creating green communities for a better tomorro 157157...email: [email protected] creating green communities f or a better tomorro w 6 President Khalifa calls for continued

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Energy efficiency is taking its place as a major energy resource in the context of national and international efforts to achieve sustainability targets. Although the initial capital outlay tends to be higher, this is paid back in the form of reduced energy costs within a short time period making efficiency improvements an attractive starting point for reducing carbon emissions. Improving efficiency also means encouraging innovation and technology, creating jobs, reducing our dependence on non-renewable resources, and saving money.

Last month, Zayed International Foundation for the Environment partnered with Prince Albert II Foundation of Monaco and GE to organize the inaugural Emirates Energy Efficiency Summit in Dubai which sought to encourage global discussion and knowledge sharing on the issues of energy saving and climate change projects and initiatives.

Through its diverse strategies and investments in clean and renewable energy, the UAE is now leading global efforts in this area, despite having the second-largest oil reserves in the world. In November last year, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to make Dubai a global centre of clean energy and green economy.

The aim of this initiative is to provide 75 per cent of the emirate’s energy through clean energy sources by 2050, with the ultimate goal of becoming the city with the smallest carbon footprint in the world by 2050.

Now, more than ever, energy efficiency improvement across the sectors assumes critical importance in view of the ever increasing energy needs caused by high population growth and infrastructure development. Energy efficiency is undoubtedly the fundamental lever for the economic and technologic growth of any country. I sincerely believe that the adoption of energy efficient technologies can not only strengthen long-term energy security but also generate national wealth savings and decrease carbon intensity in the electricity value chain.

Prof. Mohammed bin FahadExecutive Editor

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Earth hour2016 20

From skylines to timelines, Earth

Hour 2016 to be celebrated on 19th

March shines a light on climate action

Certification46

Two Dubai hotels ‘Go Green’ and

reduce utility bills by over AED 4

million in 2015ocean development

Technology42

‘Nanotechnologies can lead to

ground-breaking innovations in

renewable energy’

HybridS 28RTA unveils plans

to convert 50% of Dubai Taxi fleet to

hybrid cabs by 2021

Forum 50Global Forum

for Innovations in Agriculture

addresses the future of sustainable

agriculture

COVER STORY10

Industry leaders and prominent

thinkers gather to tackle energy

efficiency issues at UAE summit

UAE Environment

Day 6UAE National

Environment Day was celebrated on

4th February

Wastemanagement

56Bee’ah to provide

integrated recycling and

waste management logistics for Dubai’s World Trade Centre.

COVER STORY16

Zayed International Foundation for

the Environment to contribute US$

100,000 for the development of

a novel textbook on green economy

East’s urbanization

Opinion 36‘Getting serious

about sustainable products is the best practice companies

can employ for their stakeholders’

c r e a t i n g g r e e n c o m m u n i t i e s f o r a b e t t e r t o m o r r o w

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In support of the 19th UAE National Environment Day held last month under the slogan ‘Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability’, the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment entered into an agreement with UNEP to prepare and publish a new book on “Green Economy” which we hope will become the international manual for applying the concept of green development. Following up on the UN’s formal adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in September 2015 that is composed of 17 goals and 169 targets, this Global Green Economy Curriculum Sourcebook will also provide guidance on curricula framework development for university academics

on global Green Economy.

The Zayed Foundation’s role in promoting a culture of environmental awareness was further strengthened when it partnered with The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and GE to organize the inaugural Emirates Energy Efficiency Summit in Dubai last month. By encouraging global discussion and knowledge sharing on the key issues of energy saving initiatives and climate change projects, the Zayed Foundation helped provide a platform to foster a two-way dialogue that will ultimately help drive real action to the key global energy challenges.

As Secretary General of the Zayed Foundation, I had the opportunity to elaborate through a presentation “The What, Why, and How of Energy Efficiency” which linked the international approach and strategy of energy efficiency initiatives with the national efforts of the UAE. I stressed that improving energy efficiency is one of the most constructive ways to address the challenges of high energy prices, energy security and independence, air pollution, and global climate change.

This month Zayed Foundation will lend its support to another global environmental cause - Earth Hour - and on this occasion, I urge you all to shine a light on climate action by switching off your lights for an hour on March 19 at 8.30pm.

Executive EditorProf. Mohammed Bin Fahad

Managing EditorDr. Meshgan Al Awar

AdvisorDr. Eisa Abdellatif

EditorSangeetha Swaroop

[email protected]

Design DirectorNash - Intoto

[email protected]

[email protected]

Published by

From the Managing Editor

Dr. Meshgan Al Awar Secretary General Zayed International Prize forthe Environment

.P.O. Box 28399, Dubai, UAETel: +971 4 3326666Fax: +971 4 3326777

Website: www.zayedprize.org.aeemail: [email protected]


6President Khalifa calls for continued efforts to preserve the environment and natural resources

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has called

for continuing the efforts of developing a legislative environment that will ensure the conservation of natural resources and regulate the consumption of water and energy.

In a speech on the occasion of the 19th edition of National Environment Day, which is marked on February 4th, President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa also called for launching educational programmes to raise awareness of the importance

of the sustainability of natural resources and the use of clean renewable energy for the country’s development process and its objectives. The efforts are to “successfully implement the initiative that we launched in 2012 which aims to make our country a leader in the green economy,” he said.

His Highness also said on the occasion, which is being held under the slogan, ‘The Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability’, “Our country is now blessed with greenery and continues to apply its strategies

on conserving the environment and its natural resources, implementing its programmes for water and energy consumption, and increasing its natural reserves to achieve Vision 2021 for a sustainable environment and well-being, inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan - an environmental advocate, leader of greenery and founder of sustainable environment - who encouraged agriculture so that it became a way of life in the UAE.”

Sheikh Khalifa pointed out, “Since the founding of our nation we

UAE National Environment Day was celebrated on 4th February under the theme, ‘The Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability’.

UAE Environment Day


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successfully planted tens of millions of trees, built dams, and reclaimed vast tracts of land to revitalise agriculture.”

He continued, “We have established 21 onshore and offshore natural reserves, which make up 7% of the UAE land mass, in an effort to preserve wildlife and marine species, reduce pollution, have clean air, and a healthy sustainable environment for future generations to enjoy.”

His Highness the President also stressed that “Environmental effort is a collective responsibility

which requires the participation of everyone who lives in a civilised society,” adding that each individual is “An ambassador for the environment and should be keen on ensuring its cleanliness, its sustainability, and work on reducing emissions of polluting gases.”

‘UAE is a leading state regionally in the field of green development’ H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, EAD, has stressed that the

United Arab Emirates is aware of its responsibility in protecting nature and limiting the impact of economic growth and urbanisation on the natural habitats and ecosystems, as a leading state regionally in the field of green development.

Sheikh Hamdan expressed his pride in the care and support given by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and

The UAE National Environment Day is an important milestone in local environmental efforts.


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Honorary President of EAD, to environmental efforts in general and the activities and programmes of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi in particular, which, he said, have had the greatest impact in promoting environmental protection and natural resources conservation efforts.

In his speech on the occasion of National Environment Day, which is marked on 4th February every year, and being held under the slogan, “Green Economy: Innovation : Sustainability”, Sheikh Hamdan said that the Abu Dhabi government is committed to further strengthening the UAE green economy model and to boost the country’s stature as a role model in the field of sustainable development.

The National Environment Day, which began 19 years ago has bolstered ongoing efforts to protect the environment, which is an essential component of UAE Vision 2021, UAE National Agenda, and environmental strategies of federal and local government authorities.

2016 marks the conclusion of the three-year campaign cycle designed for the occasion under the slogan ‘The Green Economy: Innovation & Sustainability.’ The first year of the campaign focused on the aspects of green economy, the first element of the program’s logo.It involved defining and outlining social and environmental advantages as we well as setting terms for green development according to the UAE strategy.

During its second year, the focus was on innovation, the second element of the logo, to coincide with the National Year of Innovation and the National Strategy for Innovation initiatives.

Programs were developed to emphasize innovation and its important role it plays in the country’s efforts to shift green economy from a traditional economic framework. This is an essential component of UAE Vision 2021, which aims to develop a national economy driven by knowledge and innovation.

This year, the focus was on sustainability, the third element of the logo, as the main component of green economy.


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The UAE Water Aid Foundation, UAE Suqia, has launched a competition

to design the logo for the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award, which was launched by Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

An amount of Dhs 10,000 is allocated for a winning design. Designs should focus on Research and Development, and innovation in water scarcity or solar sustainable solutions to combat global water scarcity. The foundation will receive designs via email until 10 March 2016.

The competition is one of the

efforts to fulfil the country’s vision to build a knowledge-based economy, with a focus on technology, research, development, and innovation. The UAE Water Aid Foundation encourages leading organisations, research centres, and innovators from around the world, to compete to find sustainable and innovative solutions to water shortages by using solar energy.

The UAE Water Aid Foundation will provide the award, which falls under the umbrella of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, one of the largest development and community foundations in the region. It consolidates the work of 28 organisations and targets over 130 million people over the

coming years. The primary goals of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives include four main sectors: Fighting Poverty, Dissemination of Knowledge, Community Empowerment, and Innovation for the Future.

“The newly launched competition emphasises Sheikh Mohammed’s commitment to providing an environment that is capable of supporting creativity and innovation. In addition, the competition encourages university students to innovate, design and participate in improving sustainable development,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the UAE Water Aid Foundation.

UAE Suqia launches design competition for Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award logo


10Industry leaders and prominent thinkers gather to tackle energy efficiency issues at UAE summit

The Zayed International Foundation for the Environment was one of

the key partners of the inaugural Emirates Energy Efficiency Summit that was held from 3rd to 4th February 2016 at the American University in Dubai.

Hosted by founding partners The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and GE, the invitation-only summit was designed to elevate awareness and support for energy saving and climate change projects and initiatives and sought to encourage global discussion and knowledge sharing

on these key issues.

Featuring an informative programme of roundtable discussions and expert presentations, the event brought together prominent keynote speakers and high-level B2B stakeholders, including business professionals, government legislators and the media as they unveiled valuable insights into the key energy challenges the world faces in 2016.

Combining business and social interests with government action, the overall objective of the EEES,

which is part of the Partners for Progress on Energy Efficiency initiative, was to foster enhanced communication, while educating participants about key energy efficiency issues and trends, as well as provoking a two-way dialogue that will ultimately help drive real action.

Held at the American University in Dubai (AUD), delegates to the event were welcomed on 3rd February by partners Ms. Dalya Al Muthanna, President & CEO of GE Gulf; HE Mr. Bernard Fautrier, Vice-President & CEO of The Prince Albert II of Monaco

Zayed International Foundation for the Environment was a key partner of the inaugural Emirates Energy Efficiency Summit that was held from 3rd to 4th February 2016 in Dubai.

Cover Story


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Foundation; Dr. Lance E. de Masi, President of AUD and Dr. Meshgan Al Awar, Secretary General, Zayed International Prize for the Environment.

In his welcome address, Dr. Lance E. de Masi, President of AUD commented: “AUD’s mission is to advance the welfare of society by imparting, cultivating and disseminating knowledge. Our hosting and contributing to the organization of the Emirates Energy Efficiency Summit is a way to further this mission. Just as teaching and learning by students and research by faculty result in

tangible progress, it is my hope that this conference will serve to address key issues – e.g. policy, regulation and measurement within the sphere of energy efficiency management in the UAE.”

Addressing the delegates, Dr. Meshgan Al Awar gave an overview of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment highlighting both its environmental achievements and how the Foundation endeavors to promote sustainable development through various environmental initiatives and through

propagating environmental awareness, addressing sustainability issues, conducting international and regional conferences, workshops and seminars, raising consciousness among the public, professionals, trade and the fraternity; in addition to publications and community activities.

The Foundation seeks to achieve its objectives via prestigious awards, dialogues, publications and direct community activities, she added. “All this is done in collaboration and close coordination with international

Cutting straight to the heart of the Middle East’s energy performance challenges, the inaugural EEES saw prominent thinkers take on the biggest problems in the field.


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and local partners and stakeholders such as the Ministry of Environment & Water, UNEP, UNIDO and UNDP, amongst others.”

Dr. Meshgan Al Awar also pointed out that “the Zayed Foundation has signed an agreement with UNEP in January this year to prepare and publish a new book on “Green Economy” which we hope will become the international manual for applying the concept of green development.”

“It gives me great pleasure to address this grand summit which seeks to combine business and social interests with government action in order to raise community awareness

and drive energy savings and climate change programs across the United Arab Emirates which is celebrating its National Environment Day today under the slogan: ‘Green Economy: Sustainability and innovation’,” she said.

The post-lunch session of the event saw Mr. Saeed Al Abbar, Chairman of the Emirates Green Building Council speak on the future of energy efficient buildings as he outlined the global best practices and the future trends in green buildings worldwide. “With buildings here consuming 80 per cent of the UAE’s energy, the building sector has a key role to play when it comes to energy efficiency,” he pointed out as he elaborated on

the far reaching benefits that buildings have when it comes to reducing carbon emissions and energy costs.

Engineering students of the American University in Dubai also gave a presentation on how to improve solar panel efficiency through automated dust removal while discussing the merits of automating fault detection, isolation and recovery in electric power distribution systems. They also initiated talks on the need to deliver solutions to minimizing transmission line losses in conventional and smart grid systems.

The formal inauguration of the Emirates Energy Efficiency Summit 2016 was held on 4th


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The energy industry’s most influential thinkers tackled the biggest issues facing the region at the recently concluded inaugural Emirates Energy Efficiency

Summit in Dubai, UAE.

February by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco who shared his own insights into the conversation at the thought-provoking platform. His Serene Highness commented: “As a follow up to the Euro Mediterranean conferences arranged in Monaco over the previous five years, the Emirates Energy Efficiency Summit provides a global approach to energy issues, due both to the questions raised and the eminent figures who provide answers. How can we mobilize individuals, companies and states for fundamental change, which is not cost neutral and whose results are sometimes distant? This question is, I believe, at the heart of any environmental commitment.”

He added that initiatives such as the SUSI Energy Efficiency Fund which financed the retrofit of five public buildings in Monaco in 2013 are a solution for individual energy efficiency projects that are too small and complex for institutional investors. Energy efficiency is an objective that needs to be worked on worldwide as it is genuine source of shared hope for the planet, he noted.

Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Bin Fahad, Chairman of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, also addressed the gathering pointing out that the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment was established in 1999 by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice

President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, “in order to encourage environmental excellence and promote sustainable development.”

Highlighting the need to turn to alternative energy forms to power our future, he pointed out that while fossil fuels have been integral in the development of most industrial nations, developing nations could save immensely by switching to renewable options. “The UAE has become the epicentre of renewable energy in the GCC and the Middle East thanks to the foresight of our wise leadership. The Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 launched by UAE Vice President and Prime Minister



and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to produce 75% of Dubai’s energy from clean sources by 2050. Such ambitious clean energy targets are necessary if we want to seriously address the major energy and sustainability challenges of today.”

Amongst the noteworthy speakers who took to the stage on the second day of the Emirates Energy Efficiency Summit were HE Ahmad Buti Al Muhairbi, Secretary General, Supreme Council of Energy; Dr. Meshgan Al Awar, Secretary General, Zayed International Prize for the Environment, Dubai and Abdulla Alshahyari, Acting Director of the Conservation

and Efficiency Department at the UAE Ministry of Energy, who shared case studies and examples of best practices, as well as showcasing existing and future initiatives.

HE Ahmad Buti Al Muhairbi described Dubai as a role model of transformation of energy supply and demand strategy towards building a sustainable future while Dr. Meshgan Al Awar gave a presentation focusing on “The What, Why, and How of Energy Efficiency”, linking the international approach and strategy of energy efficiency initiatives with the national efforts of the UAE. In her presentation, she also gave a brief of the two awards given out by the Zayed Foundation

to encourage and promote environmental excellence.

She also elaborated on the initiative taken by the Zayed Foundation to launch a new category of its international award. Titled ‘The Young Scientists Award for Environmental Sustainability’, this new category seeks to recognize and promote pioneering contributions of talented young scientists worldwide for their research in Environmental Sciences and Green Technology and will be awarded for the first time at the 7th cycle of Zayed Prize, she said.

Dr. Meshgan also highlighted how the Zayed Foundation embraced


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“The UAE has become the epicentre of renewable energy in the GCC and the Middle East thanks to the foresight of our wise leadership.”

- - Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Bin Fahad

the spirit of innovation when it adopted smart technology to promote its environmental activities and initiatives to the public on the occasion of World Environment Day last year.

Talking on the key drivers for behavioural change, Frank Wouters of the EU-GCC Clean Energy Network in Abu Dhabi opined that according to neoclassical economics theory, human behaviour should naturally be inclined towards conserving energy although the reality was far from it. Using the example of the “Passive House”, he explained how it is possible for technology to interact with human behaviour to achieve best results.

Mr. Abdulla Alshahyari outlined

for the audience an overview of the existing and future initiatives of the Ministry of Energy in the field of improving and promoting energy efficiency in the UAE.

Agostino Renna, President & CEO of GE Lighting EMEA concluded the Summit by expressing hope that sharing

knowledge and insights will lead the way towards creating tangible and lasting change. “Our hope is that by creating a safe space for motivated organisations and individuals to come together and debate the real issues and problems, we can help find true solutions to the energy challenges we face today.”


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Zayed Foundationsigns newagreement withUNEP

The Zayed InternationalFoundation for theEnvironment signed an

agreement on 29th January2016 with the United NationsEnvironment Programme (UNEP)to produce an internationaltextbook on inclusive greeneconomy.

UNEP Executive Director AchimSteiner and the Chairman of theHigher Committee of the ZayedInternational Foundation for theEnvironment, Dr. MohammedAhmed bin Fahad, signed theagreement, set to run untilFebruary 2017, at UNEP’s

Headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya.

The Zayed Foundation, whichmanages the most valuableinternational environmentalaward, worth US$ 1 million, willcontribute US$ 100,000 towardsthe creation of a textbook that will give a holistic overview of green economy and its role in promoting sustainable development.

The signing of the agreementcoincides with the UAE NationalEnvironment Day, celebratedon 4th February every year andwhich is an important milestonein local environmental efforts.

Zayed International Foundation for the Environment to contribute US$ 100,000for the development of a novel textbook on green economy.

Cover Story

“The agreement withUNEP further strengthensthe Zayed InternationalFoundation for theEnvironment’s role inpromoting a culture ofenvironmental awarenessand supports the 2016UAE National EnvironmentDay theme of ‘The GreenEconomy: Innovation andSustainability.’


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The partnership agreementbetween the Zayed InternationalFoundation for the Environmentand UNEP also supports the theme of the 19th National Environment Day which is being celebrated under the slogan ‘Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability’ for the third year in a row.

The Zayed Foundation’s rolein promoting a culture ofenvironmental awareness hasbeen further strengthened withthis new initiative and is in linewith the UAE’s national strategyto educate, raise environmentalawareness and promote positive

environmental behavior amongthe public as it strives to meetthe environmental objectives andtargets of UAE Vision 2021 andthe Green Development Strategy.

At the signing of the partnershipagreement, UNEP ExecutiveDirector Achim Steiner said:“Economic development andenvironmental preservation gohand-in-hand, and are at the coreof the concept of an inclusivegreen economy.

This textbook will allow thispartnership to consolidateand build on the knowledge

surrounding green economypractices, by disseminating theory, frameworks and best practices to those who can in turn expand on current understanding. I appreciate the substantial support of The Zayed Foundation, whose contributions continue to help accelerate the transition toward an inclusive green economy.”

In a statement, Dr. MohammedAhmed bin Fahad, said: “The UAE is a front-runner at the international level in championing the push for a global green economy.

The signing of this agreement with

Covering macroeconomic theory andspecific sectoral policies, the textbook will provide researchers with a firstof-its-kind comprehensive analytical framework for studying green economy.


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UNEP will help to furtherfacilitate the process in achieving the sustainable development goals of nations committed to the green growth pathway.”

“The agreement with UNEPfurther strengthens the ZayedInternational Foundation for theEnvironment’s role in promotinga culture of environmentalawareness and supports the 2016 UAE National Environment Day theme of ‘The Green Economy: Innovation and Sustainability.’

Through this initiative, the ZayedInternational Foundation forthe Environment, a torch bearerof sustainable development,seeks to strengthen the nation’sposition on the global innovationmap.”

Covering macroeconomic theoryand specific sectoral policies, thetextbook will provide researchers around the world with a first-of its-kind comprehensive analytical framework for studying green economy. Enriched with regionalperspectives, it will also serve asa tool for policymakers, allowingthem to design enabling policiesfor the transition to greeneconomy.

Commenting on the occasion,Dr. Meshgan Al Awar, SecretaryGeneral of the Zayed International Foundation for theEnvironment, noted: “The ZayedInternational Foundation for theEnvironment is proud to introduce this new initiative in the Year ofReading in the UAE as declaredby President His Highness Sheikh

“The UAE is a front-runner at the international level inchampioning the push for a global green economy. The signing of this agreement with UNEP will help to further facilitate the process in achieving the sustainable development goals of nations committed to the green growth pathway.”


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Through the new agreement signed with UNEP, the Zayed InternationalFoundation for the Environment, a torch bearer of sustainable development,

seeks to strengthen the nation’s position on the global innovation map.

Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Reading is the foundation of aknowledge-based economy, andthe knowledge imbibed fromthe text book will, we hope,inspire a generation who willresponsible serve the society andlead the nation to a new stage ofdevelopment.”

Building on a Memorandum ofUnderstanding signed in July2013, the current agreementseeks to deepen the partnershipbetween the two organizationsto promote sustainabledevelopment goals.

Founded in 1999 by His HighnessSheikh Mohammed bin RashidAl Maktoum, Vice President andPrime Minister of the UAE

and Ruler of Dubai, the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment recognizes and promotes major pioneeringcontributions in the field ofenvironment and sustainabledevelopment.

Every two years, the Foundationawards its prestigiousenvironmental prize worth US$1 million to key decision-makersfor their special contributions toenvironmental preservation andsustainable development.

It also promotes sustainabledevelopment through propagating environmental awareness, addressing sustainability issues and conducting international andregional conferences, workshops,

seminars and communityactivities. Previous winners of the Zayed Award include HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, former President Lee Myung-bak of the Republic of Korea, former US President Jimmy Carter, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and former Prime Minister of Norway Dr. Gro Harlem Brundtland.

Building on a Memorandumof Understanding signedin July 2013, the currentagreement seeks to deepenthe partnership between theZayed International Foundation for the Environment and UNEP to promote sustainabledevelopment goals.


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From skylines to timelines, Earth Hour shines a light on climate action

Following a landmark year for climate, Emirates Wildlife Society – WWF is calling on

people in the UAE to take climate action by switching off their lights for one hour and switching on their social power by donating their social feeds to Earth Hour. Earth Hour 2016 will be celebrated on Saturday, 19 March between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m.

Last year was the hottest year on record. It was also the year countries came together to work against climate change at the historic summit in Paris. With the world at a climate crossroads,

Earth Hour 2016 is our time to shine a light on climate action and build the foundation for a better future for our planet and future generations.

“Climate action today will decide what tomorrow looks like for years to come. Earth Hour empowers each individual to be a part of making climate change history, be it through a social event, interactive campaigns and even social networks,” said Siddarth Das, Executive Director, Earth Hour Global.

In addition, as the UAE’s most

iconic landmarks prepare to switch off their lights for Earth Hour, supporters are also invited to take a stand for climate action on their own personal landmarks – their social media accounts. By taking Earth Hour to the digital space, every individual has an opportunity to tell their story on how climate change affects people of all ages, background and cultures and why it is important to act now.

This year’s social media campaign “shine a light on climate action” empowers individuals and companies to exponentially

Earth Hour 2016 will be celebrated on Saturday, 19 March between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m.

Earth Hour


March 2016 | 21

spread the message of taking climate action by using the hashtags #EarthHourUAE and #ChangeClimateChange on their social networks.

By signing up to the campaign on earthhour.org/climateaction, users allow Earth Hour to send 5 automated posts between 16 and 19 March 2016 to their Facebook wall. In addition, they will have access to a unique Earth Hour profile picture.

In 2015, all 7 Emirates participated in switching off their key landmarks and the Earth

Hour campaign reached around 2.3 million people on social media platforms across the UAE. Hashtags in relation to Earth Hour reached a total of 31.7 views across the emirates.

How to join Earth Hour 2016:• Switch off all non-essential lights on March 19 at 8:30-9:30PM• Sign up to donate your social feed on earthhour.org/climateaction• Register your event on Earth Hour event tracker and download Earth Hour UAE artwork on

earthhour.uae.panda.org

Since 2007, Earth Hour has mobilized businesses, organizations, governments and hundreds of millions of individuals in over 7,000 cities and more than 170 countries and territories to act for a sustainable future.

The Earth Hour movement celebrates the 10th edition of its signature lights out event this year.


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Thousands join Dubai Municipality Car Free Day initiative

Thousands of government and private employees in Dubai used alternative or public

modes of transport to reach their place of work on 21st February to observe the 7th Car Free Day by the Dubai Municipality.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, this green initiative, organized by Dubai Municipality, saw the participation of more than 1000 organizations from various government, semi-government

and private sectors, especially the education, development and retail sectors, hotels, banks and people with special needs.

This year, the initiative held under the slogan “Not a day... Every day,” exceeded its size and nature than the previous years, said Eng. Hussain Nasser Lootah, Director General of Dubai Municipality, who expressed great satisfaction for this outstanding achievement of the emirate, which emphasizes its global leadership in the environmental field.

Lootah said that the

implementation of this initiative and its improvement year after year is a living proof of the commitment of the Emirate of Dubai towards the relevant international environmental agreements, including the United Nations Convention on Climate Change (Kyoto Protocol), which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“Car Free Day also goes in harmony with the UAE government’s drive to give priority to the climate change protocol, which was embodied through the creation of the Ministry of

The theme of this year’s Car Free Day is “Not A Day.Every Day” and aims to persuade residents to go car free on more days.

Initiative


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Climate Change and Environment. The Car Free Day initiative is based primarily on the non-use of personal vehicles for transport and to reach work places and to replace them by environmentally friendly means of transport in order to contribute to the reduction of vehicle emissions, especially carbon dioxide and thereby reduce the carbon footprint of the emirate,” he said.

Lootah said that the efforts by all the strategic partners for the Municipality such as the other government departments, sponsors and private institutions

in participating in the initiative and the diversity of the nature of these participations clearly refers to the growing sense of community responsibility towards environmental issues at the emirate level by all segments of the society.

Lootah pointed out that the fundamental factors that have contributed to the apparent success of the initiative this year comes from the government support, especially the personal care of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince

of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.

Alya Al Harmoudi, Director of Environment Department at Dubai Municipality and Chairperson of the Supreme Committee for the Car Free Day initiative said that the success of the initiative this year was achieved by creating a clear awareness about the concept as well as the logo of the initiative, “ Not a day... Every day” to make it a part of the culture of daily life of the community.

She said that the Environment Department at Dubai Municipality

A yoga session, painting exhibition and exhibition of electric and hybrid cars and smart bikes were held as part of the grand launch of the event near the Union Metro Station.


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decided to implement this initiative in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai that “UAE and its people deserve a lot from us, first and foremost to give them a healthy environment and clean air and we have to race against time to create more sustainable solutions.”

During the last year’s Car Free Day nearly 30,000 people avoided using personal vehicles to reach work and used environmentally friendly transportation instead, compared with non-use of a personal vehicles only by 1,000 people during the first year

of the initiative in 2010. It is expected that the number of personal vehicles that have been abandoned for use to gain access to the workplace and mobility in the city on the day of implementation of the initiative in 2016 is higher than the previous years.

A special exhibition was also organized as part of the Car Free Day initiative this year near the Union Metro Station, which

became the largest exhibition of environment friendly vehicles, which rely on alternative fuel sources, whether solar or electric power or bio-fuels. There was a special section showcasing the latest practices, techniques and accomplishments relating to air quality, while the third section of the exhibition focused on demonstrating technologies, initiatives and achievements related to maintaining natural resources.


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Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central have become the first

airports in the GCC states to achieve Level 2 accreditation from the Airports Council International’s Airport Carbon Accreditation Programme.

With Level 2 achieved, DXB and DWC are now in the list of 14 Level 2 accredited airports, representing more than 10 percent of the air passenger traffic in the Asia Pacific Region. The completion of the second stage of ACI’s four-stage programme is in line with Dubai Airports’ commitment to sustainable growth and support for the aviation industry’s global initiatives for a carbon-neutral future for the world’s airports.

Describing the achievement as an important step in the company’s journey and the ultimate goal of attaining carbon-neutral growth, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said, “We take our environmental responsibility seriously and, through our environmental management plan, continue to implement efficiencies and pursue innovative ideas to limit our environmental impact while fully supporting the UAE Vision 2021.”

Patti Chau, ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Director said, “The accreditation demonstrates Dubai Airports’ strong commitment towards developing a sustainable future for its airports. We applaud Dubai Airports for their achievement and look forward to

seeing the two airports reaching carbon neutrality in the near future.”

Dubai Airports contributes to the development of programmes and policies to promote sustainability across the UAE by participating in key environmental committees and working closely with stakeholders as well as federal and local government bodies.

The Airport Carbon Accreditation Programme is the only independently administered, institutionally endorsed carbon management certification standard for airports. It certifies airports at four different levels of accreditation including mapping, reduction, optimisation and neutrality.

Dubai airports demonstrate ‘green’ credentials


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UAE Strives for Sustainable Development

Under the leadership of the UAE Ministry of International Cooperation

and Development, in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, Dubai Carbon, launched the State of Sustainability Report - UAE 2016 at the World Government Summit, which seeks to identify key factors to fulfill sustainable development in the United Arab Emirates.

The State of Sustainability: UAE 2016 report is the first report in series of annual publications,

which will serve as a tool for analysis and communication with stakeholders and partners to support and enhance future reports and reporting requirements.

The report is expected to become a platform for highlighting progress, solutions and success stories in the fields of economic, social and environmental sustainable development on a national and international setting.

Furthermore, the publication also highlights the progress made by the public and private sectors in

the state in terms of achieving the 17 goals of sustainable development that were adopted by the United Nations during World Summit on Sustainable Development.

HH Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs said, “This report reflects the ongoing efforts of the government towards sustainable development in achieving a greener economy.

“The UAE Government remains committed and will continue to support the larger objective as

UAE Ministry of International Cooperation and Development in collaboration with DCCE launches the State of Sustainability: UAE 2016 Report.

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March 2016 | 27

outlined by the United Nations (UN) to protect and create an environment for sustainable development”.

HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Cooperation and Development stated: “The Ministry of Development and International Cooperation is pleased to be involved in the launch of the State of Sustainability: UAE 2016.

“The UAE is fully committed to fulfilling the 2030 agenda and we are rapidly progressing towards attaining the Sustainable

Development goals set by the agenda. Issues such as access to clean energy, food, education, healthcare, and sustainable economic growth remain the focus of the leadership of the nation. ”

HE Reem Ebrahim Al-Hashimy, Minister of State, Chairwoman of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and Director General of Dubai Expo 2020 Bureau said, “The State of Sustainability: UAE 2016 report presents an opportunity to explore and develop impactful policies to accelerate progress in fulfilling the 2030 Agenda. The

Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority is committed to provide the all the necessary advisory to ensure the fulfillment of the country’s national and global priorities.”

Waleed Salman, Chairman – Dubai Carbon said “The State of Sustainability: UAE 2016 Report is an important milestone in accomplishing Sustainable Development as it provides an depth analysis of eco-efficient measures being implemented in the country. Our aim will now be to work towards fulfilling these goals in the next 15 years.”

The State of Sustainability Report - UAE 2016 seeks to identify key factors to fulfill sustainable development in the United Arab Emirates.


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Dubai to convert half of taxi fleet to hybrid by 2021

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive

Directors of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a plan to convert 50% of Dubai taxicabs to hybrid vehicles by 2021.

The move is part of a master plan to reduce carbon emissions of the taxi sector by 2% to fulfil the requirements of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and the Green Economy drive. The step was prompted by the deregulation of fuel prices, and the low lifecycle cost of hybrid

vehicles compared with normal vehicles.

The RTA chairman and director general, Mattar Al Tayer, said in a statement that the initiative would see 4,750 hybrid taxis taking to the streets by 2021, up from 147 last year. RTA is the first entity in the region to take the initiative of experimenting the operation of hybrid vehicles as part of the Taxi fleet in 2008.

“Results of the trial operation of hybrid taxis conducted by Dubai Taxi Corporation since 2008 indicated that they offer

an environmental solution for reducing carbon emissions by 34%, slashing fuel consumption by 33%, besides cutting maintenance costs due to the low mechanical faults, and curbing noise levels.

“For instance the normal vehicle requires about 12.5 liters to travel 100 km, whereas the hybrid vehicles needs about 8.25 liters to travel the same distance. The amount of carbon emission generated by the normal vehicle is estimated as 182 kg per day, whereas the hybrid vehicle generates about 121 kg of carbon

RTA unveils plans to convert 50% of Dubai Taxi fleet to hybrid cabs by 2021 as part of a master plan to reduce carbon emissions of the taxi sector.

Hybrids


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emissions per day only. Studies showed that replacing all taxicabs in Dubai by hybrid cabs would reduce carbon emissions by 230 thousand tons per annum, which translates into saving about AED170 million,” added Al Tayer.

“RTA attaches paramount attention to environmental conservation and optimizing power consumption. Amongst the top of its project comes the Dubai Metro, which had been manufactured using state-of-the-art technologies to make it environment-friendly. For instance, RTA started using

regenerative braking power of the Dubai Metro to feed the metro line, replaced the old public bus fleet by modern buses compatible with Euro 4-5 specifications. These buses are fitted with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) technology. It has also started the trial run of the Electric Bus that is operated by electric power only through recharging batteries.

“As for marine transit modes, in 2013, RTA deployed seven electric-powered abras fitted with electric motors instead of the

traditional diesel motors, and the project was broadened to include 17 abras. Additionally, this year RTA has started the trial run of a solar-powered abra.

“As for lighting, RTA started upgrading the efficiency of street lights by introducing power-saving lights using LED lighting technology in a bid to reduce electric power consumption. The project resulted in reducing carbon footprint by more than 3000 tons per annum,“ explained RTA’s Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors.

The move is part of a strategy to reduce carbon emissions from the taxi sector by 2 percent in five years’ time.


30International workshop for Arabia’s biodiversity tackles issue of endangered species

Under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council

Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the 17th Annual International Conservation Workshop for Arabia’s Biodiversity, organised by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, EPAA, opened on 8th February 2016 at the Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife in Sharjah and continued until February 11th.

The Emirate of Sharjah is the first to bring together experts from around the world to assess the status of endangered

species in the region according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, IUCN, Red List.

The four-day workshop, held in collaboration with the IUCN, aims to expand its cooperation with regional and international bodies and provide information and analyses on the status, trends and threats to species in order to inform and catalyse action for biodiversity conservation.

On day 1 of the workshop, Dr. Craig Hilton-Taylor, Head of the IUCN Red List Unit in Cambridge, UK,

introduced the regional application of the IUCN red list categories and criteria; he stressed the importance of producing a Regional Red List assessment of all the terrestrial mammal species in the Arabian Peninsula, as well as a status review of all its marine mammals, the latter being a brand new topic to the annual event.

Commenting on the workshop, Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the EPAA in Sharjah, said, “This year’s workshop is particularly special as it discusses the conservation of both land and marine mammals in the region, and the need for

The four-day workshop aims to support international efforts and provide an opportunity for discussion and exchanging of ideas about the ways of conservation of natural life and biodiversity.

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a Regional Red List in line with the IUCN’s global Red List of Threatened Species.

This event falls in line with the EPAA’s continuous commitment to the environment and to raising awareness of biodiversity conservation in the UAE and the region as a whole.”

Al Suwaidi added: “Sharjah has witnessed, over the years, outstanding environmental activity aimed to restore natural balance to the ecological system. This has been manifested in the set of decisions issued by the emirate,

which proves its leading roles in the domains of conservation of the environment, natural balance, and preservation of the biodiversity system.”

In its current edition, the International Workshop addressed two parallel themes: the taxonomic theme and the veterinary theme.

The former is the theme of classification, which includes a review of the status of conservation of land and sea mammals in the region with the aim of assessment of the Regional Red List of all land mammals.

The participants in the workshop carried out, within this framework, an overall review of the status of sea mammals in the region. Moreover, the role of protected areas in the conservation of biodiversity was also reviewed.

The second theme addressed the veterinary aspect by highlighting the control of diseases in the region and the ways of coping with them in light of the challenge posed by tuberculosis. In this context, experts will also address the nature of the difficulties and repercussions of the problem of the collective capture of animals.

In its current edition, the International Workshop addressed two parallel themes: the taxonomic theme and the veterinary theme.


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Focus on smart cities and green infrastructure at Ajman conference

Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of

the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman, the Municipality and Planning Department of Ajman is organising the 4th Ajman International Environment Conference (AIEC 2016) on “Smart Cities and Green Innovation” from March 2nd to 3rd at the Sheikh Zayed Center for Conferences and Exhibitions at the Ajman University of Science and Technology (AUST) in Ajman .

The annual conference stresses the importance of sustainability

and it plans to actively promote sustainable ways of thinking, working and living within different communities around the world, and will focus on building and advancing smart cities and green infrastructure.

At a press conference, Khalid Mueen Al Hosani, Head of the Organising Committee of AIEC 2016 has announced details of the conference and all the panel sessions and keynote addresses that will be held. According to Al Hosani, who is also the Executive Director of the Public Health and Environment Sector, Municipality

and Planning Department of Ajman, the conference has helped increase the economic activities in the emirate of Ajman, after the reduction of the environmental pollution and waste, which undermine the quality of life and wellbeing in modern cities.

“The theme of the 4th edition of the conference demonstrates our eagerness to accelerate the adoption of effective, cutting-edge and sustainable methods that ensure a change is made in the habits and practices to establish smart cities where environment and natural resources are

The 4th Ajman International Environment Conference (AIEC 2016) will be held from March 2nd to 3rd under the theme “Smart Cities and Green Innovation”.


Cover StoryConference


March 2016 | 33

conserved for a brighter tomorrow for our future generation.”

The conference will cover topics such as planned legislation and policy statements, smart growth and green business, the carbon footprint, renewable energy on contaminated land, the smart water and green space network, and ecologically significant lands and suitable development areas.Al Hosani said that the opening ceremony will be attended by H.H. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman and other dignitaries and senior officials

including H.H. Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Chairman of the Conference.

Al Hosani stressed that the Ajman International Environment Conference aims to effectively contribute to supporting and achieving the objectives of the Ajman Vision 2021, launched by H.H. Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Ajman Executive Council. The Ajman Vision 2021 aims to turn the emirate into an investment destination and to

achieve sustainable development, so as to enhance the well-being and happiness of its citizens and residents. The emirate seeks to attract investments in green economy and sustainable development sectors, as well as to offer facilities and incentives to investors in the industries.

“The theme of the fourth edition of the Ajman International Environment Conference reflects nationwide efforts – across the UAE – to build a sustainable economy that can cope with population growth and urban expansion,” added Hosani.


The annual conference provides an essential platform for topics on global sustainability and green living.


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Proposals invited for Dubai Green Free Zone strategy, deployment

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has issued a Request for Proposals

(RFP) for consultants to develop the strategy and deployment plan for a Green Free Zone in Dubai, which was announced as part of Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 last November by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The strategy consists of five main pillars: Infrastructure, legislation, funding, building capacities and skills, and an environmentally-

friendly energy mix. The infrastructure pillar includes the establishment of a new free zone under the name ‘Dubai Green Zone’ dedicated to attracting mature and emerging companies in clean energy.

The ‘Dubai Green Zone’ will become a global hub to attract R&D and innovative clean energy companies. It will provide a boost to the long-term vision of the Dubai Declaration’s strategic commitment to develop Dubai into the Capital of the Green Economy.

“The vision of His Highness

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, guides all our work and operations. Launching the Dubai Green Zone by His Highness is an important step to encourage companies, both established and start-ups, to set up in Dubai and to provide them with an environment to develop and market their new technologies in sustainability.

“By providing a comprehensive solution spanning state-of-the-art infrastructure through Green Zone, Dubai aims to become the city with the smallest carbon footprint

The ‘Dubai Green Zone’ will become a global hub to attract R&D and innovative clean energy companies.

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in the world by 2050,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.

“The Dubai Green Zone will encourage green technology companies and have sustainable buildings with unique and best-in-class concepts of space and mobility planning.

“In our pursuit to build a smart city, at DEWA, we look forward to encouraging and promoting the best in energy, water and environment management to create an innovative and sustainable workplace,” he added.

“As part of our commitment towards achieving the Smart City initiative, we strive to provide the best energy management, and water facilities to create an innovative, and sustainable work environment. We are also committed to our vision of providing an innovative and sustainable future, for generations to come.

The Dubai Green Zone will encourage green technology companies and have sustainable buildings with unique and best-in-class concepts of space and mobility planning,” he concluded.

The scope of the RFP released by DEWA incudes providing consultancy services to develop the strategy, feasibility and execution plan for an economic zone supportive of companies pushing the boundaries of sustainable solutions. Proposals are expected by 3rd March 2016 at the latest.

The ‘Dubai Green Zone’ will provide a boost to the long-term vision of the Dubai Declaration’s strategic commitment to develop Dubai into the capital of the Green Economy.


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‘Sustainability is more than a CSR campaign’

Recently, climate researchers at NASA revealed that global temperatures increase by

1°C in 2015, making it the hottest year ever recorded on Earth. At the recently concluded COP21 world leaders of 195 independent states agreed to keep the Earth’s temperature rise to below 2°C , effectively the 1°C increase in 2015 marks a halfway point.

Unless Earth is ready for catastrophe, there is no option than to work towards a sustainable future. This means asking questions about the way work is conducted, the effects of

processes and products on the environment, and then thinking of ways these can be improved. Fundamental to these processes is change and our readiness to accept and manage change- this is a monumental challenge for organizations.

How does a business organization operate within the current environmental context? In fact, how does a business organization become a champion of sustainability?

The first point that needs to be addressed is: why does the

organization want to practice sustainability? Answers to this question will determine whether sustainability programs are to be company-wide procedural changes or short-term projects, usually classified as CSR projects. The first option obviously has the biggest impact on the organization and its stake and shareholders, while the second option is too short to be effective.

At Karcher, sustainability is a company-wide procedural change. The sustainability programs have wide-reach touching nearly every segment of the company

Getting serious about sustainable products is the best practice companies can employ for their stakeholders, says Richard Nouira, MD of Karcher FZE, Dubai.

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where operational and strategic decisions are based on top of the sustainability foundation. This approach has worked very well for Karcher in the past and continues to lead us in the correct direction.

How sustainability is defined is important as it can limit its scale and scope in the organization. For Karcher, sustainability is a firmly anchored corporate goal, practiced for decades, and includes sound finances and appropriate earnings achieved in fair dealings with others, along with the responsible use of resources. This definition we use

spans across different business divisions and encapsulates our organizational culture.

Sustainability can be a strategic tool. Understanding global, regional, and operational local trends helps us understand the customer better. Sustainable eco-friendly products are more than a trend amongst a fringe target population, the awareness built around eco-friendly and sustainable practices has enabled customers to make more informed choices about the products they use and ultimately the brands they trust. Ignoring this can cause

irreparable damage to your brand as well as a loss of customers.

Organizations can no longer treat sustainability as a CSR project, it should be at the core of all operations ranging from customer relations and marketing, to operational procedures, to product innovation, and down to social responsibility. It truly is the only way forward!

The awareness built around eco-friendly and sustainable practices has enabled customers to make more informed choices about the products they use.

Sources: 3P Contributor, “The COP21 Climate Agreement: What Does It Mean for the United States?”, Triple Pundit, Jan. 20, 2016 (http://www.triplepundit.com/2016/01/cop21-climate-agreement-mean-united-states/)


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Novel thermal energy storage system promises reliable form of solar energy capture

The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-

driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, has announced the successful initiation of its Concentrated Solar Power on Demand Demonstration, CSPonD Demo, pilot at the Masdar Institute Solar Platform, MISP, in Masdar City.

The demonstration is intended to help show that the novel single-tank thermal energy storage, TES, system, which absorbs and stores thermal energy using molten salt

or other liquid transfer media, may prove to be more affordable and efficient than conventional two-tank systems.

“The CSPonD Demo prototype is expected to directly absorb and store 600 KWh of thermal energy in a one-tank system on the ground, thus avoiding the need to pump molten salt to the top of the solar power tower, which is the method employed by traditional two-tank TES systems. It will produce constant power of 25 kW at all times of the day and night,” explained Dr. Nicolas Calvet, Chair of the MISP and Assistant

Professor of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at Masdar Institute.

A traditional two-tank molten salt TES system, like the one developed by the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company Masdar and Spain-based SENER for the 20 MW-Gemasolar CSP power tower plant in Spain, uses rotating mirrors to concentrate sunlight onto a solar receiver located at the top of a high tower.

Molten salt is stored in a “cold” tank on the ground at 290 degrees Celsius and is pumped to the solar

Masdar Institute and MIT’s solar receiver and thermal energy storage prototype to be demonstrated at Masdar Institute Solar Platform.

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receiver through a temperature-controlled piping system. Once heated to 565 degrees Celsius, the molten salt is sent back down to a second hot tank, where it is stored as solar thermal energy.

The CSPonD Demo system avoids the use of pipes, pumps, and double tanks by bringing the sunlight down directly to a receiver on the ground, which it does through secondary mirrors placed at the top of the tower. It also avoids costly receiver tubes that undergo thermal fatigue and can bring the entire system down with the smallest of leaks.

“The six-sided cone we designed is fixed on top of the open receiver, reducing the receiver’s aperture so that less of the molten salt is exposed to the environment. The cone reduces thermal loss while also increasing the concentration of sunlight, enabling the salt to reach higher temperatures,” said Dr. Antoni Gil, a post-doctoral researcher from MIT working on the prototype.

The initial concept for the CSPonD Demo originated from research conducted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which was published in 2011. Masdar

Institute collaborated with MIT to scale-up the original design to create a pre-commercial scale prototype, which they expect to validate at the MISP.

Masdar Institute’s CSPonD activities aim to contribute to a more affordable and reliable form of solar energy capture. Current costs of electricity produced by CSP plants are quite expensive relative to solar photovoltaics, PV. However, CSP systems, coupled with sufficient TES, can dispatch electricity at all times of the day and night and thus have an edge over PV, as PV presently requires

The initial concept for the CSPonD Demo originated from research conducted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which was published in 2011.


40

expensive batteries to store electricity produced during the day.

Developing innovative TES and CSP components that can reduce the energy costs for CSP plants is critical to decreasing the cost of electricity produced by CSP. Dr. Calvet and his team hope to drive down energy costs and increase efficiency of CSP plants through their novel one-tank TES system.

UAE residents plant 600 indigenous trees in Fujairah The Emirates Environmental Group, EEG, has organised its annual “For Our Emirates We Plant” Campaign in the Emirate of Fujairah, which is aimed at helping the national environment as a whole.

EEG is continuing its legacy of creating green spaces in the UAE under the umbrella of the campaign that kicked off in 2007. Through the active participation of a vast number of people, companies and schools, the group has managed to plant over 2,093,927 indigenous trees across the Emirates.

The continuous initiative has influenced a large number of people and organisations

to collect and deposit paper, plastic, mobile phones, toners, battery, aluminum cans and beverage cartons for recycling.

As a result of their efforts and commitment, the participants are awarded with the opportunity to plant trees under their names at this annual event.

During the event, residents from all sectors of society, public and private institutions, academic institutions and families, came together to plant a total of 600 indigenous trees. All the trees were planted under the name of the participating organisations, academic institutions or families. EEG is now looking to continue this momentum into its various campaigns planned for 2016.


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Two endangered pink-backed pelican chicks recently hatched at the Wasit

Wetland Reserve in Sharjah. The first-of-its-kind phenomenon served as proof of the successful efforts made by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah, EPAA, to protect endangered species and ensure biological equilibrium in the ecosystem.

Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah, said, “H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, pays special attention to the environment and natural life. With his support, we are committed to adopting the best

standards and services which meet the needs of organisms and birds in the local ecosystem and to provide the necessary equipment and facilities to scientific research, such as classrooms and laboratories. These facilities help support the efforts made by the Wasit Wetland Reserve to preserve at-risk species.”

Al Suwaidi added, “The Wasit Wetland Reserve provides a safe haven for migratory birds that cross the emirate of Sharjah enroute from the cold north to the warmer south for the winter. The new Wasit Wetland Centre protects rare animals and birds and gives scientists and researchers the opportunity to study the life and breeding of

birds and learn how to protect them from extinction.

The rare pink-backed pelican is a resident of the Arabian Peninsula, and rests during the breeding season for nesting before completing its migration to Africa. An endangered species of bird because of difficulties in breeding, pink-backed pelicans are provided with an ideal habitat similar to their natural environment by the Wasit Nature Reserve, in order to help them survive.

The Wasit Wetland Reserve, established in 2007, is a promising investment for environment conservation and a significant step forward in protecting the ecosystem and endangered species.

Two endangered pink-backed pelican chicks hatched atWasit Wetland Reserve


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‘Nano technologies can lead to ground-breaking innovations in renewable energy’

Leading a discussion on the future of renewable energy at the fourth World Government

Summit (WGS 2016), Justin Hall-Tipping, Chief Executive Officer of NanoHoldings, talked about the need to make use of nanotechnologies and encouraged government officials, leaders and future generations to embrace new thinking of sciences.

He said: “With the earth’s population reaching seven billion, we currently need 3.5 cubic miles of earth’s resources, including energy, to sustain our lives. We get these cubic miles from oil, coal, natural

gas, nuclear energy and burning wood among other methods, but none from renewable energy. Tipping said that 30 years from now, we will need seven cubic miles to sustain our environment, which may seem impossible to produce, but with innovation and ground-breaking technologies, humanity can face these challenges head on.”

Commenting on the ground-breaking nature of nanotechnology, Tipping said: “When considering the building blocks of the universe, the smaller you go, the more energetic a material or element becomes. Nanotechnology changes the

structure of devices and materials to produce new properties and provide new opportunities to innovate. By harnessing properties at the nanoscale, you can take something that is not traditionally energetic, such as aluminum, and shrink to make a more energetic property.”

Tipping focused his discussion on the innovative ways the science community has controlled the building blocks of the universe and changed their structure to create properties and materials that are energy efficient. For example, hydrogen generation, the

With global energy demands set to double in 30 years, energy expert says governments need to embrace new thinking of sciences.

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preferable base used to replace fossil fuels, can be produced more efficiently by splitting water into constituents through electrolysis.

“We need a catalyst to split water. We have been taught, however, that carbon materials do not have the capacity to effectively serve as a catalyst. But if you look at carbon on a nanoscale, then you can take carbon from a pencil, for example, change the structure and pass electricity through it. By upping the voltage, carbon can act as catalyst and accelerate hydrogen generation. All you had to do was change the structure of your pencil.”

Tipping said that these types of innovations should inspire the science community to question what they are taught in school about catalysts and about the rigid rules of elements and properties.

Concluding his session, Tipping said: “Government officials, scientists, and thought leaders have to be bold, embrace the desire to change science as we know and encourage the generations of today to discover the innovations of tomorrow. If governments and leaders see a 2050 vision of a greener economy and build towards it, then we can implement life-

changing technologies. We can’t think about immediate returns on investment. We should instead take a leap of faith, invest in ideas we haven’t thought of and do the unimaginable.”

This partnership will help contributing to the UAE Government’s Vision 2021 which targets, among other goals, diverting waste from landfills by 75% by 2021.


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DEWA highlights private sector’s contribution to innovation in clean energy

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, DEWA,

has noted that Dubai provides the perfect environment for the private sector to actively contribute to renewable energy projects and achieve success.

Al Tayer made the statement during a plenary session on the first day of the World Government Summit. Joe Kaeser, President and CEO of Siemens AG, shared the session with Al Tayer. He noted that discussing renewable energy at this year’s World Government Summit, underlines the importance the UAE

is attaching to renewable and clean energy. Kaeser praised the UAE’s efforts and its futuristic vision for energy.

“At DEWA, we have an integrated vision for energy that focuses on energy security by diversifying the energy mix, the latest technologies, energy storage, CO2 capturing, and increasing efficiency in the production, transmission, and distribution of electricity and water,” added Al Tayer.

Al Tayer highlighted the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, launched by Vice President and Prime Minister

and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to provide 7% of Dubai’s energy from clean sources by 2020, 25% by 2030 and 75% by 2050.

He reviewed DEWA’s efforts to achieve the vision of His Highness and make Dubai a global hub for clean energy and green economy, and the city with the lowest carbon footprint in the world.

He shared DEWA’s experience in increasing use of renewable energy. This includes the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is the largest single-site solar

Dubai provides the perfect environment for the private sector to actively contribute to renewable energy projects and achieve success says Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer during the World Government Summit

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energy project in the world based on the independent power producer model. The solar park will produce 1,000 MW by 2020 and 5,000MW by 2030 with a total investment of AED50 billion.

It will help achieve a reduction of approximately 6.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually, which supports Dubai Government’s green initiatives and programmes.

Al Tayer pointed out that DEWA adopts smart grids that include demand-side management, asset management, distribution automation, substation automation,

system integration, and smart meters, of total AED7 billion investments.

DEWA’s efforts in energy efficiency have contributed to achieving several milestones globally, surpassing major European and American companies in different areas. Losses in power transmission and distribution networks are 3.26%, compared to 6-7% in Europe and the USA.

Water network losses are 8.26%, compared to 15% in North America. Customer minutes lost per year reached 3.87 minutes, compared

to 15 minutes recorded by leading utilities in the EU.

The Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 focuses on energy security by diversifying the energy mix, and reducing energy and water use by 30% by 2030. DEWA invests in 9 programmes as part of the demand-side management strategy. These include green building regulations, retrofitting existing buildings, district cooling, wastewater reuse, laws and standards to raise efficiency, energy-efficient street-lighting, and Shams Dubai, which encourages use of photovoltaic panels.

The Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 focuses on energy security by diversifying the energy mix, and reducing energy and water use by 30% by 2030.


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Two Dubai hotels ‘Go Green’ and reduce utility bills by over AED 4 million in 2015

UAE-based Gloria Hotel and Yassat Gloria Hotel & Apartments have

been awarded Green Globe Certification (GGC) saving AED 4.16 million on their respective electricity and water bills in the process.

Besides a reduction in water and electricity consumption, the two properties witnessed major improvements in a number of other key indicators including carbon footprint per occupied room, and food and waste reduction through the modification of their recycling

programmes. Both Gloria Hotel and Yassat Gloria Hotel & Apartments received scores of 73% and 75% respectively after an audit carried out by UAE-based Farnek, Green Globe’s preferred partner in the Middle East.

This is the first year Gloria Hotels and Resorts has received Green Globe Certification (GGC) and both properties are dedicated to further improving their overall score in 2016, as well as simultaneously achieving additional utility cost savings.

Freddy Farid, Area General

Manager of Gloria Hotels and Resorts said, “Saving four million dirhams is clearly substantial and underscores the correlation between sustainability and cost-efficiency. The Green Globe Certification process has systemized our commitment towards sustainability. It forms an important element within our wider vision and commitment to the environment, society & culture, quality, and health & safety.”

To celebrate the Green Globe Certification (GGC), Gloria Hotel and Yassat Gloria Hotel &

Gloria Hotel and Yassat Gloria Hotel & Apartments have been awarded Green Globe Certification after generating massive savings in electricity and water in just twelve months.

Going Green


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Apartments have both launched an environment focused promotional package called ‘3G: Go Green with Gloria’. Highlights of the package include a two-night stay for two with breakfast, and having a tree planted in the guests’ name.

A complimentary themed dinner in the hotel’s La Terrasse Restaurant or The Avenue Restaurant is also included, as is a 25% discount on all food, beverage and laundry items during the stay.

Says Farid: “We have made tremendous progress to

achieve certification. However this is clearly just a beginning for increased and on-going improvement. Nevertheless, initial key milestones have been achieved including energy savings of more than 8,580 megawatt hours (MWh) and 54,000 cubic metres (m3) of water, which is the equivalent of 22 Olympic-sized swimming pools.”

“We also reduced our carbon emissions by 4,400 tonnes, which is the same as flying to London and back four times,” added Farid.By improving the segregation of recycling materials and

implementing a waste reduction campaign the properties also managed to save 123 tons of waste, which would have otherwise ended up in landfill.

“These results were achieved through passion, dedication and teamwork, which involved not just members of staff, but also the senior management team and the owners of the hotel, all clearly determined to reap the environmental, social and commercial benefits of Green Globe Certification,” commented Sandrine Le Biavant, Director Consultancy FARNEK.

Both properties are dedicated to further improving their overall score in 2016, as well as simultaneously achieving additional utility cost savings.


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Sustainability forum drives millions of dollars for clean energy, water, and waste

Hundreds of millions of US dollars in sustainability-related strategic business

deals and partnerships were struck across clean energy, water, and waste at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2016, organizers announced on 7th February.

Major partnerships included a collaboration between Masdar and the Sharjah-based environmental company Bee’ah to develop the UAE’s first waste-to-energy plant, and an agreement between ABB and Marifer on solar power plants in Jordan. Japanese

firm Hioki launched the world’s first non-metallic voltage meter, which will be used in large-scale utility projects such as a 200 megawatt solar photovoltaic power plant to be built by Masdar in Jordan. The Global Clean Water Desalination Alliance also hosted its first meeting since launching at COP 21 Paris in 2015.

“In addition to realizing major business transactions, ADSW also achieved significant progress in raising community awareness of the importance of sustainability, energy efficiency, and of embracing more environmentally

responsible behavior in our everyday lives,” said Dr Nawal Al Hosany, Director of Sustainability, Masdar.

The World Future Energy Summit (WFES), International Water Summit (IWS), in partnership with ADWEA, and EcoWaste, in partnership with Tadweer, the Center for Waste Management in Abu Dhabi welcomed a record 33,000 attendees, including over 80 government ministers, and 650 exhibiting companies from over 40 countries, including from Egypt, India, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Morocco.

At Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2016, Middle East and North African countries are seen as among world’s leading for clean energy, water, and waste management solutions.

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“As the world’s first major sustainability event since COP 21, Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week’s record deals and partnerships reflects the strong optimism among governments, businesses, and financiers in the region’s Smart Cities, solar rooftops, and desalination plants,” said Naji El Haddad, Group Event Director, WFES, IWS, and EcoWaste.

Leading public and private sector exhibitors included Abdul Latif Jameel, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI), Abu Dhabi Department of Transport (DOT), ADNOC, Atkins,

Averda, BP, Canadian Solar, CH2M Hill, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Dolphin Energy, Dulsco, Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC), ExxonMobil, GE, Hitachi, Huawei, Lavajet, Lockheed Martin, Occidental Petroleum Corporation, Saline WaterConversion Corporation, Schneider Electric, Shell, Siemens, SkyPower Global, Suez Environment, Toshiba, Total, Trina Solar, Veolia, Xylem Inc, and Yingli Green Energy.

Organizers also saw strong attendance at new show features such as the Egypt Energy Forum,

Future Cities Forum, Sustainable Transport, Solar Expo, Energy Efficiency TechTalk, Innovate@IWS, EcoWaste’s MENA Municipalities Roundtable. WFES also announced the launch of the Energy Efficiency Expo for the 2017 edition.

ADSW saw an unprecedented level of youth engagement, with nearly 9,000 students taking part. Female empowerment was also a key topic at ADSW 2016, which staged its first full-day conference dedicated to the Women in Sustainability, Environment & Renewable Energy

Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2016 drove deals across clean energy, water, and waste.

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Global forum addresses the future of sustainable agriculture

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, officially

opened the 3rd edition of the Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture, GFIA, on 16th February in the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi.

Held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, GFIA is the world’s largest and most influential sustainable agriculture show

welcoming thousands of agri-scientists, inventors, growers, food suppliers and producers, NGOs, and key government officials.

Ali Yousef Al Saad, Acting Director of Communication and Community Service at ADFCA, said, “All indications in the run up to the show point towards an incredibly busy opening day and the turnout from international participants has now made it the biggest agricultural show in the world.

“There are scientists from more than 80 countries willing to share their expertise and collaborate with

governments and businesses for the better future of our planet.”

The first day of the conference featured world-class experts from Ireland, Australia, Canada, Switzerland and the Netherlands who highlighted the need for innovative approaches to data monitoring and analysis of agriculture stress factors, such as pesticides, extreme climate conditions, air and water pollution. Examples of applied micro devices and space technology were presented, including the use of hi-tech bee backpacks and near real-time crop monitoring.

Providing enough safe, nutritious food to a growing population is one of the greatest challenges facing the world today, say experts at the Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture held in Abu Dhabi.

Forum


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The plenary session, ‘Working together to implement agricultural innovations’, addressed the need for innovations to help meet the global demand to increase food production by 70 percent to feed over 9 billion people by 2050. Speakers included Mamadou Biteye, Rockefeller Foundation in Kenya, Faisal Abdulla Alhmoudi, Enterprise Development and Innovation at the Abu Dhabi Technology Development Committee, Thad Simmons, Novus International Inc., USA and Dr. Joel Cuello, University of Arizona, USA.

During a panel discussion over

collaboration between public, private, and scientific sectors to promote and facilitate sustainable farming, speakers concluded that integrated crop protection and sustainable cultivation is the only way forward for farmers around the world.

Bioenergy researchThe Sustainable Bioenergy Research Consortium (SBRC) has announced that its soon-to-be operational bioenergy research facility at the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology was featured during the Global Forum for Innovation in Agriculture

- a yearly summit dedicated to advancing game-changing innovations that tackle the challenge of global food security.

Technical tours were facilitated, providing attendees an opportunity to get a preview of the facility before the 6th March inauguration.

“In an interconnected world – where rapidly growing populations stress our finite resources – the UAE is addressing food security challenges,” said Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf, interim provost, Masdar Institute of Science and Technology. “In fact, the UAE imports roughly

GFIA exists to bring together public decision-makers, private sector champions and civil society leaders who develop and catalyze innovations for sustainable agriculture.


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90 percent of its food – at a cost, that if left unchecked, is predicted to increase by 300 percent over the next decade. But the challenge of food security is also an unprecedented opportunity to advance ideas and innovations that are both sustainable and economically viable. The Masdar Institute, along with its partners, is doing just that.

“Next month, we will begin operating the world’s first bioenergy research facility using desert land – irrigated by seawater – to produce both food and aviation fuels,” said Dr. Al Yousuf. “Abu Dhabi’s commitment to advance cutting-edge research that addresses both water and food security underpins the country’s transformation into an

economy driven by knowledge capital.”

The research facility, located on a 2-hectare site at Masdar City, is a platform to explore the commercial viability and scale-up potential of an integrated, sustainable bioenergy system that produces food and fuel, without using arable land or fresh water in a desert environment. Successful development of this technology could support global food security, mitigate carbon emissions and reduce water pollution from industrial fish and shrimp aquaculture operations.

Masdar Institute, together with Etihad Airways, and Boeing, are founding members of SBRC, collaborating to advance the

aviation industry’s commitment to reducing its carbon emissions by developing a clean, alternative fuel supply. Takreer, the Abu Dhabi oil refining company, along with Safran and GE, have since joined the research group.

“The path to address food security starts with embracing research and incubating ideas that have tremendous promise,” said Dr. Kevin Fitzsimmons, professor of environmental science at the University of Arizona, and a globally recognised expert on aquaculture systems. “It’s a challenge that requires a collaborative effort where public and private sectors come together to forward solutions that are both sustainable and economically viable. The SBRC


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facility is an example of how cross-sector cooperation can lead to breakthrough research with the potential to deliver both food and aviation fuel.”

The research facility is based upon an integrated, closed-loop system. The technology uses coastal seawater to raise fish and shrimp for food, whose nutrient-rich wastewater then fertilises plants rich in oils that can be harvested for aviation biofuel production.

The plants thrive in arid, desert conditions and don’t require fresh water or arable land to grow. Lastly, the wastewater is diverted into cultivated mangroves before being discharged back into the sea, further removing nutrients and providing valuable carbon storage.

“The SBRC research facility places the UAE at the centre of knowledge when it comes to sustainable food and aviation fuel production,” said Julie Felgar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes director of Environmental Strategy and Integration. “The advancement of sustainable aviation biofuel – a cleaner, high-performing fuel – will significantly reduce our industry’s carbon emissions.”

More than 2,000 commercial flights have used sustainable aviation biofuel blended with conventional petroleum jet fuel since renewable jet fuel was approved for commercial use in 2011.

“This groundbreaking research has

the potential to commercialise aviation fuel technology, while simultaneously supporting Abu Dhabi’s efforts to address food security, protect freshwater resources and reinforce the growth of an innovation economy,” said Linden Coppell, head of environment, Etihad Airways.


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The third edition of the Plastivision Arabia, an international plastics

exhibition and conference was held from 22–25 February, at the Expo Centre Sharjah.

Organised in association with All India Plastics Manufacturers Association, the event sought to provide insights into improving production and personnel efficiencies and reducing costs.Plastivision Arabia 2016 was aimed at providing regional manufacturers an instant access to new machinery, technologies and materials.

“The regional plastics industry is in the midst of sustained growth focusing mainly on quality, efficiency and environmental

concerns. The industry will have to rely on technical innovations to produce a more diverse product range and achieve sustainable growth,” remarked Rituraj Gupta, the president of the All India Plastic Manufacturers Association.

Plastivision Arabia 2016 welcomed representatives and exhibitors from across the industry’s many sub-sectors, including polymer and machine manufacturers, processors, mould and die manufacturers, traders, exporters, consultants, environmental institutions and many more.

As the official recycling sponsor of Plastivision 2016, Bee’ah showcased a range of its

significant eco-friendly products and services, such as its Tyre Recycling Facility (TRF) and Construction and Demolition Waste Recycling Facility (CDW) products. Bee’ah’s recycled products include crumb rubber used in different rubber flooring applications such as jogging tracks, miniature golf courses as well as artificial turf infill.

Bee’ah also manufactures rubber tiles of different shapes and thicknesses these are widely used as a safety flooring alternative for kids play areas, walkways, and in horse stables and exercise areas.

Moreover, recycled products from Bee’ah’s CDW Facility are reused as aggregate for roads, pavements, and landscaping.

Plastivision Arabia 2016 concludes in Sharjah


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Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Belhaif Nuaimi, Minister of Infrastructure Development,

has said the ministry has launched an initiative to establish charging stations for electric vehicles.

He added that the move is part of the ministry’s efforts to support the green economy and sustainable development. He noted that the UAE aims to become a global leader in this area, and centre for the export and re-export of green products, as well as technologies to maintain a sustainable environment.

The minister said the UAE has been keen since its inception to develop its complete infrastructure with

a high degree of quality and efficiency, catapulting it to advanced positions in the Global Competitiveness indices in the field of infrastructure quality in various forms.

He pointed out that the ministry seeks to raise the efficiency of the infrastructure in the state based on the international best practices in this area, and in line with the UAE Vision 2021 and national agenda.

Climate Change and Environment Minister inspects damsDr. Thani bin Ahmed Al-Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, made field visits to the Central Region and Eastern Region to inspect 24 water storage dams and reservoirs filled

with around three million cubic metres of water after two days of heavy torrents of rainfall.

Accompanied by a number of senior officials from his ministry, the minister stopped at Wadi Shawka dam, Al Mane’ie and Al Qor water reservoirs in Ras Al Khaimah, and Wadi Al Helo and Ghail Kalba reservoirs in Sharjah.

Ministry of Infrastructure launches initiative to install charging stations for electric vehicles


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Dynamic waste management solutions for Dubai’s World Trade Centre

Bee’ah, the Middle East’s leading award-winning fully integrated environment and

waste management company, will be the sole provider of integrated recycling and waste management logistics for Dubai’s renowned World Trade Centre, in line with the company’s plans to provide unmatched environmental services to the emirates.

The newly introduced scheme will see Bee’ah applying top-notch dynamic waste management operations to one of the world’s most famous business and exhibition centres, crystallising

the company’s wide-range expansion plan to neighbouring emirates.

Bee’ah will put into action a dynamic waste management plan that will execute integrated operations specifically designed to suit every exhibition’s needs, this will feature the dispatch of different vehicles, tailored to the necessities of each event taking place at the centre.

Commenting on the development, Khaled Al-Huraimel, Group CEO of Bee’ah, said, “This contract is a testament to our rapidly

expanding client portfolio, and a true reflection of the company’s effectiveness and environmental efficiency in providing integrated waste management and holistic environmental services.”

In accordance with the contract, Bee’ah will introduce sustainable waste handling methods, environmental services, and an advanced smart fleet - including GPS-mapped trucks, mechanical sweepers, Combi-Wash vehicles, and cleansers, which will be tracked for greater efficiency. This will also feature the company’s tri-bins, cages

Bee’ah to be the sole provider of integrated recycling and waste management logistics for Dubai’s renowned World Trade Centre.

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for cardboard and paper waste, and skips, among many other products.

On top of that, Bee’ah provides workshops on source segregation to encourage the ultimate recycling efforts by the complex’s staff and residents. Bee’ah will organise lectures and workshops to educate the centre’s staff and residents on green practices while continuing to provide ongoing environmental consulting on sustainable practices to exhibitions’ administrations, giving insightful information on how to go green.

Green buildings to rationalize energy consumption in Oman

The Sultanate of Oman is shifting towards ‘ Green Building’ in a bid to rationalize energy consumption and utilize the renewal solar and wind energy, Khamis bin Salim al- Soli, Chairman of Oman Green Building Center, said in an interview with Oman Economic newspaper, carried by Oman News Agency, ONA.

He said that the Sultanate plans to build a center for green buildings under the umbrella of the Omani Engineers Society.

He added that researches have pointed out that 45% of buildings are responsible for the use of world energy, 80% of water produced and 50% of materials are consumed by buildings.

The aims behind the construction of such buildings are to reduce 35-50% of the CO2 emission by utilizing wind and solar renewable energy, he said. “Green buildings bring many benefits, such as reducing the production of solid wastes to the minimum and ensure tranquility and peace of mind by circulating air and utilizing solar heating at home.”

Bee’ah will introduce sustainable waste handling methods, environmental services, and an advanced smart fleet which will be tracked for greater efficiency.


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Sustainability business practices in focus at Abu Dhabi forum

Sustainability leaders and practitioners from around the UAE, region and the world

convened at the Second Abu Dhabi Sustainable Business Leadership Forum in the UAE capital on 17th February.

The forum, hosted by the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group, ADSG, aimed to foster sustainable development, innovation, and responsible business growth.

The two-day forum also provided opportunities to learn from regional experiences and be exposed to some of the latest sustainability

approaches from global thought-leaders. The event was supported by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, EAD, and sponsored by Dolphin Energy and Etihad Airways as the official airline for the event.

The event opened with a keynote address by Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, Secretary-General of EAD, who said, “The timeliness of this forum could not be more opportune in many ways. The vital signs of the planet are not looking good. We see many ecosystems and species in decline and fish stocks have collapsed; the Global Burden of Disease Projects

reported earlier this month that 5.5 million people worldwide are dying prematurely every year as a result of air pollution, and the impacts of climate change are being felt with shrinking ice sheets and an increased prevalence of extreme weather events.

“There is however hope that we may be at a pivotal point in history. 2015 was a year where nations came together and agreed a framework for change, 193 nations became signatories to the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 targets. These far-reaching targets address key global

Abu Dhabi Sustainable Business Leadership Forum aimed to foster sustainable development, innovation, and responsible business growth.

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sustainability issues including poverty, hunger, climate change, equality, water, the state of our oceans, education, justice, and many more,” Al Mubarak added.

“We have also recently seen the celebrations following COP21, the Paris Climate Conference, and the fact that we are seemingly a step closer to a legally binding and universal agreement on Climate Change.

“This aims to ensure we see global warming curbed to within the 2 degrees above pre-industrial temperatures deemed by scientists

as a critical threshold. Consensus was reached among the 196 parties attending, and 146 national climate panels publically presented draft Intended National Determined Contributions, INDCs,” the Secretary-General of EAD added.

“The UAE must now take the necessary steps to achieve these goals domestically, to make our contribution to reducing the impacts of climate change and to support others to achieve these goals where we can.

“Domestically we need a rapid transformation of our economy,

to a green economy model, which is resource efficient, decouples growth from emissions, is competitive and knowledge-based and provides a platform to export green technology and services” she said.

Al Mubarak stressed, “Achieving these ambitious goals and transforming our economy will need focused and determined effort driven by a partnership of the different sectors of the economy - government and the regulatory sector, the private sector, advocacy bodies and various other communities.”

More than 200 thought leaders, sustainability professionals and business pioneers gathered to debate topics and issues that are critical to sustainability.


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Renewal of commitment to improve air quality control in Abu Dhabi

The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, EAD, and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company,

ADNOC, have renewed their commitment to work together for the improvement of air quality control in Abu Dhabi by officially signing a terms of reference document. The document sets out a framework for collaboration on data exchange and the preservation of air quality through the use of all means available to both parties.

The document is a follow-up to the Memorandum of Understanding that EAD signed with ADNOC in

2012 to strengthen collaboration on the preservation of the environment in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and to contribute to the leadership’s vision through a set of environmental initiatives.

Bakheet Salem Al Ameri, Manager of the Health, Safety and Environment Division at ADNOC, and Shaikha Al Hosani, Deputy Executive Director of Environmental Quality at EAD, were signatories to the terms of reference document.

The terms of reference set procedures for electronic

linking (e-Linking) of the central databases for air quality monitoring networks owned by both parties.

In addition to outlining processes, the terms also included the development of a detailed schedule agreed by experts from both parties to complete the e-Link within a specified period of time.

The terms define that the e-Linking project will see the database being updated every hour at the ADNOC monitoring stations in Al Mubarraz Island, Sas

Government entities in the UAE have renewed their commitment to improve air quality control in Abu Dhabi by officially signing a terms of reference document.

Air Quality


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Al Nakhl Island, Ruwais, Madinat Zayed, Ghayathi, Liwa, Asab and at any future stations to fall under this agreement.

EAD had recently announced the completion of phase 1 of the e-Linking project at a meeting it with its strategic partners from government entities that operate air quality monitoring stations on both the local and federal levels.

Al Ameri said, “This e-Linking is in-line with ADNOC’s vision that ensures its commitment in contributing to the comprehensive sustainable

development plan of the emirate. ADNOC takes a leading part in the tangible efforts and collaborations by all stakeholders in consolidating initiatives and available resources for the protection of the environment.

“As per ADNOC strategic objectives on Health, Safety and Environment, HSE, a network of eight ambient air quality stations (AQMS) was established in 2007 and were positioned in the close proximity of its major oil and gas operational facilities in the emirate, seven of which are fixed and one mobile.

“Recently, in 2015, this network was expanded with the addition of five new AQMS stations, three of which are fixed and two are mobile. This addition will enable the assessment and monitoring of new pollutants in addition to the existing monitoring of criteria air pollutants, namely particulate matter of 2.5 micron in size (PM2.5), volatile organic compounds, ammonia, noise pollution, and atmospheric pressure.”

Mr. Al Ameri continued, “ADNOC is proud of its leading role in contributing to Abu Dhabi

The terms of reference set procedures for electronic linking (e-Linking) of the central databases for air quality monitoring networks owned by both parties.


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Vision, which is to guarantee a sustainable and robust supply of energy to support the sustainable development of the country.

This is achieved by implementing safe operational and environmental protection procedures, through the use of clean technologies that enhances resources and operational efficiency, and environmental performance.

Shaikha Al Hosani said, “EAD is contributing to the sustainable development of the emirate in line with our leadership’s vision through the collaboration with partners on strategic initiatives to improve air quality. Through such initiatives, we aim to

consolidate efforts and do this through capacity integration and knowledge exchange to better support the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water in developing policies and regulations to improve air quality across the UAE.”

EAD successfully completed the first phase of linking air quality networks with the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority, ADWEA, ZonesCorp, National Center of Meteorology and Seismology, NCMS, and Dubai Municipality. Additionally, e-Linking with federal entities including the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology, NCMS, the Dubai Municipality, was also completed in support of MoEW’s efforts to oversee the

UAE e-Linking initiative.

She also emphasised that the maintenance of an up-to-date and accurate central database of information on air quality allows EAD to make science-based recommendations to better inform the decision making process. Furthermore, this step contributes to the future development of joint standards on air quality control and standardisation processes for the monitoring stations.


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Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, DEWA, has won the Best m-Government

Service Award in the environment category, which was announced on 10th February, the last day of the World Government Summit 2016, held under the patronage and in the presence of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

DEWA has won this award for the second consecutive year.

”Winning this prestigious award emphasises the priority of environmental issues for DEWA. It also underlines the importance of raising society’s environmental awareness and the need to

improve our behaviour towards environmental resources.

“We integrate environmental protection into all of our strategies and plans, and utilise our electronic and smart services to serve our environmental objectives. DEWA exerts every effort possible to achieve the sustainability of our natural resources, to ensure a healthy, bright future for generations to come,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA.

“The award crowns DEWA’s efforts in developing its smart services and reflects its success in adopting creativity and excellence to provide the best smart and efficient services. It also supports our ongoing efforts to achieve our

vision to become a sustainable innovative world-class utility, and make society and stakeholders happier,” added Al Tayer.

“This award reflects our commitment to developing and improving all our systems to fulfil Dubai’s current and future needs. We do our best to improve our services and keep up with the continuous developments and increasing needs of all people.At DEWA, we are committed to developing the strategies and plans that contribute to achieving excellence and creativity in all the services that we provide to our customers so that they can complete their transactions in a smart and seamless wat anytime, anywhere,” said Moza Al Akraf, CIO of DEWA.

DEWA wins best m-Government Award in environment category at World Government Summit


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Mourjan Marinas – Lusail City, Doha’s premier yachting destination, has

showcased the success of its floating mangroves project, at a special documentary shooting.

Mourjan Marinas – Lusail City launched the project in 2012 together with UNESCO and Lusail City to monitor the use of mangroves for capturing carbon emissions, or sequestration, helping to reduce atmospheric carbon levels. Since its launch, the project continues to capture international attention from the science and environmental communities as mangroves also provide a safe, sheltered home for hundreds of birds and marine species, which aids biodiversity and helps to increase fish stocks.

“The protection of the environment has definitely become a factor taken into consideration in every business and not just in the marine industry. As human activity increases across the globe, it is the duty of every noble citizen and organization to employ initiatives that reduce the impact of carbon emissions,” Wayne Shepherd, General Manager of Mourjan Marinas commented.

“Conservation of the local environment and being as eco-friendly as we can is extremely important to Mourjan Marinas. We ensure that all of our marinas are built and maintained with the greatest sensitivity to the local environment. For a long time it has been our vision to have this break-

through initiative incorporated into the design and construction of our marinas, and we are delighted to have partnered with UNESCO and Lusail Real Estate Development Company to make it a reality,” Shepherd added.

In 2014, Mourjan Marinas – Lusail City was awarded a regional-first marine industry international achievement award with the Clean Marina accreditation.

Qatar’s floating mangroves project captures international attention


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The European Commission has adopted an EU Action Plan to tackle wildlife trafficking

within the EU and to strengthen the EU’s role in the global fight against these illegal activities.

The Action Plan, adopted on 26th February, is an ambitious blueprint that mobilises all EU diplomatic, trade and development cooperation tools to crack down on what has become one of the most profitable criminal activities worldwide.

The Action Plan comprises 32 measures to be carried out between now and 2020 by the EU and its 28 Member States. It focuses on three priorities: Prevent trafficking and reduce supply and demand of illegal

wildlife products; Enhance implementation of existing rules and combat organised crime more effectively by increasing cooperation between competent enforcement agencies; Strengthen cooperation between source, destination and transit countries, including strategic EU financial support to tackle trafficking in source countries, help build capacity for enforcement and provide long term sources of income to rural communities living in wildlife-rich areas.

Recent years have seen a dramatic surge in wildlife trafficking. An estimated 8 to 20 billion euro pass annually through the hands of organised criminal groups, ranking alongside the trafficking of drugs, people and

arms. It not only threatens the survival of some emblematic species, it also breeds corruption, claims human victims, and deprives poorer communities of much-needed income. It also threatens security in Central Africa, where militia and terrorist groups partly fund their activities through wildlife trafficking.

Karmenu Vella, EU Commissioner for Environment, Fisheries and Maritime Affairs said: “Wildlife trafficking is a major threat to our sustainable future. At this rate, a child born today will see the last wild elephants and rhinos die before their 25th birthdays. The new Action Plan seeks to ending this criminal activity, bringing together political will and action on the ground.”

European Commission launches Action Plan to crack down on wildlife trafficking



Dr. Eisa M. AbdelllatifChief Technical AdvisorZayed International Foundation for the Environment

The implementation of the Paris Accord needs mass media mobilizationClimate change negotiations passed through very difficult stages over the last 21 years mainly over priorities, responsibilities and implementation mechanisms. Industrial countries obstructed any legally binding commitments to cut down emissions or to pay in support of poor countries.

By 2015, environmental disasters got worse and even during the Paris Summit there were devastating disasters in Europe, Asia and America. This exerted real pressure on industrial countries to reach an agreement. We hope that they will fulfill their commitments without trying to use them for political purposes.

The United Arab Emirates is part of the Arid & Semiarid Region which is subject to medium to severe impact of climate change due to its poor soil and low water reserves. Socio-economic impact can hit coastal areas, water resources, agriculture, human settlements, public health, infrastructure and desert ecosystem, which are all sensitive to climate change. Hence, impact should be evaluated continuously to determine the best response and mitigation strategies. This is clearly reflected in the UAE Vision 2021 (Sustainable Environment & Infrastructure), Green Growth Strategy (A Green Economy for Sustainable Development) and the Green Economy Initiative focusing on six areas and including legislation, policies, programs and projects.

This early response to local, regional and international developments and the enlightened planning has really improved the status of the UAE in many global indicators. The UAE ranked number one in the Middle East and 25th globally in Environmental Performance 2014. This is a jump of 52 ranks in two years when compared to its rank of 2012. The UAE Environmental Footprint also decreased by one-third in 10 years (2006 -2016).

However, the implementation of the Paris Accord requires the mobilization of grass roots to:

1. Adopt sustainable life styles at the individual, family & community levels.

2. Strengthen pressure groups that can push the governments to take the issue more seriously and exert an effort equivalent to each country’s resources.

Public mobilization cannot be achieved without the activation of mass media to take their role in this vital issue very seriously. Mass media are the key to raising public awareness and imprinting the culture of sustainable living. It is very unfortunate that both global & local mass media are still lagging far behind regarding the environmental issues when compared to politics, sports, economy & arts.

In the UAE for example, the wise leadership has the vision and strong will to lead the world in green development and sustainable living. It has achieved unprecedented leaps at the government level; yet, the society is still mostly living unsustainable life styles in public and private places. This is mainly due to the very weak role of mass media in the environmental arena, except for the news coverage. There are specialized reporters for sports, arts and politics but none for environment and development. Mass media and Information departments in Environment Agencies need to review their role in this vital field and to reset priorities.

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creating green communities for a better tomorro 157157...email: [email protected] creating green communities f or a better tomorro w 6 President Khalifa calls for continued

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