AD Ports Group, a leading facilitator of global trade, logistics, and industry, CMA CGM Group, a global player in maritime, land, air and logistics solutions, and Ecocean, an innovative company serving aquatic biodiversity, have signed a scientific cooperation framework agreement that will see the installation of 48 Biohuts in Khalifa Port.
Designed to restore biodiversity and promote marine life in coastal and harbour areas, the Biohut module is a submerged structure that provides a safe and supportive habitat for marine life to thrive. The modules are specially designed to provide a refuge and breeding ground for a variety of marine species, including fish, crustaceans, and other marine life essential to the health of coastal ecosystems, particularly in environments where it has been disturbed or damaged by human activity.
Biohut modules come in the form of modular cages, made from eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, offering a solid, protective structure for marine wildlife while minimising its impact on the environment. These structures will be deployed in specific areas of Khalifa Port, where marine life needs support and regeneration. The Biohuts will be installed in the port in Q1 2024, at the CMA CGM’s future terminal, which is currently under construction. This pilot phase will last 5 years with the inclusion of a monitoring part.
David Gatward, Chief Engineering and Technical Services Officer, AD Ports Group, said, “We understand that the infrastructure we develop serves our economy, industry, and community. Simultaneously, maintaining biodiversity is crucial for life-sustaining processes. At AD Ports Group ETS, we design with sustainability in mind and retrofit existing structures to ensure a sustainable legacy for the local community. It's vital to adapt our infrastructure to enhance environmental conditions while consciously designing new projects with sustainability as a primary consideration.”
Félix de Carpentier, Group Vice President - Sustainability, CMA CGM, said, “Preserving biodiversity is part of CMA CGM ‘Acting for Planet’ pillar, at the heart of the Group's sustainability commitments. We have been working for years with experts to better understand the mechanisms of its preservation and support protection and restoration projects which contribute to reducing human activities' environmental footprint.”
Source: WAM (Emirates News Agency)
du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), has been honoured with the prestigious MENA Green Building Awards 2023 in the Healthy Spaces Project of the Year category. The award recognizes du's commitment to sustainability and its exceptional efforts in creating a healthy and productive workspace.
du's winning project, the new headquarters (HQ) in Dubai Hills, exemplifies the criteria set for the Healthy Spaces Projects of the Year category, which specifically acknowledges buildings or fit-outs that prioritize occupant health and well-being while demonstrating innovation and creativity. du’s HQ has been designed and executed with a strong emphasis on employee well-being, sustainability, and productivity - the fundamental pillars for this award. The workspace has been carefully crafted to promote health and well-being through features of solo and collaborative workspaces like sit-stand workstations, teams tables, focus rooms, collaboration spaces and wellness facilities, offering multiple choices to suit variety of needs of employees during the day. This not only encourages physical movement but also promotes mental wellness and cultivates social interaction among employees.
Sustainability is at the core of du's values, and the new headquarters reflects this commitment. The project adopts to LEED and WELL standards, ensuring the highest level of sustainable practices and environmental responsibility. Environmentally, du’s HQ has significantly reduced the company's carbon footprint, through energy conservation measures, waste segregation efforts, and a zero-plastic policy. The Sustainability is complemented with digital elements across the offices enhancing the work environment.
The Industrial Development Bureau (IDB), a unit of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), has partnered with the Netherlands-based XMILE Group to establish an enzyme-based fuel additives processing facility in the UAE capital.
According to ADDED, the project will facilitate the implementation of sustainable development in Abu Dhabi’s industrial sector, along with boosting collaborative programmes across public and private sectors, focused on driving adoption of sustainable low-carbon fuels throughout the supply chain.
Enzyme-based fuel additives eliminate contamination under filtration, which results in better combustion and fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
The project aims to support the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategic objectives, which focuses on improving efficiency and increasing the deployment of renewable energy sources in the country.
The UAE, which hosted the UN climate summit COP28 in December, has been pushing its green agenda through domestic and international initiatives.
Source: ZAWYA (Writing by Bindu Rai, editing by Brinda Darasha)
Shoppers in Dubai and Sharjah were left surprised after discovering some supermarkets had stopped the sale of single-use plastic bags.
“When I paid for the products I purchased at a supermarket in Sharjah City Centre, I was left with no choice but to carry the products to the car without the bag,” said Ahmed Abid, a Sudanese expat residing in Al Nahda, Sharjah.
In January 2023, the UAE declared a comprehensive prohibition on the use of single-use plastic items, including shopping bags, set to be enforced starting January 1, 2024.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council issued the resolution on Sunday announcing a ban on single-use plastic bags and products in the emirate from January 1, 2024. The ban applies to single-use disposable products and recycled ones, including both plastics and non-plastic items, regardless of their material composition.
Shoppers were taken aback as they entered supermarkets to find a lack of single-use plastic bags, a common item in shopping routines, which was charged Dh0.25 last year.
Abid had been to the supermarket to get quick essentials as he was expecting guests at home for dinner. “I had been to the supermarket to buy some juices and pastries. But the lady at the billing counter mentioned that the plastic bags has been banned with effect from January 1.”
Similarly, Muhamed Nael, a Jordanian expat had been to Carrefour to shop for his daily essentials. Without knowledge of the ban, he purchased his monthly groceries, “But I did not have any bags to carry the purchased items. The cheaper bags at the counter were no more on sale and I had to purchase a reusable bag for Dh2.50,” said Nael.
“I will be keeping these bags in my car and whenever I go shopping, I will use them,” added Nael.
Krishna Kondattam, an Indian expat, working at an MNC in Dubai was shopping at a gift center and was surprised to find that stores were no longer offering single-use plastic carrier bags. “I always carry bags while shopping. This was the first time in the last 9 months that I entered a supermarket without the reusable bags,” said Kondattam.
“I had to walk up to my car to get the bags and then take the purchased items with it. It’s really a great initiative and people will now learn to carry their own bags.”
STORES PUT UP NOTICES
Stores at petrol stations across Dubai have put up a notice that plastic bags will not be sold and stocks will be removed from the counter. “An alternative bag will be provided as per directives from the authorities,” read the notice at one of the petrol stations.
Some petrol stations had also displayed news from Khaleej Times regarding the ban on single-use plastics. Attendants at Zoom in Oud Metha said that they were giving away over 200 bags on a daily basis, and for now people are carrying the items directly to their car. “We are waiting for instructions from the management about the alternatives,” said the attendant.
Source: SM Ayaz Zakir, Khaleej Times
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has praised commercial transport entities, especially those operating trucks and heavy vehicles, for their adherence to standards to reduce carbon emissions from their exhausts. This commitment has resulted in an impressive compliance rate of around 98 percent.
Recently, the Licensing Activities Monitoring Department field teams, in coordination with the Administration Services Department at the Corporate Administrative Support Services Sector, RTA, led inspection and awareness campaigns. These campaigns were carried out in collaboration with the General Department of Traffic at the Dubai Police HQ and Emirates Transport. The main objective of these campaigns was to emphasise the importance of reducing carbon emissions from heavy vehicle exhausts.
Essa Al Amiri, Director of Licensing Activities Monitoring at the Licensing Agency of RTA, praised the compliance of companies that own heavy vehicles, including freight transport trucks, to carbon emission reduction standards.
He stated that the rate of adherence to regulations has reached around 98 percent, which reflects the high level of awareness and commitment of these companies. These results were a part of a week-long inspection campaign which involved various heavy vehicles across various key streets and roads in Dubai. These efforts align with RTA's second strategic goal (sustainability) and the third strategic goal (health, safety, and security).
Al Amiri stated that RTA conducts various campaigns to promote environmental awareness and enhance road traffic safety. These campaigns include educational and awareness-raising elements aimed at drivers to highlight the importance of adhering to technical specifications and traffic safety standards that govern the safe operation of trucks and heavy vehicles. He emphasised that these efforts align with RTA's objectives to improve transportation safety and ensure safer roads, in line with its vision of becoming the world leader in seamless and sustainable mobility.
Source: WAM
Dubai-based Dulsco Group has announced a partnership with Assured Aviation Services, a pioneer in providing dry washing services tailored for aircraft and airport ground service equipment.
This collaboration signifies a monumental stride in sustainable aviation services, introducing an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional wet washing techniques in the UAE aviation sector.
The aviation industry has long grappled with the labour-intensive and costly nature of traditional wet washing methods. Dulsco has integrated Assured’s advanced dry washing technology. This employs specialised chemicals and state-of-the-art equipment to efficiently eliminate dirt, grease, and debris from aircraft, buses, tugs, and other equipment.
Dry washing has several key advantages, including its flexibility to be performed in various locations and its suitability for comprehensive exterior aircraft wash during maintenance downtime, all without the necessity of a dirty water drainage system. This empowers airlines to maintain the appearance of their aircraft, even during on-line parking. A study conducted by a UAE-based carrier revealed that dry washing a fleet of 260 aircraft saved over 11 million litres of fresh water in a single year over wet washing. Assured Aviation has saved more than 1.5 million litres of water in less than 20 months through the adoption of the dry wash process.
Furthermore, this technique mitigates the risk of corrosion, prolongs the lifespan of ground equipment, shields paint from sun exposure and ensures enhanced safety for both equipment operators and maintenance personnel by eliminating slippery surfaces.
Antony Marke, COO of Dulsco People, said: “As we join hands with Assured Aviation, we are not only promoting sustainable aircraft and airside vehicle maintenance but also championing environmental responsibility in the aviation industry.”
Matthew Chitty, Director of Assured Aviation Services said: “This partnership is a commitment to elevating the passenger and customer experience while pioneering a sustainable and dynamic future for airport services in the heart of the UAE.”
Beyond significant cost and time savings, dry washing delivers environmental benefits. In contrast to traditional methods that often involve harmful detergents and chemicals, dry washing relies on environmentally friendly cleaning agents, reducing the overall environmental impact of the cleaning process. Crucially, it eliminates the need for water in the cleaning process, addressing concerns in regions facing water scarcity or prioritising water conservation.
Source: Khaleej Times
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, has issued Executive Council Resolution No. 124 of 2023 on single-use products, with the ultimate goal of protecting the environment, encouraging people to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle, and promoting the culture of using reusable products to advance sustainable development.
The move also aims to encourage the private sector to promote the use of recycled products, aligning with circular economy practices that foster sustainable recycling of products in local markets. The Resolution also seeks to regulate the use and recycling of single-use and plastic products.
The Resolution applies to single-use disposable products and recycled ones, including both plastics and non-plastic items, regardless of their material composition. These include plastic and non-plastic single-use products, as well as food delivery packaging materials, fruit and vegetable wrapping, thick plastic bags, plastic containers, and packaging materials either partially or entirely made of plastic, such as those used for plastic bottles, snack bags, wet wipes, balloons, and balloon sticks besides food packaging. These regulations extend to sellers and consumers within the Emirate of Dubai, covering private development zones and free zones, including the Dubai International Financial Centre.
Municipality’s mandate
According to the Resolution, Dubai Municipality, in collaboration with relevant entities, is entrusted with a number of responsibilities including organising awareness campaigns to educate and motivate community members to reduce the use of plastic materials and single-use products, encouraging sellers to actively support projects, initiatives, and programmes focused on reducing the usage of plastic materials and single-use products, while also promoting the availability of reusable alternatives to reduce environmental impact.
The Resolution imposes a ban on the import and trading of single-use products in a phased approach. The ban will apply to plastic bags starting from 1st January, 2024. Non-plastic single-use products, including single-use bags, will come under the ambit of the ban from 1st June, 2024. Starting from 1st January, 2025, single-use plastic products, including items such as plastic stirrers, table covers, cups, styrofoam food containers, plastic straws, and plastic cotton swabs, will be prohibited. Commencing on 1st January, 2026, the ban will extend to other single-use plastic products including plastic plates, plastic food containers, plastic tableware, and beverage cups and their plastic lids.
Limited exceptions
As per the Resolution, the ban does not apply to the following products: single-use plastic bags, which include thin-film rolls for packaging meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, grains, and bread, along with garbage bags. Exemptions also extend to products intended for export or re-export outside the country. These items include single-use plastic shopping bags, single-use shopping bags, and single-use disposable plastic products. The resolution prohibits the trading of these products in local markets and necessitates a clear indication of their purpose for export or re-export outside the country.
The Resolution requires all relevant authorities and entities, as well as consumers, to collaborate on developing and implementing mechanisms and practices aimed at reducing the production and consumption of single-use products, and to adopt practices and initiatives that foster increased reliance on the use of reusable products.
The Resolution also mandates sellers to actively participate in projects, initiatives, and programmes targeting the reduction of plastic materials and single-use products. Sellers must offer specified reusable alternatives at reasonable prices, as outlined by the relevant authorities.
Non-compliance and penalties
Violators of this Resolution shall face a fine of AED200. If the same violation is repeated within one year from the date of the previous offence, the penalty will be doubled, with a maximum not exceeding AED2,000 when doubled.
Violators may contest the decisions taken against them by submitting written grievances to the Director-General of the relevant government department responsible for licensing economic activities in the emirate. These entities include the Department of Economy and Tourism, as well as authorities overseeing private development zones and free zones, including the Dubai International Financial Centre. The grievances must be submitted within ten working days from the date of notification regarding the decision, action, or administrative penalty. A committee, formed for this purpose by the Director-General, will resolve the complaint within ten working days from its submission. The decision issued on the complaint is deemed final.
This Resolution annuls any other decision that may contradict its provisions. The Resolution is effective from 1st January, 2024 and will be published in the Official Gazette.
Source: WAM
An innovative agricultural project in the UAE, ‘David & Goliath’ farms, has marked a significant milestone by generating 5 million euros ($5.53 million) from carbon credit sales.
Carbon credits are permits that allow a company to emit a certain quantity of greenhouse gases, with one credit equalling the emission of one tonne of carbon dioxide or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases.
Companies are allocated a specific number of these credits. If they reduce their emissions and have surplus credits, they can sell these to other companies in what is known as carbon markets.
Vertical farms
‘David & Goliath’ farms has capitalised on the UAE's commitment to innovative and sustainable agricultural technologies.
These include vertical farms, automated irrigation systems, and technologically advanced greenhouses. The project focuses on cultivating rare and exotic fruits, combining unique agricultural methods with environmental and investment strategies aimed at sustainable agriculture. A key component of their revenue comes from monetising carbon credits.
According to the project's investor, Dr Lal Bhatia, the farm's annual carbon credit provision amounts to 15,000 metric tonnes.
These credits are traded at 50 euros per tonne, bringing in an annual revenue of 750,000 euros. Accumulated over seven years, this represents a significant financial and environmental achievement.
Supportive environment
Dr Bhatia lauds the supportive environment in the UAE for such innovative projects, aligning with the nation's goals for sustainability and agricultural advancements.
The ‘David & Goliath’ farms not only focuses on the production of exotic fruits using cutting-edge technology but also prioritise sustainable practices that yield carbon credits.
These practices not only reduce carbon emissions but also convert them into a financial asset. The project's foresight into the future of carbon trading has allowed them to venture into futures contracts, selling future carbon reserves.
The pricing strategy of setting 50 euros per tonne of carbon credit is designed to hedge against market fluctuations, with expectations of a price rise to between 70 and 90 euros by 2030 in regulated markets like the European Union.
Source: TradeArabia
AD Ports Group has completed a comprehensive environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) for the development and operation of a state-of-the-art multi-purpose terminal at Safaga Port.
AD Ports had signed a 30-year concession agreement with the Red Sea Port Authority (RSPA) for the development of the port.
The terminal is designed to handle 6 million metric tonnes of bulk cargo, 450,000 TEUs of containers, and more than 50,000 roll-on/roll-off units. AD Ports Group will focus on developing the upper infrastructure, including buildings, facilities, and superstructures. The terminal is strategically positioned as the primary gateway for regional development, enhancing trade efficiency and connectivity.
Diverse scientific methodologies
The ESIA was conducted using diverse scientific methodologies, complying with Egypt's national regulations and International Requirements, including Egypt's Law No 4 of 1994 for environmental protection, the IFC Performance Standards, and the World Bank Group’s EHS Guidelines.
Highlighted within the assessment’s findings were the significant benefits of the project, including economic growth through stimulating local economies, job creation, and boosting regional economic activity. Leveraging AD Ports Group’s experience in developing advanced port infrastructure, the terminal is well-positioned to improve accessibility and connectivity, while adopting environment-friendly practices that will reduce pollution and conserve natural resources.
The ESIA further highlights the impacts on community development, noting the anticipated improvement in community infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social services.
Mitigation measures
Comprehensive plans have been established, which include mitigation measures to address potential negative impacts during construction and operational phases, including dust emissions, noise levels, waste management, and occupational health and safety. This environmental management plan further outlines procedures for environmental management, self-monitoring, and social management, ensuring sustainable and responsible practices.
In parallel with the ESIA, the design of the multi-purpose terminal is aiming for net-zero certifications for two of its buildings, while incorporating various sustainable design features in the buildings and infrastructure. These features include carefully selected low-carbon materials, as well as energy and water efficient systems.
Saif Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer, Ports Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “As a Group, we are committed to sustainable and responsible port development, particularly in the communities in which we operate, so that we can actively contribute, positively, to the local economy and environment. However, we understand that our commitment extends beyond infrastructure and, together with the Red Sea Port Authority, we hope to create meaningful change that drives sustainable economic growth.
Source: TradeArabia
Reducing carbon footprint for any organisation, means less pressure on the use of fossil fuels. Decarbonisation refers to all methods through which any entity, business, government, or organisation reduce their carbon footprint, mainly greenhouse gasses like CO2 and CH4.
One of the country’s leading logistics and courier service companies, Zajel is looking into different methods in which the company can contribute to the plight against climate change and environmental degradation via various means.
Part of its methods will be in raising awareness amongst employees in simple ways in which carbon footprint can be reduced, whilst the company studies further for ways to shift to alternative energy methods, in lines with the UAEs Net Zero 2050 plan. One of the way’s the company has decided to do this is through educational workshops and raising awareness amongst its employees.
“There are small changes everyone can do that would make a difference. Even if the steps are small, eventually we will all reach the goal of reducing our carbon footprint, which will benefit the bigger goal of net zero 2050” Nabeel Al Kharabsheh, Zajels General Manager. Moreover, Zajel operates and is, ISO14001 – 2015 Environmental Management System Certified.
The company is dedicated to embracing environmentally friendly practices and has taken measures in implementing the strategy through the utilization of recyclable materials for all operations. In addition, to avoiding the purchase of non-recyclable materials, the company has also partnered with other companies committed to environmental preservation. Moreover, office staff are advised to unplug devices and turn off lights when not in use. As part of this sustainability initiative, Zajel is actively collaborating with vendors who possess environmental certifications or utilize recycled materials, aligning with the company's CSR vision and working towards ensuring that all vendors are certified or use recyclable materials.
