First started in 1972, World Environment Day was created following the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm. And now World Environment Day is coming up this Wednesday, June 5th and in honour of all the things our planet has done for us, let’s take a look at some of the initiatives UAE has in place to help protect our planet.
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1. The Paris Agreement & SDGs
The UAE was one of the first nations to ratify the Paris Agreement in 2016. It submitted its first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2015, which included goals like increasing clean energy to 24% of the total energy mix by 2021. In 2020, the UAE’s second NDC set a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 23.5% by 2030. Efforts include boosting clean energy use, enhancing energy efficiency, expanding carbon capture, promoting sustainable agriculture, and implementing eco-friendly waste management.
2. Post-COVID Sustainable Recovery
The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) is dedicated to promoting sustainable economic growth. At the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Forum in January 2021, GGGI’s director emphasised the need for a sustainable recovery post-COVID-19, highlighting the potential for green investments to create more jobs. GGGI collaborates with member governments to develop Low Emission Development Strategies that support net-zero targets, providing clarity for businesses and markets.
3. Vision 2021
Launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vision 2021 addresses six major challenges: cohesive society, safe public and fair judiciary, competitive knowledge economy, first-rate education system, world-class healthcare, and sustainable environment and infrastructure.
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4. Vision 2040
In March 2021, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum introduced the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. This plan aims to double the size of green and recreational spaces, with nature reserves and rural areas constituting 60% of Dubai’s total area. Green corridors will connect residential, service, and work areas, promoting pedestrian, bicycle, and sustainable mobility.
5. UAE Green Agenda 2015-2030
The UAE Green Agenda, approved in 2015, provides a framework for green economy actions with five strategic objectives: Competitive Knowledge Economy, Social Development & Quality of Life, Sustainable Environment & Valued Natural Resources, Clean Energy & Climate Action, and Green Life & Sustainable Use of Resources. Initiatives include promoting sustainable practices, green manufacturing, and green jobs.
6. Supporting Green Industries
With the UAE Green Growth Strategy, the UAE has taken significant steps to transition to a green economy. This strategy promotes the UAE as a hub for green products and technologies. The Dubai government launched an AED 100 billion Dubai Green Fund to attract private investments in clean energy. This fund supports projects like the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park and energy efficiency improvements at Dubai International Airport.
With these comprehensive initiatives, the UAE is not just talking about sustainability—it’s taking bold, impactful actions to create a greener, more sustainable future for everyone.
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