Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD), one of the UAE's leading national banks, is proud to announce its commitment to a sustainable future by signing the UAE Climate-Responsible Companies Pledge in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). This pledge is a pivotal initiative launched under the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative, aimed at enhancing and increasing private sector engagement in the country's drive towards decarbonization.
The signing ceremony took place at the 13th National Dialogue for Climate Ambition (NDCA) event in Dubai, hosted by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, in collaboration with Dubai Chambers. The initiative coincides with the UAE's Year of Sustainability as the UAE prepares to host the Conference of the Parties (COP28) meetings this year.
The pledge commitments include organisations stepping up their collective efforts to combat climate change by measuring and reporting their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions transparently, developing ambitious science-based plans to reduce their carbon footprint, and sharing these plans with the UAE government to contribute to achieving the national net-zero target by 2050.
Moreover, signatories pledge to factor in climate change mitigation and adaptation as core values and principles of their businesses and operational models.
Othman Bin Hendi, Chief Sustainability and Customer Officer at Commercial Bank of Dubai, stated, "Our commitment to signing the UAE Climate-Responsible Companies Pledge reflects our dedication to a sustainable future. This pledge is a vital part of the UAE's drive towards decarbonization, guided by the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. CBD has been proactive in taking measures to combat climate change, and we have recently unveiled our roadmap to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2030.
Bin Hendi added, "We are dedicated to measuring and transparently reporting our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and we will share this data with the UAE government to contribute to achieving the national net-zero target by 2050."
CBD is committed to supporting impactful and purpose-driven global environmental challenges. In 2022, the bank introduced its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. In 2023, CBD launched its inaugural USD 500 Million green bond as part of their continued commitment to sustainability.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of sustainable style at the Sustainable Fashion Expo, a groundbreaking pre-COP28 and pre-Diwali event that is set to transform the way we view and embrace fashion. This unique event is scheduled to take place on the 4th of November at the University of Wollongong Innovation Center, Expo City (former Australian Pavilion).
Event Details:
- Date: 4th November
- Time: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Venue: University of Wollongong Innovation Center - Expo City Dubai
Parking pin: https://goo.gl/maps/GdUFNGuM1Yu41x4M6
Discover the Best Slow & Sustainable Brands:
Sustainable Fashion Expo brings together an exquisite selection of brands that are committed to doing what is right. From fashion to accessories, home decor, and slow living, this event is your opportunity to support craftsmanship and creativity.
**Highlights of the Agenda:**
Catwalk: Join Scarfy, Goshopia, and more as eco-chic fashion graces the runway, showcasing the latest trends that are both stylish and kind to our planet.
Workshops & Clothes Swap: Learn about sustainability, the impact of fashion, and how together we can make it better through engaging workshops. Explore the art of upcycling, discover ways to reduce waste, and make informed choices about ethical fashion.
Panels & Talks: Meet experts, designers, manufacturers, buyers, media, and influencers under one roof. Gain insights into the world of sustainable living and responsible consumer choices.
Competitions:
1. **Battle of the DJs**: High school and university students with a knack for DJ-ing can compete for the title of the best DJ in the Battle of the DJs. Experience electrifying performances, as they engage in a live DJ battle during the event.
2. **Graphic Tee Competition**: Students with a passion for design & sustainable fashion can design graphics that share powerful messages about sustainability. The winning designs will be showcased on our website and social media platforms.
COP28 Discussions: Join the community in discussing expectations from COP28 and how we can make a positive impact on the environment through sustainable fashion.
Diwali: Find unique Diwali gifts that not only make your loved ones happy but also support a great cause.
Admission is FREE, and it's a family event you can't afford to miss. Fashion is more than just clothing; it's a reflection of our values. The Sustainable Fashion Expo celebrates fashion that cares—for the environment, for the workers, and for you. It's an opportunity to wear your values with pride.
Hosted by the University of Wollongong in Dubai and supported by Fashion Revolution, F&F, Goshopia, and Sonya Vajifdar, this event aims to inspire and educate. Workshops provide practical insights into sustainable living, fashion, and consumer choices.
Join us for this groundbreaking pre-COP28 and pre-Diwali event on 4th November at Expo City Dubai. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and be part of making sustainable fashion the new normal.
Stay tuned for more updates and exciting sneak peeks as we count down to the Sustainable Fashion Expo. Together, let's make fashion a force for good!
More information www.sustainablefashiondxb.com
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ana Olmeda and Araceli Gallego
Co-Founders
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Email: hello@sustainablesouk.com
Food security is a key issue that is given great attention in the United Arab Emirates. The country has developed strategic plans and practical programmes to ensure its food security, and has mobilised the community to support these plans in order to achieve food self-sufficiency and promote the concept of sustainable food.
Agriculture is one of the most important ways to ensure that the UAE has enough food to feed its people. The UAE has been supporting agriculture for 50 years, since the country was founded. This was started by the late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Sheikh Zayed believed that agriculture was very important, and he made it a top priority.
This report by the Emirates News Agency (WAM) sheds light on home gardening in the UAE, as well as the government initiatives that are helping to promote it.
The efforts of the relevant authorities, both locally and federally, have not been limited to supporting agriculture through its extensive projects across the country. They have also included encouraging community initiatives such as home gardening, which are considered to be sustainable initiatives that accelerate the achievement of food self-sufficiency.
The cultivation of a home garden or the conversion of available spaces in buildings into small production units can help to promote the concept of sustainability, both economically, socially, and environmentally. It can also support the broader sustainability ecosystem in the community.
These community initiatives aimed at promoting home gardening meet the objectives of the "Impact" pillar of the "National Sustainability Campaign" that was recently launched in conjunction with preparations for the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), which will be held from November 30 to December 12 this year in Dubai Expo.
The campaign aims to promote positive environmental behaviour and raise awareness of environmental sustainability issues, and to encourage community participation. The "Impact" pillar showcases the positive results and impact of UAE sustainability initiatives across different areas.
Supportive laws
The UAE has established a supportive legal and regulatory framework for agriculture and created government agencies to promote sustainable agriculture and food security. These efforts were strengthened by the launch of the National Food Security Strategy 2051 and the establishment of the Emirates Council for Food Security, which aims to rapidly achieve food self-sufficiency, reduce the food gap, preserve soil, and optimize water use, especially groundwater.
The decision issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, in July 2018, on community agriculture, provides a regulatory framework for community and home gardening. It calls for the exploitation of residential areas, building roofs, and educational institutions to develop and expand agricultural activity and benefit from its effects to serve the community and educate it, while enhancing environmental benefits and increasing green spaces.
The decision focused on the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment's role in promoting agriculture, including community farming, planting in educational institutions, homes, residential complexes, and government buildings, water conservation, seed provision, marketing, and regulation.
Smart Solutions
The UAE has embraced pioneering home gardening initiatives, incorporating advanced smart solutions to support community agricultural projects. A notable example is the "Bustani" exhibition hosted at the Sustainable Villa in Masdar City, which showcases over 15 innovative solutions focusing on food production, water management, and waste recycling. These solutions include chemical-free, precision-irrigated home vegetable cultivation and smart technology integration in poultry farming.
Furthermore, the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park, in collaboration with global research institutions, is developing innovative methods for agricultural production and solar-powered water desalination as part of a holistic sustainability system.
International Praise
The United Arab Emirates' efforts to promote community agriculture have been praised internationally by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) during the participation of a delegation from the organisation in the second round of the "Grow Your Food" campaign organised by the Dubai Municipality, with the aim of encouraging families and schools in the UAE to grow vegetables and fruits at home that are compatible with the climate of the environment in the state.
FAO said that such innovative and stimulating initiatives encourage people to contribute to food provision through innovative ways and within the framework of environmental conservation and in accordance with the principles of sustainability.
Organic products
The General Women's Union launched the “My Self-Sufficient Farming” initiative, with the support and patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation”, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), aimed to help increase green spaces at people’s homes, and instils agricultural values among women and their families, therefore, supporting the implementation of food security strategies by building women's capacities and equipping them with innovative agricultural skills.
The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority issued a guide to community gardening, which includes comprehensive instructions for growing fruit trees and vegetables in home gardens, educational institutions, and on building roofs. It covers everything from choosing the right location to harvesting and pest control.
Post-harvest
The Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority also distributed a variety of approved and successful fruit varieties from the production of the Authority's agricultural research stations to a number of participants in the home garden competition in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi City Municipality, with the aim of encouraging the adoption of these varieties and promoting the concept of productive home gardens, as part of the Authority's strategy aimed at achieving food security and preserving the sustainability of agriculture.
Source: WAM ( Muhammad Aamir & Amjad Saleh )
Khansaheb Civil Engineering has said it has become the first contractor in the Middle East to use a battery energy storage system (BESS) to power large construction equipment. Describing the rollout as a sustainability milestone, the firm notes that the move to deploy lithium-ion battery solutions will ‘vastly reduce carbon emissions’.
The firm said that it partnered with AJI Rentals to use Ampd Energy’s ‘Enertainer’ to power two tower cranes on its flagship project, Serenia Living on the Palm Jumeirah. The Enertainer is said to be a plug-and-play solution, which electrifies construction power generation, and offers a seamless, quiet, and fully automated energy supply, facilitating the construction industry’s shift away from fossil fuels.
By reducing the use of traditional diesel generators, Khansaheb is reducing the comparative carbon footprint by up to 85%, utilising a system that operates at a noise level 30 times quieter, emits minimal diesel fumes, and reduces risks related to diesel handling. The firm noted that the two deployed Enertainer solutions will reduce carbon emissions by a predicted 128t over a 12-month period.
“At Khansaheb we have been implementing our ‘SustainAbility’ agenda since 2013 and this has enabled us to drive down fuel consumption, energy consumption, water consumption and reduce waste across our business, year on year. This has in turn reduced our costs and these benefits have been passed on to our customers, delivering a more sustainable construction process in line with the national Sustainability Agenda,” explained Steve Flint, Managing Director of Khansaheb Civil Engineering.
In addition to reduced requirements for maintenance and refuelling, the BESS is billed as an economically intelligent option for operations. As an IoT-enabled device, it offers the added benefit of remote monitoring, providing a comprehensive level of data transparency, invaluable for data-driven decision-making.
Flint added, “We promote innovative solutions that aid us in our sustainability journey. Our commitment to integrating zero emission technology, such as Ampd Energy’s Enertainer into our construction operations will further reduce a significant amount of emissions and minimise our carbon footprint, while helping us provide a more sustainable solution to meeting our customers’ needs. We hope to adopt this technology on all future projects.”
Hannes Van Graan, Regional Operation Manager at AJI Rentals commented, “We have made a concerted effort to introduce equipment and solutions into our rental fleet, which is enabling the move to a more sustainable construction industry, a reality. Khansaheb has embraced and implemented Ampd Energy’s Enertainer with absolutely no hesitation, and we are excited to support them in their current and future projects.”
Earlier this year, Khansaheb announced that it was appointed the main contractor by Palma Development for its luxury beachfront project, Serenia Living. The project is due to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2025, the statement noted.
“Partners like Khansaheb and AJI Rentals inspire us with their proactive commitment to innovation and sustainability. We’re so glad to see the first Enertainer in the GCC deployed on a Khansaheb site through AJI Rentals. We are proud of the emissions reductions being achieved at the Serenia Living site and how it is supporting Khansaheb’s environmental agenda. We look forward to extending the benefits of this technology to future assignments,” concluded Rafat Award, Country Manager GCC at Ampd Energy.
Source: Jason Saundalkar, Middle East Construction News
The committee for selecting the winning smart green projects will announce 18 small and medium enterprises by 15 October, according to Hisham Badr, Assistant Minister of Planning for Strategic Partnerships. The committee met earlier this week to evaluate the projects that were submitted from various governorates.
The committee consists of experts and professors from Egyptian universities, representatives from the Ministries of Planning and Economic Development, and the Environment, and a high-level delegation from the United Nations. The committee is chaired by Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for Egypt.
Badr said that the winning projects will be showcased at the COP28, which will be held this year in the United Arab Emirates, to attract development support for the 18 projects out of 5,800 green projects that were submitted from all Egyptian governorates under the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects.
The Egyptian government has recently launched the second edition of the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects, which reflects Egypt’s vision to integrate development and digital transformation and to use information technology optimally.
He also revealed that he is close to signing several partnerships and agreements with the private sector and international development institutions to adopt small and medium green enterprises within the Green Smart Projects Initiative. The initiative plays an important role in facilitating communication between the private sector, international institutions, and the government.
The General Coordinator of the Smart Green Projects Initiative explained that the current stage involves reaping the benefits of the national initiative in cooperation with the governorates, starting with raising awareness of climate change through seminars, training programmes, and workshops that aimed to explain how to present smart green projects that provide solutions to climate change challenges.
He emphasized that the project evaluation stage will be completed by executive committees in each governorate that include representatives of the governorate and the ministries of Planning and Economic Development, Communications and Information Technology, Environment, Higher Education, and the National Council for Women. These committees will select the best projects based on several criteria to ensure transparency and good governance.
He stated that he held several meetings with successful businessmen in their fields to establish close partnerships that help the private sector expand in the Egyptian market in various activities, including research, green activities, recycling, and sustainable tourism. He stressed that the partnership with the United Nations contributes to providing scientific studies and research to serve the initiative, achieving complete integration between all parties.
He stressed that the initiative reflects the Egyptian state’s interest in the issue of climate change. It is part of the trend to empower the private sector, youth, and women, and in line with the state’s efforts to achieve the goals of sustainable development and digital transformation, as well as the national climate change strategy 2050. Badr explained that the goal of the initiative is to create a motivational movement within all governorates, to emphasize the importance of green and smart projects in various aspects of life.
Source: Zawya/Daily News Egypt
Arla Foods, recognized as one of Denmark's largest food producers and a global leader in the industry, aims to bring its transformative initiatives to the forefront of the international stage at COP28 in Dubai.
Emphasizing their main highlights on the COP28, Mr. Kim Villadsen, Senior Vice President and Head of MENA, said, "At Arla, we continuously try to accelerate our sustainability actions and engagements, and for that, we were present at COP27 blue zone and will also be present in COP28 blue zone within the Danish Pavilion. Our main focus areas at COP 28 will revolve around scope three emission reductions in collaboration with key customers, methane emissions, and how the industry is coming together on this, and finally, regenerative farming practices.”
Also, he shed light on Arla's commendable sustainability initiatives and its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
“We are working across our entire operation to reduce our carbon footprint, and we have ambitious targets in place that are approved by The Science Based Targets Initiative and in line with the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. In our scope 1 and 2, we plan to reduce emissions by 63 % by 2030 (compared to the 2015 baseline). For example, by using renewable energy at sites and offices and switching to fossil-free alternatives in our logistics. In scope 3, which includes on-farm emissions, the target is a 30 % reduction in emissions per kilo of milk by 2030 (also compared to the 2015 baseline). Most recently, we have implemented a point-based model by rewarding farmers who engage the most in sustainable actions on farms and motivating them not just to continue but to accelerate their efforts in creating a better future for the dairy industry. Arla Foods aims to be carbon net zero by 2050.” Mr. Villadsen stated.
In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Arla Foods manufactures 70% of its products within GCC markets, reflecting a strong commitment to localized production. Mr. Villadsen explained, "With the presence of our two Dairy manufacturing sites in Bahrain and Saudi, we are proud to have 70 % of the products we sell in MENA being produced within the GCC markets. MENA as a region stands for approximately 7 % of total Arla group revenue in 2022.”
He added, "In 2022, Arla’s total group revenue was 13.8 billion euros. The Danish market accounted for approximately 8.8 % of that.” As a global leader, Arla Foods is not only contributing to Denmark's economy but also spearheading sustainability efforts that resonate on a global scale.
As for future expansion, Mr. Kim Villadsen said, “We are continuously monitoring the possibilities and have big growth ambitions for the MENA region. It started with the establishment of our two dairy sites in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, where we are always looking into production line expansion, followed by our recent acquisition of the Kraft cheese portfolio in MENA, which is another good example.”
Arla Foods' relentless efforts towards sustainability are driven by a dedication to creating a better future for all. The company's goal to be carbon net zero by 2050 resonates with its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability on a global scale.
Emirates Global Aluminium, the largest industrial company in the United Arab Emirates outside oil and gas, and Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the MENAT (Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye) region, today announced the launch of an ESG-linked Supply Chain Finance (SCF) programme to advance sustainability in the aluminium giant’s supply chain.
The innovative programme is a first for EGA and in the broader manufacturing sector in the UAE.
The programme will contribute towards improving the sustainability of the UAE aluminium sector by incentivising existing and new suppliers to adopt and invest in sustainable practices, technologies and materials that are aligned with EGA’s sustainability goals and demonstrably improve their own sustainability performance.
Supply chain financing enables suppliers to access payment early and is an increasingly popular way to manage working capital. EGA suppliers have accessed some USD 1.5 billion of supply chain financing through other EGA-facilitated programmes since the start of 2022.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: “The aluminium EGA produces plays a key role in the development of a more sustainable society worldwide. We recognise that it also matters how sustainably aluminium is made. This includes the production of the goods and services we need. Innovative financing mechanisms, such as the ESG-linked supply chain programme with Emirates NBD, are an important way for us to accelerate sustainability progress by our suppliers.”
Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD said: “We are pleased to partner with EGA to unveil a pioneering ESG-linked Supply Chain Finance programme in the manufacturing sector. At Emirates NBD, we are committed to introducing new and innovative ESG-linked solutions for our clients and look forward to expanding the use of our Sustainable SCF programme in the region to guide our clients in the transition towards a more environmental-friendly business framework. As we embrace the Year of Sustainability in the UAE, these efforts reaffirm our dedication to drive positive environmental change aligning with the nation's ambitious Net Zero By 2050 Strategic Initiative. As the UAE prepares to host COP28, initiatives such as these will allow us to actively shape a more sustainable tomorrow for the MENAT region and beyond.”
EGA has some 3,300 active suppliers in the UAE and around the world. All are required to demonstrate compliance with the EGA’s Responsible Sourcing Standard, which details expectations on environmental, social and governance performance in line with OECD principles and the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative’s Performance Standard. EGA conducts a programme of due diligence and audits to verify sustainability performance, and works closely with critical suppliers to support continuous improvement.
EGA spends around USD 1.7 billion on goods and services each year from local UAE suppliers, accounting for 45 per cent of the company’s total global procurement spend. EGA is actively working to grow its local supply chain further in line with the UAE’s Operation 300bn industrial growth strategy and ‘Make it in the Emirates’.
A landmark survey revealed the continued strength of community expectations for environmental, social and governance (ESG) action among UAE corporations. Globally, business leaders are warned that public expectations for authentic action on ESG issues remain high in the face of cost-of-living pressures, and inaction — combined with silence about their efforts — could cost them customers.
The findings come as part of the third annual ESG Monitor, a 12-nation survey led by SEC Newgate*, the global strategic communications, advocacy and research group, with regional office in Dubai.
Over 90% of UAE respondents agree that corporates must prioritise ESG issues, indicating a shift from a sole focus on economic contributions. The research shows that we may have reached a tipping point, suggesting that the need for genuine action by corporations to address the impacts they have on people and the planet is no longer up for debate.
Some of the main UAE findings include:
- 86% rate their interest in ESG issues as high at 7+ out of 10, up by 3% since last year;
- 61% are aware of NetZero, a significant increase from just 56% in 2022;
- 86% gave the national government a rating of 7+ out of 10 when it came to acting responsibly on ESG issues; however, ratings of small companies have declined significantly this year;
The research shows that community opinions on ESG issues are translating into action and impacting behaviours. Compared to other countries, citizens in the UAE appear to place a higher importance on ESG issues in their day-to-day decision making. In particular, in the types of foods they eat (77% vs. 62% globally), the types of products they buy (76% vs. 62%), and how they choose to travel (74% vs. 55%).
There is a stark difference by generation across all surveyed countries, with Millennials far more likely to factor ESG issues into their decisions. For example, when it comes to the type of investments they make, 57% of Millennials rate ESG issues 7+ out of 10 on importance, compared to 47% of Baby Boomers. When considering a job with a new employer, 58% of Millennials give ESG issues a 7+ importance rating compared to 39% of Baby Boomers.
Speaking on the findings, Elena Gramatica, Managing Partner, SEC Newgate Middle East, said: “The third annual ESG Monitor highlights a shifting corporate landscape in the UAE. Traditionally, businesses were mainly seen as contributors to the economy, but now, our community demands they balance financial success with ESG responsibilities. People expect action on ESG issues and a voice on matters vital to employees and customers. To respond to the community, companies must proactively address their environmental impact and support others throughout their operations, from customers and employees to supply chains.”
Last year's survey identified a 'Great Disconnect' in ESG communications, and the 2023 survey shows that this disconnect still persists, particularly in the UAE. The community wants clearer communication of ESG efforts from companies, but trust in this messaging remains a challenge in the region.
Fiorenzo Tagliabue, Group CEO of SEC Newgate, commented: “Overall, it is clear from our research that consumer expectations have changed and the global community now expects organisations to think about their impacts on the planet and people from the outset.
“Employers will also have to respond to generational and national differences when communicating around the ESG issue. The good news is that community support for ESG agendas is continuing to grow, and there are now a multitude of organisations that companies can partner with to further their ESG credentials and communicate these initiatives in more impactful ways.”
Additional global ESG Monitor research findings:
- 67% rated their interest in ESG issues at 7 or more out of 10, up from 56% in 2022
- 77% agree it is important for companies to take action on ESG issues
- 71% agree that companies should speak out on issues that are important to their employees and customers
- Millennials are more optimistic for their country’s future than Baby Boomers
- The top three ‘most important’ issues across the globe, the research found that respondents were most concerned about:
- Addressing the rising cost of living (37% rated in top 3 issues)
- Ensuring quality, affordable healthcare for everyone (30%)
- Strengthening the economy (25%)
For more information, please do not hesitate to contact:
SEC Newgate Middle East
Daniela Gorini or Mai Touma
Daniela.Gorini@secnewgate.ae or mai.touma@secnewgate.ae
*How the research was conducted
Participants were sourced from global panel provider PureProfile, with questionnaires translated and completed in-language in Colombia, France, Germany, Hong Kong SAR, Italy, Poland, Spain and United Arab Emirates (UAE). Fieldwork was conducted from late July to early August 2023.
Quotas were set by age, gender and location to ensure a nationally representative sample of citizens aged 18+, and the final results were weighted by the actual age and gender proportions within each country or territory. For the ‘total’ results, each country is given equal weighting.
The full research is available upon request.
Samsung Engineering and Svante Technologies Inc. (Svante) announced today that they have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop and deliver commercial carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) projects in Asia and the Middle East, targeting hard-to-abate heavy industries including cement, steel, hydrogen, fertilizer and more, using Svante’s novel solid sorbent-based carbon capture filter technology. The two companies will also explore design iterations of Svante’s post-combustion carbon capture machines. The MoU was signed during the ADIPEC 2023 conference in Abu Dhabi, UAE on October 4, 2023.
Samsung Engineering is one of the world’s leading engineering solutions and project management companies in the world, with an ambition to lead in the energy transition. Samsung Engineering’s extensive experience in executing many projects, paired with Svante’s novel approach to carbon capture and removal, make this collaboration an innovative solution for clients in heavy industries looking to decarbonize.
An important goal for Samsung Engineering is to become a ‘’Beyond EPC – Green Solution Provider’. The company is working to transform itself from not only a conventional EPC player but also a green solutions provider, taking meaningful actions to decarbonize its own operations. “The time is now for the CCUS industry value chain players to rethink how they approach projects to deliver them faster, cheaper, and more efficiently. Undertaking multiple projects in parallel while using the same EPC contractor will greatly improve project performance”, said Hong Namkoong, President & CEO of Samsung Engineering.
Svante has developed a unique, environmentally responsible carbon capture and removal technology, which employs what it calls “structured adsorbent beds”, known as “filters”. The company’s filters are coated with nanoengineered solid adsorbent materials and can be used to capture CO2 from industrial emissions that come from the production of difficult-to-decarbonize, heavily relied-on commodities, including cement, steel, fertilizer, hydrogen, and more. The company’s filter technology can also be used for direct air capture (DAC), in which CO2 that has already been emitted into the atmosphere is trapped and removed from ambient air.
“We are delighted to welcome Samsung both as a strategic commercial collaborator and an investor in Svante, alongside our other strategic value chain partners and investors”, said Claude Letourneau, Svante’s President and CEO. “Samsung Engineering’s 50+ years of execution experience across the energy and industrial sectors will be invaluable as we continue to rapidly scale our operations and filter manufacturing capacity.”
One of the objectives of this collaboration is to offer industrial customers a one-stop-shop via an integrated project delivery model for carbon capture plants. This collaborative approach to building large industrial facilities is shown to be effective at optimizing industrial project management and performance.
The two companies will work together to identify, develop, and deliver commercial-scale carbon capture projects in the Asia and Middle East markets, ensuring heavy industries in these regions have more viable pathways to meet their emission reduction targets.
EWEC (Emirates Water and Electricity Company), a leading company in the integrated coordination of planning, purchasing, and supply of water and electricity across the UAE, and Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, one of the world’s leading clean energy companies, have signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for power generated from the UAE’s first utility-scale Wind Programme.
The agreement was signed following the official UAE Wind Programme inauguration presided over by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
The landmark agreement was signed by Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC, and Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Masdar Chief Executive Officer. Also in attendance was Dr Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate, and Chairman of Masdar, and His Excellency Engineer Awaidha Murshed Ali Al Marar, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE).
This strategic agreement will see EWEC procuring power from the UAE's utility-scale wind programme for the first time. Located at Sila, Sir Bani Yas Island and Delma Island, the wind power farms have a generation capacity up to 99 megawatts (MW) of renewable, carbon-free electricity, enough to power 22,000 homes, displacing 115,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide. The purchase agreement will draw power from 22 wind turbines standing at 95 metres high with a 155-metre wingspan, able to generate power at lower wind speeds, and also includes 14MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) power.
Being at the forefront of driving the country’s energy transition and decarbonising the energy sector, EWEC’s historic deployment of utility-scale renewable energy is accelerating the UAE’s realisation of its economic and sustainability objectives. With the addition of wind power, EWEC’s portfolio now encompasses multiple sources of strategic green energy, solidifying the UAE’s energy transition leadership.
Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC, said: “We are honoured to welcome His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council to inaugurate the UAE’s first utility-scale Wind Programme, and witness the signing of this landmark power purchase agreement which reflects a significant milestone for EWEC as we further expand our energy generation portfolio and increase the share of renewable energy in the UAE’s total energy mix. The addition of wind power to Abu Dhabi’s energy system enables EWEC to deliver power from a diverse array of renewable and clean sources that support the conservation and preservation of the UAE’s natural heritage while simultaneously accelerating the country’s socio-economic growth.
This strategic partnership with Masdar signifies our joint commitment to driving the country’s energy transition and significantly reducing the carbon emissions associated with energy generation. With the UAE hosting COP28 this year, EWEC is proud to be supporting the UAE in achieving its carbon-neutral future by mid-century and becoming the world’s most dynamic economy as outlined in the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative.”
Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Masdar's Chief Executive Officer, said: “This is a remarkable milestone in the UAE’s renewable energy journey as wind energy is now for the first time powering the UAE national grid through our partnership with EWEC. Thanks to the vision of the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Masdar was empowered to engineer and construct a technologically advanced, utility-scale wind programme across the UAE, collaborating with international partners, when many considered it impossible due to low wind speeds in the UAE. Today we see that pioneering vision become a reality as a result of UAE-led innovation and expertise.”
As the UAE prepares to host COP28 in the ‘Year of Sustainability’, EWEC and Masdar are collaborating to support the UAE in amplifying its climate change and sustainability credentials, by implementing tangible measures and actions in transitioning the energy sector towards an age relying more on renewable and clean energy future.
