Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, the UAE minister of Climate Change and Environment, urged businesses within the country’s expansive retail sector to integrate sustainability into their operations. She emphasized the need to elevate climate ambition and encourage positive behavioral changes among consumers through this approach.
Almheiri addressed the 13th National Dialogue for Climate Ambition (NDCA), a monthly stakeholder forum organized by the Ministry to enhance sectoral climate ambition and foster inclusive participation. During her speech, she highlighted the significant impact that the UAE’s retail sector can have in attaining the nation’s objective of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050.
Strong commitment
Taking place at Dubai Chambers, the sponsor of the annual Retail Summit, a renowned global event for retailers and industry experts, Almheiri announced the inclusion of 13 additional businesses who have signed the UAE Climate Responsible Companies Pledge. This brings the total number of signatories to 131. The pledge signifies a strong commitment from these companies to integrate sustainability into their operations and to inspire their customers and partners to embrace sustainable practices.
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Almheiri said: “For the UAE to meet its climate goals we need every part of the economy working towards creating a greener future – and that includes retail. I welcome 13 more signatories of the UAE Climate Responsible Companies Pledge, which underline their commitment to climate action. At COP28 next month, UAE businesses will not be sitting on the sidelines. They will be front and centre, showcasing sustainable action, innovation, and ambition. They will show that business must be part of the climate solution.”
Significant contribution
Reports indicate that global retail supply chains contribute to 25 percent of global emissions and account for 40 percent of worldwide plastic consumption. Moreover, plastic production has doubled in the last two decades, with only 9 percent being recycled. Recognizing these challenges, the retail sector’s perspective and management of emissions and plastic usage are vital components of the UAE’s strategic vision and climate objectives.
“Addressing how the retail sector views and manages both emissions and plastic usage is a strategic imperative for climate action,” said Almheiri. “This is also because less than 20 percent of retailers are on track to supporting the world in meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement. Here in the UAE, we are fortunate to not only have a very strong leadership steer and commitment but also such an inspiring business community that is ready to convert climate action as a tangible reality.”
Green transition
She added: “We must also support customers make the green transition and change behaviour. We can do this by enabling retailers, consumers and supply chains move in the same direction towards sustainability. A move that is in everyone’s interests. Businesses that are embracing the green transition are feeling the economic benefits. From jobs to technological efficiencies, sustainable practices can help drive growth. The UAE, through its Green Agenda 2030 is encouraging businesses to grow in a more sustainable way.”
Tangible economic advantages
In her closing remarks, Almheiri stressed that businesses embracing the green transition are experiencing tangible economic advantages. She explained the importance of enabling all businesses to seize these opportunities as we move towards a greener future. The Minister highlighted the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030, which encourages businesses to cultivate sustainable growth through awareness programs and incentive schemes. These initiatives include support for green manufacturing, promotion of alternative fuel usage, and the promotion of green job opportunities for recent graduates.
13 businesses
The following 13 businesses have recently signed the UAE Climate Responsible Companies Pledge: Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Tristar, Transworld, Arabian Gulf Steel Industries (AGSI), Future Glass, FIVE Holdings, HITACHI, IN2 Communications, M42 Mubadala Health, Middle East Solar Industry Association (MESIA), Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC), AMEA Power, Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD), and Ricardo.
NDCA
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) launched the National Dialogue for Climate Ambition (NDCA) as an initiative aimed at defining and enhancing sectoral climate ambition while promoting active participation in the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. The 13th session of the NDCA, titled ‘Shifting to A Responsible Consumer Behavior in the Retail Industry,’ featured engaging discussions and roundtable sessions covering topics such as ‘Greening Retail’ and ‘Driving Retail Towards Net Zero: Opportunities, Incentives, and Challenges.’ Distinguished speakers at the event included Omar Khan, Head of the Center for Business Studies and Research, and Mohammad Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers.
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