Beyond carbon neutrality, Burjeel Holdings is committed to eliminating waste, aiming for zero waste to landfill by 2040. It also aims to reduce water consumption by 10% by 2030, with a focus on reusing 5% of total water consumed annually.
Burjeel Holdings seeks to positively impact over 7 million lives per year by 2026 through various community initiatives. Encouraging employee engagement, the organisation aims to have 30% of corporate employees participate in at least one community volunteer activity annually starting in 2025.
Recognising the importance of patient care, Burjeel Holdings plans to implement patient education programmes for 70% of active patients with chronic conditions by 2026. Regular patient satisfaction surveys will be conducted to ensure a satisfaction rate of 85% or higher, with a focus on continuous improvement.
The organisation aims to ensure 100% of healthcare staff complete patient safety training annually by 2026, prioritising the well-being of both patients and employees.
Burjeel Holdings places a strong emphasis on governance, aiming to maintain a high percentage (50%) of independent directors on its board. Employee training programmes on data privacy and security, ethics and compliance will be integral to fostering a culture of integrity and responsibility within the organisation.
In line with its commitment to excellence, Burjeel Holdings aims to have all hospitals in Abu Dhabi accredited by the Abu Dhabi Healthcare Information and Cyber Security Standard (ADHICS) and achieve ISO 27001 certification for all remaining hospitals by 2027, ensuring the highest standards of quality and security.
With a goal of increasing the representation of women in leadership roles to 30% or higher by 2030, the company aims to foster a diverse and inclusive work environment. Additionally, Burjeel Holdings is committed to maintaining a balanced gender ratio (50:50) by 2030 and providing health and safety training for all employees by 2025.
Striving for excellence, Burjeel Holdings aims to have all hospitals accredited by the JCI permanently, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and safety. Employee satisfaction will be a priority, with a target employee satisfaction score of 95% by 2026 and a reduction in turnover rate by 15% within the same time frame.
Furthermore, Burjeel Holdings is committed to ethical sourcing practices, aiming for 100% compliance of suppliers with ethical labor practices through regular audits by 2026, reinforcing its commitment to responsible business practices throughout its supply chain.
John Sunil, Chief Executive Officer of Burjeel Holdings, said, “Our ESG performance is absolutely integral to our mission to provide the highest quality of healthcare for communities in the GCC: environmentally, we are aiming for carbon neutrality, the sustainable use and re-use of water; socially, our healthcare network cares for the whole social-economic spectrum, and we are delivering medical humanitarian aid, and improving disease prevention and treatment, in the MENA region.
We have an ethical business culture, strict patient data protection policies, extensive workforce safety and well-being programmes, and we are succeeding in developing a diverse and inclusive work culture.”
Source: WAM
Neeraja Rahul has been appointed to lead the Responsible Business Initiatives in UAE, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman and Qatar driving Radisson Hotel Group’s journey towards achieving Net Zero by 2050. With the group’s ‘Think People, Planet, and Community’ focus, Rahul embodies this dedication to sustainability and community engagement.
Neeraja Rahul’s new responsibility complements her current role as a Chief Engineer at Radisson RED, Dubai Silicon Oasis, reinforcing the group’s dedication to sustainable practices and female empowerment. In this role, Rahul will play a vital part within the Responsible Business Team, enhancing initiatives centered on sustainability, community engagement, and ethical business practices. Rahul brings a wealth of experience to the role as the first female Chief Engineer for Radisson Hotel Group in the Middle East. With a remarkable ascent in the hospitality sector in just a few years, Rahul’s journey from an engineering admin to her current leadership position exemplifies her dedication and expertise.
As the Group plans its course for 2024, Rahul will lead a range of initiatives for the Responsible Business Team, including but not limited to Iftar for delivery for drivers, Earth Hour, community action month, and sustainability verification efforts across all hotels. Additionally, she will actively support hotels in obtaining eco-labeling certifications and promote participation in initiatives such as the partnership with Just a Drop via towel reuse and green housekeeping program.
Those innovative strategies will help Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to becoming Net Zero by 2050. Looking ahead, the Group will pilot efforts by leveraging green building practices, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and promoting sustainable operations, thereby reducing the Group’s carbon footprint and aligning with the Paris Agreement.
Jan Hanak, Managing Director, UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, and Egypt Radisson Hotel Group, said, “Radisson Hotel Group’s long tradition of being a responsible business, with its first environmental policy defined in 1989, the responsible business coordinator role is vital. Neraaja’s background in engineering brings invaluable technical expertise and problem-solving skills to the role, enabling her to implement sustainable practices and initiatives effectively.’’
Complementing these efforts, Radisson Hotel Group extends its sustainability pledge to its guests. It offers sustainable value propositions such as 100% carbon-neutral meetings and expanding EV charging networks globally, with over 900 installations already in place. This includes supporting the people, communities, and the planet through plans focused on business ethics, supply chain sustainability, carbon footprint reduction, and employability programs to foster a better future for all.
Over the past 10 years, the Group has reduced its average energy and water footprint by 30%. As an intermediate target, it aims to reduce its carbon footprint by 30% over the next 5 years and halve it by 2030. Additionally, the Group aims to minimize the consumption of natural resources, increase the use of renewable energy, and phasing out single-use plastics.
MEDIA CONTACT: Caroline Jonsson, Regional PR & Communications Manager, Middle East, Radisson Hotel Group
caroline.jonsson@radissonhotels.com
Dubai Can, the citywide sustainability initiative, has successfully seen a reduction in the usage of an equivalent of almost 18 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles in just two years since its launch. With the support of its partners and sponsors, Dubai Can has placed 50 public water stations in strategic locations across the city, including parks and popular tourist destinations, which have dispensed almost 9 million litres of water.
Dubai Can was launched on 15 February 2022 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, to reduce the utilisation of single-use plastic water bottles, empower residents and visitors to be active players in building a more sustainable future, and contribute to saving wildlife and the marine environment.
The initiative is aligned with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to transform the emirate into a leading sustainable destination and is part of the wider efforts to cut the use of single-use plastics and encourage a mindset change in how the city’s residents and visitors view sustainability. Dubai Can’s objectives are also supporting the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan and Dubai’s commitment to helping the UAE achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals and UAE NetZero 2050 targets.
With the UAE’s ‘Year of Sustainability’ extending into 2024, the Dubai Can initiative has plans to expand with 30 additional water fountains being installed by the end of the year in locations around the city. This will further motivate residents and visitors to undertake simple lifestyle changes such as using refillable water bottles and installing water filters in their homes, offices and schools.
Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: “The Dubai Can movement has been embraced by residents and visitors alike and we are proud of the considerable success it has achieved since its launch two years ago, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make Dubai a leading sustainable destination. We have seen consistent engagement with Dubai Can across the city, and the positive impact the initiative has made over the past two years. By reducing plastic waste, we are protecting our oceans, wildlife, and natural landscapes, and by choosing reusable options like our public water stations, we are promoting a healthier lifestyle and reducing our carbon footprint. We will ensure that Dubai Can will continue to encourage residents and visitors to adopt greener practices and lifestyle choices, in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to consolidate Dubai’s position among the top three global cities for business and leisure over the next decade.
“As we strive to achieve Dubai’s sustainability goals, we look forward to the continued success of Dubai Can, particularly in the UAE’s ‘Year of Sustainability’, which has been extended into 2024 and invites everyone to join in the collective effort to adopt sustainable practices. Dubai Can has driven the behavioral changes that are needed to tackle environmental challenges and the success of this initiative could not have been possible without the support of our valued city stakeholders and partners, as well as the overwhelming response from the public.”
Strong stakeholder support
With the unified aim of achieving sustainable development goals and environmental targets, Dubai Can has partnered with strategic businesses to support the refilling of the city’s 50 plus public water fountains.
Simonida Subotic, Vice President at talabat UAE, said: “We are proud to celebrate Dubai Can’s two-year milestone and the remarkable impact it has on the community. As a tech company, we embrace innovative solutions that create shared value for the public and facilitate the adoption of positive everyday practices. Being in a country such as the UAE, which is spearheading sustainability efforts in the region, enables private companies to play an active role in driving behavioural change. In line with the leadership’s vision and the extension of the Year of Sustainability in 2024, we will be adding two new talabat Dubai Can machines in the city, further contributing to the initiative’s success.”
Walid Yehia, Managing Director – UAE at Dell Technologies, said: “The Dubai Can initiative has made substantial progress in a short span of time, and its mission to reduce the consumption of single-use plastic water bottles is truly commendable. The initiative aligns with Dell’s global efforts to foster sustainable and environmentally friendly business practices. By harnessing the latest technological advancements, we can encourage responsible actions and contribute to a future where plastic waste is minimised. We remain committed to the Dubai Can initiative and look forward to expanding our collective impact in reducing plastic waste and contributing to a more sustainable and resilient Dubai.”
Vijay Bains, Chief Sustainability Officer and Group Head of ESG at Emirates NBD, said: “As an organisation that has consistently championed sustainability and advocated environmental preservation, we at Emirates NBD are delighted to celebrate the outstanding success of the Dubai Can initiative, launched two years ago, and reaffirm our commitment to its continued progress and success. As one of the early supporters of the initiative, we have installed public water stations across three locations, including The Greens and Views, South Ridge in Downtown and Dubai Sports City. We take immense pride in sharing that our endeavours have helped to save the use of more than one million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles across these areas. It is truly gratifying to witness the overwhelming response from residents and visitors embracing this citywide initiative, taking us one step closer to achieving Dubai’s goal of becoming a sustainable city.”
Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Portfolio Management Officer of Shamal Holding, said: “In line with the city’s wider ambitions and the Dubai Economic Agenda’s goal to adopt greener practices and lifestyle choices, we are grateful to Dubai Can for having transformed sustainability narratives, building impact beyond the city and becoming an example for successful practices globally. We are proud to have been closely associated as a partner in this journey. Dubai Can’s purpose, message and mission continues to inspire generations to contribute to make a difference through this sustainability-focused programme. At Shamal, we remain committed to nurturing partnerships and relationships that generate meaningful and sustainable returns and we look forward to continuing to support this citywide sustainability movement across our diverse portfolio including Dubai Harbour and Kite Beach.”
Ahlam Bolooki, CEO of Emirates Literature Foundation, said: “At the Emirates Literature Foundation, sustainability is not something we consider just for the Year of Sustainability. From our offices to our events, we have been prioritising eco-conscious practices for years by providing water coolers and encouraging our community to bring reusable bottles. In alignment with the Dubai Can initiative and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s D33 agenda to reinforce Dubai’s position amongst the top three global cities, we’re committed to reducing waste and conserving resources. Partnerships play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for our planet. Together, we can inspire meaningful change and ensure a greener, healthier world for generations to come.”
Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer for the MEA and SEAP of Radisson Hotel Group, said: “Over the past years, we at Radisson Hotel Group have implemented several practices and launched initiatives as part of our commitment to drive a pro-environmental strategy. The irreversible ramifications of plastic on our environment are a major challenge to us today, and the Dubai Can initiative aims to defy this obstacle. We are proud to be part of this ingenious step towards a greener UAE.”
Many private companies in the emirate have been inspired by Dubai Can to install water fountains in their offices, reducing single-use plastics in the workplace. Above all, the movement has encouraged residents and visitors to the UAE to adopt more sustainable behaviours and become conscientious consumers.
Driving a ‘refill culture’
All water stations throughout the city adhere to the highest hygiene standards and comply strictly with municipal, healthcare, and federal regulations. The stations provide clean and safe drinking water, which is tested in accordance with DEWA, GCC, and World Health Organization standards. While driving a ‘refill culture’, the drinking water from the stations are kept cool at a temperature of 10°C offering people a refreshing, clean and safe alternative.
A resident in the UAE typically uses 450 plastic water bottles on an average in a year, which translates into a total of 4 billion plastic bottles being used annually across the country. The Dubai Can initiative will continue to encourage residents and visitors to help reduce waste and prevent millions of plastic bottles from ending up in landfill and in our oceans.
A second Dubai Can project, the Dubai Reef, was also launched in December 2023. One of the world’s largest marine reef developments, Dubai Reef is part of the city’s efforts to increase fish stocks, support sustainable fishing, and contribute to boosting food security. It will also play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and increasing marine biodiversity.
For more information about the Dubai Can sustainability initiative, and where to find refill stations across the city, please visit www.visitdubai.com/en/dubai-can.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), has revealed that DEWA made a significant achievement in improving electricity and water production efficiency, with a 41.73 percent increase in 2023 compared to 2006.
This equates to a cumulative reduction of 92.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions between 2006 and 2023, equivalent to planting 484 million trees required to absorb this CO2 emission.
“At DEWA, we are committed to achieving the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to consolidate Dubai’s position as a global hub for clean energy and a green economy. We emphasise enhancing energy and water production efficiency through innovation and continuous upgrades to our production plants, as well as deploying cutting-edge technologies across all our facilities and projects. These efforts have led to a 41.73 percent increase in electricity and water production efficiency in 2023 compared to 2006, resulting in significant reductions in carbon emissions and substantial financial savings,” said Al Tayer.
Nasser Lootah, Executive Vice President of Generation (Power & Water) at DEWA, explained that DEWA produces electricity and water using co-generation technology. Heat Recovery Steam Generators (HRSG) harness waste heat from gas turbines to generate additional electricity and provide thermal energy for the water desalination process.
DEWA employs an innovative hybrid system for water desalination plants, integrating various technologies such as Multi-Stage Flashing (MSF) and Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO), ensuring optimal efficiency throughout the plant’s lifecycle and minimising costs.
DEWA regularly develops operation and maintenance modes to enhance efficiency further. It also collaborates with original equipment manufacturers to undertake gas turbine upgrades, improving their efficiency, performance, and reliability.
Source: WAM
The UAE Council for Climate Action has sought ways to develop sustainable and cutting-edge financial frameworks for green projects by creating a platform for the commercialisation of carbon as a tradeable asset on local markets.
The project will offer optional participation and mandatory application in case of participation, to guarantee alignment with the stipulations outlined in the Paris Agreement, it was agreed at the first meeting of the UAE Council for Climate Action in 2024, which was held virtually and chaired by Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment.
The Council reviewed the Carbon Pricing Study which aims to encourage companies to reduce carbon emissions by implementing a tax on carbon emissions, trading carbon credits, or a hybrid system.
Carbon Pricing Policy
The Carbon Pricing Policy Committee, comprising representatives from both federal and local governmental bodies in the country, convened in November 2023 and February 2024 to prepare a detailed study. The study includes an evaluation of the available mechanisms, as well as an assessment of the long-term social and economic impacts. The Committee also developed essential models crucial for analysing and appraising the study’s outcomes.
The Council assessed the most recent advancements in the country’s action to achieve climate sustainability. The Council also reviewed various programmes aimed at attaining climate neutrality, examined its work agenda with the concerned authorities in the nation for the current year, and formulated an action plan.
Dr Al Dahak said: “Throughout the COP28 conference, the UAE, with the collective representation of key stakeholders, introduced a comprehensive global sustainability model spanning across all sectors. This positioned our nation at the forefront of global discussions. Currently, the primary focus of the Council is now on operationalising the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy. Delving into various strategic plans requires meticulous monitoring to guarantee the achievement of this ambitious goal, especially within critical economic sectors.”
Collaboration
She added: “Through collaboration, we can bring about transformative change that aligns with our wise leadership’s aspirations. By engaging society in our efforts, we can effectively achieve all our goals. Let’s make 2024 and the following years a new opportunity to strengthen the UAE’s global position and its ability to develop a more sustainable society, economy, and environment, not only for us but also for future generations.”
The UAE Council for Climate Action meeting discussed the progress made towards implementing the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy and collaboration with various ministries and federal and local authorities.
The Strategy focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions by setting interim targets, implementing initiatives and projects, and taking necessary government actions. The Strategy also includes a proposed governance mechanism to monitor the implementation of the plan.
At the meeting, the Council was briefed on the outcomes of the education pavilion at the COP28 Conference and its significance in increasing public and student awareness of climate change, nature, and the environment. The meeting emphasised the importance of such initiatives in supporting the UAE’s efforts to achieve its social, economic and climate goals.
The discussions focused on the current advancement and forthcoming strategies as part of the Carbon Trading initiative.
The members discussed ways to improve collaboration at the Federal level to effectively tackle climate change and its impact. The focus was on reducing emissions sustainably and reaching climate neutrality.
Latest updates
The meeting also covered the latest updates related to the National Dialogue for Climate Ambition, which will soon hold a new roundtable to discuss the aluminium sector. The Council also had detailed discussions on the potential expansion of the UAE Climate-Responsible Companies Pledge.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment presented updates on the progress made in the second phase of the National Measurement, Reporting, and Verification System Project in line with the enhanced transparency framework of the Paris Agreement. Additionally, the meeting discussed the National Adaptation Action Programme project, which aims to increase awareness among both the government and private sector, and bridge the knowledge gap in national action programmes with the Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
The meeting was attended by Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for International Development Affairs; Maria Hanif Al-Qassim, Assistant Undersecretary for Policy and Economic Studies Sector UAE Ministry of Economy; Abdulla Sami Al Shamsi, Assistant Undersecretary for Industrial Growth at the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology; Engineer Ahmed Al Kaabi, Assistant Under-Secretary for Oil, Gas and Mineral Resources at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure; Dr Hassan Al Mheiri, Assistant Under-Secretary for Accreditation and Educational Services at the Ministry of Education; and Ambassador Majid Al Suwaidi, UAE Ambassador and Director-General and Special Representative of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, and Executive Vice President at Adnoc.
The meeting was also attended by Ahmed Al Muhairbi, Secretary-General of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Abdulrahman Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director General of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department, Ahmed Ali Al-Ali, General manager of the Department of Umm Al Quwain Municipality, Dr Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of Environment Protection & Development Authority of Ras Al Khaimah, Asilah Abdullah Al Mualla, Director-General of the Fujairah Environment Authority, Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director General of Aviation Safety Sector at the General Civil Aviation Authority, and Shaikha Al Mazroui, Acting Executive Director, Integrated Environmental Policy and Planning Sector at EAD, in addition to a number of federal, state and private sector officials.
Source: TradeArabia
Realising UAE Net Zero 2050 could help the country grow its GDP by approximately $1 trillion, says Green Future Project (GFP), a B-Corp providing corporate sustainability solutions.
Briano Martinoni, Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer at GFP, details why UAE stakeholders play in achieving this realisation.
By 2080, collaboration between federal and local governments, the private sector, and communities could yield an extra AED70 billion ($19.1 billion), with investments offset by long-term cost savings, notably from reduced fossil fuel use.
Green efforts
Policies like the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan and corporate green initiatives are pivotal for building a resilient future. A recent survey showing that 91% of businesses globally struggle to measure their greenhouse gas emissions reinforces this notion. Despite only seven UAE businesses being certified B-Corps out of 6,700 worldwide, as environmental awareness grows, UAE organisations must intensify their green efforts for the country’s sustainable goals.
Briano explained: “The data speaks for itself, showing that companies can experience a 15-30% brand value increase by simply adopting sustainable practices. Younger generations are driving environmental change on a global scale but they can only do so much – the onus falls on governmental entities and businesses to ensure a greener world is created for future inhabitants of our planet.
“This notion is reinforced by the fact that Scope 3 emissions (indirect emissions that occur in the value chain of any reporting entity) account for 40-80% of a company’s total carbon footprint, and sometimes even exceed 90%. Companies are increasingly adopting carbon footprint monitoring tools and this is a welcome sign since it will enable informed decision-making and accelerate positive change.”
GFP is helping advance the UAE’s green objectives while contributing to key governmental mandates such as UAE Net Zero 2050. The company is working with UAE-based organisations in sectors including digital banking, hospitality, real estate, communications, and finance to help them pioneer sustainable action across the region.
Source: TradeArabia
Today, the Advertising Business Group (ABG), a leading self-regulatory non-profit organisation, has announced a strategic alliance with Ad Net Zero, a global initiative committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the advertising sector, signifying the launch of a pioneering initiative aimed at decarbonising the UAE’s advertising sector and encouraging sustainable behaviour change through advertising.
The announcement, which was made at Dubai Lynx, MENA’s premier festival of creativity, underscores a collective commitment to bolstering the markets’ role as the regional epicenter for driving sustainability within advertising and marketing initiatives across vital industries. By partnering with Ad Net Zero, the ABG aims to help the advertising industry contribute to the UAE’s net-zero goals and promote responsible consumption and production. The launch of the chapter will serve as the regional hub for MENA and is a decisive move towards shaping a more sustainable future for the advertising industry in the region.
Ad Net Zero is set to launch in the UAE with its founding supporters Google, META, Unilever, Group M, MCN, Dentsu, Publicis Groupe and Omnicom Media Group, all taking the lead in sustainable leadership and adding to the wider list of ANZ global supporters*. This commitment underscores the industry’s dedication to pioneering responsible advertising standards and shaping a sustainable future.
Commenting on the milestone Khaled AlShehhi, Executive Director of Marketing and Communication, UAE Government Media Office, stated: “With 2023 and 2024 declared as the Years of Sustainability by the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the successful culmination of COP28 in Dubai, the message is clear: Sustainability is not optional. The UAE proudly launches Ad Net Zero, marking a pivotal moment in our journey towards sustainability. This initiative, a project close to my professional journey in the UAE, is not just a response to a global climate emergency; it is a bold statement of our commitment in the advertising industry. Ad Net Zero empowers us to leverage our industry’s unique influence to drive meaningful change. With this launch of Ad Net Zero, it’s imperative to remember that everyone has a crucial part to play. This isn’t just an initiative for the advertising industry; it’s a universal call to action. Every individual, business, and sector can make impactful contributions toward our sustainable future. Let’s unite in this vital effort.”
Sebastian Munden, Chair of Ad Net Zero, said: “We are pleased to see the reach of Ad Net Zero grow with the launch of the UAE Chapter, which will act as the regional hub for MENA. It takes motivated people across the sectors to get momentum for launch. The ABG’s public commitment for a more sustainable future in advertising is a vital step and connects them to the global community and the Ad Net Zero tools to help facilitate this outcome.
“Motivating citizen behaviour change at scale was a topic that came up in many discussions I was part of at COP 28 in Dubai. A more sustainable and globally connected approach, from how ads are made to what they promote, can only be a good thing. There’s no time to lose.”
The ABG recently unveiled its comprehensive sustainability agenda that aims to empower the industry to take direct action and reduce its negative impact from both advertising emissions and content. The agenda focuses on building a more sustainable sector through emissions reduction, closing the industry wide sustainability knowledge and skills gap, and empowering the industry to combat greenwashing practices.
Leyal Eskin, Vice President, Head of Personal Care Business GCC Countries at Unilever and Chair of Advertising Business Group commented: “The Advertising Business Group’s (ABG) alliance with Ad Net Zero marks a pivotal moment in driving environmental sustainability for the UAE advertising industry and supports the UAE’s Net Zero commitment. This collaboration is a testament to the ABGs overall commitment in driving responsible advertising business practices and will help shape a sustainable future for the UAE’s advertising and marketing industry.”
The advertising sector needs to take responsibility for a sustainable future, through both reducing its operational emissions and through creating work that leads to a more sustainable future.
Ad Net Zero supporters, global, and at a national level, are required to set public science-based net zero targets. This can be done through either the Science Based Targets initiative, a commitment to the UN Race to Zero (including via the SME Climate Hub), The Climate Pledge, or other comparable alternatives. Supporters need to measure and report their progress annually. If supporters do not already have net zero targets in place, they are required to establish them within 15 months of joining Ad Net Zero. Ad Net Zero and ABG are committed to guiding supporters during the initial phase. For the first three months, both teams will offer comprehensive assistance, including information, training, and upskilling, to facilitate a smooth start to the measurement journey.
ABG invites companies within the advertising and marketing industry to become Ad Net Zero supporters. By committing to ANZ, companies can play a leading role in setting responsible advertising standards, positively shaping the future of the industry. The initiative offers a clear five-point action plan and guidance for organisations to achieve net-zero GHG emissions within the advertising sector. Following the initial learning period, supporters will have 12 months to measure their emissions accurately and set their public science-based net zero target. Guidance and support will be provided to assist supporters in this crucial endeavor.
Aramex, a leading global provider of comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions, has launched a new podcast series aligned with the recently concluded COP28 in Dubai and the Year of Sustainability in the UAE, now extended from 2023 to 2024.
Dubbed A Podcast: The Road to Sustainability and hosted by Dr. Abubaker Musa Eltom, a dedicated SDG advocate and speaker, the podcast series is strategically designed to enrich Arabic content on sustainability-related topics, with a primary focus on the UAE. The main aim of the initiative is to bridge knowledge gaps, share valuable insights and engage listeners in vital conversations through thought-provoking discussions, insightful comments, and interactive dialogues about sustainability within the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, while also supporting the broader objectives of the UAE’s efforts to foster a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
The podcast featured discussions with prominent figures in sustainability, addressing some of the most crucial topics in the field. The first episode featured Dr. Ashraf Gamal El Din, Chief Executive Officer of Hawkamah, the Institute for Corporate Governance, the DIFC. It focused on the critical role of governance, a cornerstone in the ESG framework, while exploring key themes, including the balance between compliance and reporting, the significance of transparency, and the role of regulators in shaping sustainable business practices.
Other episodes featured Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Ali Al Nuaimi, a member of the Ajman Royal family in the United Arab Emirates, popularly known as The Green Sheikh; Mrs. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, Chairperson of Emirates Environmental Group; and Dr. Yousef M. Al-Assaf, President at Rochester Institute of Technology-Dubai. These episodes covered a wide range of topics centered on education and development through sustainability, the gap between the private sector and third-sector social and community development, as well as green buildings and green future.
Commenting on the launch, Raji Hattar, Chief Sustainability Officer at Aramex, said: “We are thrilled to launch our new podcast series for Arabic-speaking audiences, with the overarching aim of filling the knowledge gap. With COP28 and the Year of Sustainability last year, which has been extended to 2024, intensifying the focus on sustainability within the region and beyond, we, as a responsible company, want to play our part and further support local and global efforts to create more awareness about critical topics within the broad spectrum of sustainability. Being the first company in the region to release an audited sustainability report about 17 years ago, our legacy has taught us to remain committed to improving the ecosystem we live in, ensuring our business is as sustainable as possible while also promoting the importance of a sustainable world through initiatives such as the launch of this new podcast series.”
Marking the beginning of an engaging journey into sustainability matters while stimulating important discussions, the podcast launch is an integral component of Aramex’s ‘Delivering Good’ initiative, which centers on Education and Youth Empowerment, Entrepreneurship, and the Environment. It aligns with Aramex’s longstanding efforts, through its wide range of programs and projects, aimed at delivering a better future to the communities in the markets where it works.
The video podcast is available on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@AramexTV/videos.
