The Ministry of Economy has today announced that three companies specialised in clean energy technology from China and the United States have joined the NextGenFDI programme, underlining the status of the UAE as a platform for pioneering enterprises and ideas.
The companies, which specialise in innovative storage and generation solutions, will contribute to advancing the UAE’s clean-energy goals and support its transition to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy.
The three companies are: Enerflow, a specialist in vanadium flow battery technology, which is promising to lengthen the lifecycles of rechargeable batteries – from four to ten hours – used in clean-energy storage;HyGreen Energy, which is developing water electrolysis hydrogen equipment for a variety of industries, including steel and petrochemical; and Enpower Greentech, which is helping to revolutionise the battery industry with its solid-state batteries (ASSBs), which have been developed in collaboration leading automotive OEMs and eVTOL companies globally.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, welcomed the addition of the three companies, and underscored the role the NextGenFDI programme is playing in driving innovation in critical industries such as clean energy in the UAE.
He said, “The three new members to the NextGen FDI programme have each developed pioneering solutions that align with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable, low-carbon future. Their involvement in NextGenFDI underscores our commitment to support strategic investment into high-impact technologies and clean-energy solutions in particular. This will not only support the expansion and growth of these enterprises, it will enhance the clean-tech sector in the UAE as a whole and confirm our status as a global leader sustainability and innovation.”
Since its launch in 2022, the NextGenFDI initiative has sought to attract innovation-led companies from around the world by offering a range of market-entry benefits, including fast-track set-up and licensing, visa issuance and access to financial services.
Companies also gain the benefit of the growing NextGenFDI network, through which they can share knowledge and support expansion into local and regional markets.
Senior representatives of the three companies expressed their enthusiasm for joining the NextGenFDI initiative. Bo Wang, Chairman of Enerflow, stated, “The United Arab Emirates stands as the perfect gateway for expanding into key markets across the Middle East and Europe, offering an unparalleled ecosystem and world-class connectivity. Aligned with our vision for cleaner, more efficient energy solutions, the UAE’s NextGen FDI programme presents a unique opportunity for collaboration across multiple industries. As a leader in the vanadium flow battery energy storage industry, we are eager to contribute our expertise to this dynamic region."
“We are particularly enthusiastic about investing in the UAE, including establishing manufacturing facilities that will leverage the nation’s advanced photovoltaic infrastructure and robust chemical, petroleum, and energy production capabilities. Joining the NextGen FDI programme reflects our commitment to fostering sustainable innovation, hand in hand with the UAE’s progressive energy landscape,” Wang added.
Weiwei Zhang, Secretary of the Board of Directors of HyGreen Energy, confirmed the value of the NextGenFDI initiative. “We are thrilled to join the UAE’s NextGen FDI initiative and to be able to bring our green hydrogen expertise to this forward-thinking nation, one whose commitment to clean energy aligns perfectly with our range of cutting-edge solutions. The support provided by the programme will enable us to establish and scale our presence in the UAE, where we aim to contribute to the nation’s energy transition towards a more sustainable, green hydrogen-based future,” she said.
HyGreen Energy has installed more than 500 sets of its systems across 24 countries and regions globally, and is the only company possessing three distinct water electrolysis technology pathways: ALK, PEM and AEM in China.
Yani Kong, Shareholder & SVP of Enpower Greentech, said, “We are delighted to join the UAE’s NextGenFDI initiative and introduce our transformative technology to the UAE and the wider region. The pursuit for clean, renewable, and storable energy is a collective challenge, but one that drives innovation across countries and stakeholders. We are excited to continue this journey in partnership with the UAE, a nation committed to climate-tech and low-carbon solutions.”
Launched by the UAE Ministry of Economy, NextGenFDI is aimed at attracting global high-tech companies to the UAE to foster innovation, support the growth of SMEs, and drive the development of sustainable industries. With a focus on sectors such as ICT, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, the initiative is playing a pivotal role in the UAE’s economic diversification strategy.
Source: Staff Writer, WAM (Emirates News Agency)
UAE residents have very high expectations for businesses to act responsibly on Environmental, Social and Governance issues, a landmark survey has revealed. Of those asked, 90% of UAE participants have given an importance rating of 7 or more out of 10 for large businesses, and a similar rating (88%) for small to medium businesses. Globally, expectations are lower with only 81% saying the same for large businesses and 75% for small to medium businesses, showing that corporations in the UAE are held to a much higher standard by the population.
More than 14,300 people across 14 countries and territories were surveyed* as part of the fourth annual ESG Monitor report from SEC Newgate, the global strategic communications, advocacy and research group, with regional offices in Dubai and Riyadh.
Just over four in five (82%) in the UAE said that companies should play a more active role in society – but getting the balance right is critical.
However, optimism is high in the UAE, and there is a strong belief (83%) that performing well on ESG responsibilities doesn’t have to come at the expense of profitability, while people overwhelmingly believe (67%) that companies should act in the best interests of all stakeholders rather than prioritising shareholders ahead of other stakeholders.
People care a lot about broader social and environmental issues, and significantly, 97% asked said the UAE is on the right track (putting the UAE in first place and much higher than the global average of 47%)
Some of the additional key findings from the UAE included:
- Of those asked, 87% think it’s important to transition to renewable/clean energy sources
- 85% think it’s important to act decisively on climate change
- The research found that awareness of the term 'ESG' was stable in 2024, scoring 54% globally versus 53% in 2023. Respondents in the UAE are very familiar with the term, being the 3rd most likely country to say they had a good understanding of ESG (39%), behind only Singapore (41%) and Hong Kong (43%).
- With regards to communicating their concerns around ESG, the vast majority of people in the UAE (84%) agreed that companies should more clearly communicate what they are doing to improve their performance on ESG issues.
Speaking on the findings, Elena Gramatica, Founder and CEO, SEC Newgate Middle East, said, “Our annual ESG Monitor has shown that people have high expectations of organisations to behave responsibly on ESG matters, particularly in the UAE.
“Despite other pressing concerns of the public in their day to day lives, most still see environmental, social and governance issues as important to address – even if they don’t view these through a formal ‘ESG’ lens. This is both a communication and operational challenge for businesses and governments so there is still more work to be done when it comes to ESG.
“However, there is great optimism in the UAE with people having a comprehensive understanding of ESG and the positive role that the government is playing and supporting corporations to be more accountable.”
Speaking on the findings, Fiorenzo Tagliabue, Group CEO of SEC Newgate, said, “Our global ESG Monitor has found that corporate communication shortcomings are clear to see, with a large majority believing companies need to more clearly communicate what they are doing to improve their performance on ESG issues and address stakeholder needs.
"Compliance with ESG reporting standards is just a starting point, it ensures business meets its regulatory requirements, but it does not signify excellence or an ambitious plan to drive impact through corporate operations.
“Clearly, a considered approach is needed to overcome scepticism, with many not trusting what companies claim about ESG and given that many believe companies focused on ESG initiatives are too politically focused.
“Business is under intense scrutiny on ESG issues, but failing to act ambitiously and failing to be transparent about your plans and achievements on ESG issues poses a significant reputational risk."
For further information and to download the SEC Newgate ESG Monitor 2024 reports please click here.
How the research was conducted*
SEC Newgate surveyed more than 14,300 people online across 14 countries and territories between the 4th and 29th of July. Participants were sourced from market research panels, with the survey translated and completed in-language where appropriate.
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 countries and territories include: Australia, Brazil (a new region for the survey), Colombia, France, Germany, Greece (a new region for the survey), Hong Kong SAR, Italy, Poland, Singapore, Spain, the UAE, the UK and the USA.
About SEC Newgate
- SEC Newgate is an insights and research-driven global strategic communications and advocacy group, headquartered in Milan, Italy.
- It works at the nexus of business, politics, communities, markets and media to deliver positive outcomes for clients and communities in a connected world, where companies increasingly need communications partners with strong local roots, global reach and true entrepreneurial spirit, driven forward by talented people.
- The SEC Newgate team operates seamlessly across five continents, helping clients clearly demonstrate their purpose and value, delivering around the clock counsel and support, implementing campaigns locally, nationally and internationally.
Further information is available at the Group's website: www.secnewgate.com
For more information, please contact:
SEC Newgate Middle East
Daniela Gorini |Daniela.Gorini@secnewgate.ae
Ihab Youssef | ihab.youssef@secnewgate.ae
Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC) has launched their Sustainability Lounge, a co-working space for members dedicated to advancing sustainable building practices. The lounge was inaugurated by Cristina Gamboa, CEO of the World Green Building Council, and Khaled Bushnaq, Chairman of EmiratesGBC, who showcased their innovative approaches to sustainability.
This dynamic co-working hub, located within the EmiratesGBC office, has been designed to promote collaboration, education, and innovation among professionals dedicated to advancing sustainable building practices. The Lounge will serve as a central meeting point for EmiratesGBC members to network and drive forward sustainable solutions within the built environment. It will be a central space for exchanging ideas and fostering excellence in sustainability within the built environment.
Khaled Bushnaq, Chairman of EmiratesGBC, said; “Emirates Green Building Council’s commitment to driving change to ensure a greener, more resilient built environment for the future of the planet and its people finds a new avenue through the Sustainability Lounge. Thoughtfully designed for optimum performance, the fully sustainable site aims to be a landmark networking space to further Emirates Green Building Council’s green agenda. We invite all innovative creatives to collaborate to push the boundaries on sustainability for the greater good of our community.”
Cristina Gamboa, CEO of the World Green Building Council, said; “As the largest leading global action network catalyzing sustainability in the built environment, the World Green Building Council is proud to be at the opening of the Sustainability Lounge within EmiratesGBC. We have for long been championing the cause of sustainable buildings as a climate solution and EmiratesGBC’s latest venture is further proof that a collaborative approach is best to accelerate climate action and boost energy efficiency in the built environment.”
A collaborative co-working space for innovation and excellence, the Sustainability Lounge includes a Wall of Fame, and a Nourishment Space. Members can display their sustainability products and their work on the Wall of Fame, which serves as a platform for sharing innovations and promoting sustainability practices within the community.
Made with responsibly sourced sustainable materials, the Lounge offers a comfortable and functional space dedicated to fostering collaboration and driving innovation in sustainable building practices. Among the sustainable features of the Lounge are ultra-low VOC decorative paint with anti-mold properties; ultra-low iron content glass that maximizes natural illumination; flooring with Re-Use series porcelain tiles made of 100% pre-consumer recycled materials; furniture crafted from recycled plastic sources from post-industrial waste and products made using eco-friendly Palm Strand Boards (PSB).
The Green Walls of the Lounge have been designed with innovative fabric pocket structure that allows plants to absorb air and return excess water to the circulation tank. The wood materials are formaldehyde-free board from upcycled palm waste, locally made in the UAE that reduces carbon emissions associated with transportation. The curtains of the Sustainable Lounge are made of industrial hemp, the most sustainable fiber on planet.
EmiratesGBC, is a non-profit organization aimed at advancing sustainability in the built environment by strengthening and promoting green building practices. The official Green Building Council for the UAE endorsed by the World Green Building Council is focused on ensuring sustainability and protecting the environment with the overarching vision of turning UAE into a global leader for sustainability in the built environment.
Follow EmiratesGBC at https://emiratesgbc.org/about/sustainability-lounge/ to learn more about the Sustainability Lounge.
Dubai Airports has announced a landmark collaboration with Etihad Clean Energy Development Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa), to launch the world's largest rooftop solar panel installation project at its airport.
This phased project, totalling 39MWp of clean energy, which will be fully operational by 2026, involves the installation of 62,904 solar panels across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International (DWC) airports.
Set to generate 60,346MWh power annually, it marks a significant stride toward decarbonising airport operations.
The announcement was made in the presence of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa).
To solidify this ambitious initiative, Dubai Airports and Etihad Energy Services Company formalised an agreement during the World Green Economy Summit (WGES) organised by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and the World Green Economy Organisation.
The agreement was signed by Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, and Dr Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad Esco.
Al Tayer said the roadmap outlines clear targets of achieving 25% of the energy mix from clean energy sources by 2030, and 100 percent by 2050.
"We anticipate surpassing these goals, potentially reaching 27% clean energy capacity as early as 2030, which would enable us to achieve our 2050 vision ahead of schedule. Innovation and cutting-edge technologies are instrumental in expediting our progress towards a greener future," he added.
The solar panels, which will span passenger terminals and concourses across both airports, are expected to offset 23,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, equivalent to taking 5,000 cars off the road or powering 3,000 homes for a year.
The energy generated will meet 6.5 percent of DXB’s power needs and 20 percent of DWC’s, reinforcing Dubai Airports' long-term vision for cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable operations.
Griffiths said: "Airports are significant energy consumers, but with that comes tremendous opportunity and responsibility to drive real change. For us, this is not just about installing solar panels; it’s about embedding sustainability into the core of everything we do."
"Every kilowatt we generate from renewable sources brings us closer to shrinking our carbon footprint and future-proofing our operations. This is about setting the standard and leading the way for what a truly sustainable airport can achieve," he added.
Dr Waleed Alnuaimi, CEO of Etihad Esco, said: “Our longstanding partnership with Dubai Airports plays a pivotal role in our strategy to accelerate Dubai’s sustainability agenda. By broadening the solar footprint and implementing transformative initiatives like Shams Dubai, we are not only reducing energy demand but also driving the adoption of sustainable energy solutions across the emirate."
"This project, and others like it, demonstrates our commitment to building an integrated ecosystem that aligns with Dubai’s vision for a greener, more energy-efficient future," he stated.
The project builds on the successful installation of solar panels at DXB’s Terminal 2 and Concourse D, where solar power is already playing a vital role in reducing energy consumption and lowering emissions, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
Source: TradeArabia
In a strategic step towards achieving its sustainability goals, Gargash Group, a leading business enterprise in the UAE, has partnered with Mashreq, one of the leading financial institutions in the MENA region. This collaboration, officially inaugurated with an MoU signing ceremony at the Mercedes-Benz Brand Center in Dubai Design District, was crystalized with their debut Green Loan that was extended earlier for a number of projects across Gargash Group. The two institutions are also in discussion on future ESG integration initiatives for the Group, including but not limited to other Sustainability-Linked facilities.
By obtaining its first Green Loan, Gargash Group aligns itself with a prestigious and select group of UAE enterprises that have leveraged impactful and sustainable financing solutions. The partnership aims to promote and advance robust sustainability agendas for both Gargash Group and Mashreq by setting and achieving ambitious sustainability targets.
As a tangible expression of these goals, Gargash Group is planning solar installations across 25 sites in the next three years, with an energy potential totaling over 5 MW. While 5 sites are expected to be completed as early as 2025, plans are also underway to execute energy efficiency projects spanning across 25 of its sites. Finance requirements for these plans are to be covered through the Green Loan facility from Mashreq.
Walid Hizaoui, Group Chief Strategy Officer at Gargash Group shared his insights at the event, stating, “This partnership marks a critical milestone in our sustainability journey. With a reliable and trusted banking partner supporting us, we are wholeheartedly committed to integrating sustainability practices into every aspect of our operations for a greener future. We have meticulously scoped our businesses and implemented the necessary infrastructure to monitor our progress towards decarbonization—our ultimate long-term goal. This initiative not only underscores our unwavering commitment to reducing the nation's carbon footprint but also aligns with the UAE Green Agenda 2030 and UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050, promoting sustainable practices across the board.”
Thomas Schulz, General Manager Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars at Gargash Enterprises, added, “This is an important milestone that will help drive the Mercedes-Benz brand forward, a brand long rooted in values of innovation and sustainability. This collaboration is a main catalyst fueling our commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030 in the UAE. Our commitment to this objective reflects our dedication to the brand and our responsibility to the UAE, as we push forward in sustainable mobility. With a solid framework in place, we are confident our efforts will drive meaningful progress towards a greener future.”
Karim Amer, Head of Automotive Sector at Mashreq commented, “Mashreq is proud to support Gargash Group's transition towards a sustainable future through their inaugural Green Loan and other potential Sustainability-Linked facilities. This financing is designed to enable remarkable reductions in emissions and accelerate decarbonization initiatives which we have been actively driving across the Automotive sector, through proactive engagement with our clients on both formulization as well as execution of their Sustainability Strategies. By aligning financial incentives with sustainability objectives, we aim to enhance operational efficiencies for our partners and set a benchmark that encourages other organizations to integrate energy efficiency and sustainability into their core strategies.”
The partnership between Gargash Group and Mashreq is a significant step forward in the collective effort to achieve a sustainable future and it also demonstrates their commitment to a more responsible and environmentally conscious business landscape.
Moro Hub, a subsidiary of Digital DEWA, the digital arm of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (PJSC), has awarded the Green Certificate to Parkin Company (PJSC(, the leading public parking provider in the Emirate of Dubai. The certificate was presented by Mohammed Bin Sulaiman, CEO of Moro Hub to Eng. Osama Hashim Alsafi, Chief Operation and Technology Officer of Parkin, at WETEX 2024, the region’s largest sustainability and clean energy technology exhibition which runs from 1st to 3rd of October at the Dubai World Trade Center. The certificate was presented to Parkin in recognition of its sustainability efforts through the deployment of Moro Green Cloud.
The Green Certificate is awarded to organizations that demonstrate a measurable reduction in their carbon emissions and energy consumption through the use of Moro’s innovative technology solutions. By adopting Moro Green Cloud, Parkin has reduced its energy usage, supporting broader environmental goals to achieve green economy.The Moro Green Cloud is designed to offer organizations a sustainable cloud computing environment, powered by renewable energy. This solution helps companies significantly reduce their carbon footprint while optimizing their IT operations, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable and green economy.
“We are delighted to present Parkin with the Green Certificate, recognizing proactive steps in reducing their carbon footprint by transitioning to our green cloud platform. This collaboration reflects the growing momentum among forward-thinking companies to embrace digital transformation while remaining committed to environmental responsibility,” said Mohammed Bin Sulaiman, CEO of Moro Hub.
“At Parkin, sustainability is at the core of our business. Partnering with Moro Hub and utilizing the Moro Green Cloud has enabled us to significantly enhance our operational efficiency while contributing to a cleaner and greener future. We are honored to receive the Green Certificate and we look forward to our continued collaboration with Moro Hub,” said Eng. Osama Hashim Alsafi, Chief Operation and Technology Officer of Parkin.
Moro Hub remains committed to driving the region’s digital and environmental transformation by offering cutting-edge, energy-efficient solutions like the Moro Green Cloud. The collaboration with Parkin highlights the growing importance of sustainable cloud technologies in shaping a future built on green innovation.
-Ends-
About Moro Hub:
As part of 10X, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (PJSC) mobilised its innovation unit to create a new entity called Digital DEWA, which uses innovation in artificial intelligence and digital services to meet the current and future requirements brought about by the 4th industrial revolution. This entity required an innovative, agile data hub, and thus Moro Hub was established. Forming the backbone of Digital DEWA, Moro Hub was introduced to fulfil the need for an innovative and agile data centre. Through its purpose-built, industry-accredited data hub, Moro Hub uses its expertise, capabilities and alliances to contribute to the digital transformation of society. Trusted to secure, manage, and integrate data, Moro Hub is committed to providing value through customer-centric innovation, creating new opportunities now and in the future. For more info, please visit www.morohub.com.
Three Marriott group hotels were recently awarded Gold certifications, from the internationally-renowned Green Globe certification (GGC) programme, for their commitment to eco-friendly operational practices.
The Delta Hotel by Marriott Jumeriah Beach and the Four Points by Sheraton properties in Bur Dubai and on Sheikh Zayed Road, achieved Gold status after rigorous and extensive, independent audits, carried out by Green Globe’s preferred partner in the Middle East, Dubai-headquartered sustainability consultancy Farnek.
“During the audit process and assessment, all three hotels complied with and in some cases even surpassed more than 380 rigorous sustainability indicators, achieving ratings of 93% and above.
“This clearly underscores their commitment to the environment and of course to the UAE’s net zero 2050 strategy,” said Muna Al Nahdi, Head of Sustainability & Consultancy, Farnek.
The Four Points by Sheraton, Sheikh Zayed Road and Bur Dubai, which have both been certified by Green Globe over the past five years, achieved their first Gold rating this year, through a raft of eco-friendly projects.
These included food recycling and waste management initiatives, automated air conditioning cleaning systems and retrofitting solar water heaters, amongst other sustainability initiatives.
The Delta Hotel by Marriott, Jumeirah Beach, also received a Gold rating, through innovative programmes such as supplying staff with reusable laundry bags made from old guest linen. The hotel has also installed lighting motion sensors in all back-of-house areas and has carried out retrofits on fresh air handling units to achieve improved energy performance and a reduction in carbon emissions.
“Achieving Green Globe‘s Gold certification clearly illustrates our determination to reduce our impact on the environment. Each and every member of staff has contributed to this award and it is gratifying to have our efforts formally recognised by an independent auditor.
“This will undoubtedly assure our guests that we are unequivocally supporting responsible tourism,” said Karolina Paliszewska, Cluster Property General Manager, Delta Hotels by Marriott,
Having signed its original partnership agreement with Green Globe in 2009, Farnek has certified well over 100 hotels and leisure facilities in 38 cities across the MENA region. This has enabled members to save in excess of 180 million kWh of energy, worth over $20 million, and more than two million cubic metres of water, valued at approximately $5 million.
About Green Globe Certification
Green Globe is the worldwide sustainability system based on internationally accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses. Operating under a worldwide license, Green Globe is based in California, USA and is represented in over 83 countries. Green Globe is an Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
For information, please log on to www.greenglobe.com
About Farnek:
Farnek is the leading provider of sustainable and technology-driven Facilities Management in the United Arab Emirates. Established in the UAE since 1980, Farnek Services LLC is a Swiss-owned independent facilities management company.
With a skilled workforce of more than 9,000 employees, Farnek delivers professional Facilities Management services to across several sectors; Aviation, Hospitality, Banking, Retail, Shopping Malls, Telecom, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, Government, Education, Leisure and Entertainment.
For more information, please log on to www.farnek.com
Media contact:
STEVEN JONES
Managing Director
Tel : +971 4 365 2711 | Mobile : +971 50 455 9769
E-mail: steven.jones@shamalcomms.com
Indigo Icon Tower, Jumeirah Lakes Towers
PO Box 337521 | Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Website: www.shamalcomms.com
du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), in partnership with leading smart and green facilities management company Farnek, today announced that it has exceeded its first-quarter waste management targets, achieving a significant 21% diversion of waste from landfills across all du locations in the UAE, a total of 145 sites. This milestone is a part of du's larger commitment to sustainability and its journey towards Net Zero emissions, marking a promising start to an ambitious three-year plan.
The accomplishment builds on du's determination to reduce its environmental impact and align with the UAE's vision for a sustainable future. The H1 success comes because of the implementation of innovative strategies to minimize waste generation across all corporate premises. A comprehensive waste audit and the introduction of state-of-the-art composting machinery at du headquarters have been fundamental to achieving these results. Emphasizing education, over a thousand du employees have been empowered through training and awareness raising, equipping them with skills to manage waste more effectively.
Adel Al Raees, Head of Corporate Communication & Protocol at du said: "Our waste management initiatives symbolize du’s push towards responsible stewardship through remedial action taken to enhance sustainability but also anticipate the vast potential for environmental innovation within the telecom industry. By surpassing our planned 16% goal, we have set a positive precedence for forthcoming months, reflecting our continuous efforts in achieving our long-term aspiration of becoming a net-zero waste entity. We are not just transforming our company - we are contributing to a movement that is important for the UAE, and the global environment."
Muna Alnahdi, Head of Sustainability, at Farnek said: “Successfully navigating the net-zero transition in the UAE, particularly in waste management, requires addressing complex stakeholder dynamics. We’ve adopted an innovative approach that brings together key stakeholders —our facility management team, waste management experts, du's leadership, and their staff—to work in unison. du’s impressive 21% waste diversion in H1 highlights the effectiveness of this collaborative effort and their steadfast commitment to sustainability. By focusing on waste reduction and composting, we aim to significantly reduce methane emissions further, a crucial step toward achieving net-zero goals."
The successes of the first quarter have been catalysed by a progressive roadmap which encompassed a full-scale waste audit, streamlined data gathering process through technology integration (Wastek), ambitious waste reduction goals, overcoming unique waste challenges, and a step-by-step plan for improvement. Leveraging our expertise of green cleaning and sustainable waste management solutions, Farnek is committed to reducing du’s landfill waste by 30-50% over the next three years. By exceeding their H1 targets and engaging in wholehearted corporate participation, du sets a precedent for ecological responsibility and champions a waste-smart future in the UAE.
AD Ports Group announced today the release of its 2023 Sustainability Report, in which it highlights significant progress in its decarbonisation plans, demonstrating its proactive and forward-thinking approach to addressing global sustainability challenges.
The report reflects AD Ports Group commitment, as a listed entity on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, to sharing performance with stakeholders and transparency in operations. As a key player in the maritime, industrial, and logistics sectors, the Group’s initiatives align with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sustainability objectives set by Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
The report explores the Group’s journey, partnerships, and collaborative efforts, aspiring to shape a more sustainable and resilient future for all. It emphasises the pivotal role of AD Ports Group in fostering positive environmental, social, and economic impacts (ESG).
Some of the wide-ranging achievements covered in the report were the successful introduction of 124 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, an 84% employee job satisfaction rate, a 57% increase in the total number of employee training hours and a 42% increase in the number of female employees.
The Group also received several prestigious awards for its Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) work during the year from the United Nations, the Harvard Business Council, an International Business Award and an Abu Dhabi Sustainable Business Leadership Award, among others.
A major highlight was the Group’s progress in decarbonisation. In 2023, the Group reduced the environmental intensity of container port handling operations through efficiency gains, energy savings and decarbonisation efforts. its greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity, an industry measure of the environmental impact of industrial activity, fell by 2%, in 2023 to 11.67 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent per TEU (Twenty Foot Equivalent Unit) (kgCO2e per TEU) in 2023 from 11.93 kgCO2e per TEU in 2022.
The reductions were achieved through greater efficiency within the Group’s container handling operations, more energy savings at its terminals, and ongoing decarbonisation efforts such as the increased use of electricity from solar photovoltaic (PV) units.
The 2023 Sustainability Report reported a 7% reduction in electricity consumption intensity. The improvements were amongst a broader set of sustainability gains that also included a 174% increase in the quantity of solid waste that was recycled.
The solar PV electric generating capacity integrated into its 2023 operations has contributed to a reduction of 5,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent using clean energy.
The Group has solar PV integration projects planned at Khalifa Port, Zayed Port and its administrative headquarters in Abu Dhabi, and at a multipurpose port operation in Safaga, Egypt, which the Group manages under a concession for Egypt’s Red Sea Ports Authority.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, AD Ports Group Managing Director and CEO, said, “In our determined effort to foster equitable growth and inspired by our leadership’s wise vision, AD Ports Group has taken significant strides in diversifying the UAE’s economy, while adhering to our sustainability commitments. AD Ports Group has achieved significant progress in advancing its sustainability agenda. As we navigate an ever-evolving global landscape, our commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance principles remains at the core of our strategy.”
Captain Saif Al Mheiri, Abu Dhabi Maritime CEO and Acting Chief Sustainability Officer at AD Ports Group, stated, “I salute our teams for their hard work and commitment to advancing AD Ports Group’s sustainability goals; their efforts are clearly reflected in the positive results of our 2023 Sustainability Report. As we continue to grow and expand, AD Ports Group’s experience shows that it is possible to grow sustainably, advancing business and societal goals.”
AD Ports Group is a diversified trade, transport, logistics and industrial development group that is active in more than 50 countries around the world. The Group operates five main business clusters in Ports, Maritime & Shipping, Economic Cities & Free Zones, Logistics and Digital.
In 2023, AD Ports Group’s flagship Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi was named the world’s third-most efficient container port in the Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) published by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence.
Source: Esraa Esmail, WAM (Emirates News Agency)
Mubadala Energy, the Abu Dhabi headquartered international energy company, has today announced significant progress across key Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) drivers, including a two-thirds reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from 2022.
Launching its 2023 report, the company also noted a near halving of energy consumption across its operated portfolio, marking a major acceleration in efforts to decarbonise the business.
In line with the company’s strategy to support the energy transition, Mubadala Energy’s gas weighting increased from 66 percent in 2022 to 69 percent in 2023. As a far less carbon intensive fuel, gas plays a key role in enabling a sustainable transition and coupled with further traction in new energy sectors including Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) and geothermal, this report highlights Mubadala Energy’s transformation in action. In addition, the company recorded a significant improvement in its GHG emissions, with a 66 percent reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions last year, bringing its average emissions intensity to 15.3 kgCO2e/boe.
Commenting on this year’s report, Mansoor Mohamed Al Hamed, Managing Director and CEO at Mubadala Energy, said, “Mubadala Energy’s fifth annual sustainability report highlights our progress in putting sustainability at the heart of the business. We’re proud to have made a significant reduction in both emissions and energy consumption, paired with real progress across our social impact and governance. We continue to deliver operational excellence and uphold our impressive safety record, while investing in our people and the communities we serve.”
“With a clear strategy to proactively contribute to the energy transition by expanding our position in gas as a key bridge fuel, last year we also announced the first of our game-changing gas discoveries in Indonesia. This new growth platform will see sustainability continue to be at heart of our plans for the future as we accelerate our contribution to the energy transition,” he added.
Last year also saw Mubadala Energy make significant strides in its new energies’ growth strategy. Commenting on this, Sumiyyah Mohammed, Vice President, Growth and New Energies at Mubadala Energy noted, “Collaboration and partnerships have been key to advancing our progress in new energy arms such as CCUS and geothermal energy; we continue to work closely with our stakeholders across the industry to ensure we are at the forefront of these and other low carbon solutions in the region where we do business.”
The report highlighted that there were zero spills of greater than 1 barrel recorded in the company's operated assets from inception to date. The company is committed to plant 700,000 mangroves in the UAE by 2030.
There was 62 percent reduction in flared gas within the operated assets compared to 2022.
On social front, there was zero total recordable injury rate (TRIR), and a lost-time injury rate (LTIR) across all operated assets. There were over 24,000 beneficiaries of the CSR projects in 2023, with well over 1 million people positively impacted in the last ten years. There is 27 percent female representation across the entire organization, which is significantly above the industry average.
On the governance front, zero incidents of non-compliance were recorded with applicable laws and regulations in 2023. About 72 percent of Total Spend in 2023 was on local suppliers. Independent members of the Board of Directors constituted 43 percent.
Mubadala Energy’s 2023 Sustainability Report was prepared in accordance with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards and includes alignment with the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate Related Disclosures (TCFD) where applicable. The report discloses its impact in 2023 examining several key performance indicators across areas such as operational and environmental impact, social contribution, human capital, and governance. The review also provides a detailed appraisal of the company’s contribution to achieving the key UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Source: Staff Writer, WAM (Emirates News Agency)
