In a significant milestone during COP28, the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) and Tadweer (Abu Dhabi Waste Management Company) have formally introduced the ‘Waste to Zero’ initiative. In addition, this groundbreaking global endeavor, unveiled at the esteemed climate conference, seeks to lead the way in decarbonizing waste management and establishing a circular economy framework, thereby reinforcing the UAE’s steadfast dedication to sustainability.
The announcement was made amidst the prestigious COP28 conference, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to promoting international cooperation and presenting groundbreaking solutions to address climate change. Furthermore, Her Excellency (H.E.) Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change & Environment, delivered a keynote address at COP28, officially unveiling the ‘Waste to Zero’ initiative and assuming the position of its chairperson to spearhead its ambitious objectives.
H.E. Almheiri said, “The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment” had the honour of working with Tadweer to launch the initiative. Here at COP28, we are reaching out to all stakeholders to collaborate and activate concrete scalable solutions to decarbonize the waste management value chain. This directly relates to one of the key implementation pillars of COP28 – lives and livelihoods.”
She added, “Waste to Zero is a voluntary coalition that strives for sector emission reduction in line with the Paris Agreement and supports circular economy implementation. Through this, we aim to address all possible solutions from waste minimization to waste-to-energy infrastructure, and to pivot to a circular economy model.”
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A platform for dialogue and awareness
For his part, Ali Al Dhaheri, CEO of Tadweer: “This collaboration marks a significant step in consolidating our efforts to address climate change. ‘Waste to Zero’ is more than an initiative; it is a platform for dialogue, awareness, and actionable solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the waste sector.
Additionally, Al Dhaheri added, “Tadweer is committed to driving change alongside our partners, MOCCAE and Roland Berger. Together, we look forward to inspiring transformative solutions, creating a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.”
Finding sustainable solutions
Similarly, Hani Tohme, managing partner at Roland Berger Middle East: “‘Waste to Zero’ represents a crucial milestone in our commitment to finding sustainable solutions for the decarbonization of the waste management sector. Through this initiative, we aim to turn the global waste crisis into an opportunity for growth, renewal, and resilience. COP28 serves as a fitting platform to highlight the importance of finding innovative solutions, and together with MOCCAE and Tadweer, we are enthusiastic about contributing to a greener, more sustainable world.”
Additionally, MOCCAE and Tadweer, at the helm of the ‘Waste to Zero’ initiative, will organize global discussions, workshops, and awareness programs. These activities will primarily center around circular economy goals, sustainable resource management, and the latest advancements in waste management and carbon emission reduction.
Addressing challenges
The ‘Waste to Zero’ initiative tackles the challenges faced by the waste management sector while aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and climate change objectives. Moreover, it seeks to advance global decarbonization by attracting investments in infrastructure projects, generating employment opportunities, reducing reliance on natural resources, and fortifying regulatory frameworks.
Working towards tangible results
Furthermore, this collaborative effort aims to emphasize the crucial role of the waste management sector in addressing climate change, encouraging all stakeholders to elevate their ambitions and strive for tangible outcomes. Additionally, ‘Waste to Zero’ aligns with the objectives of the Paris Agreement, exemplifying concrete action towards mitigating climate change and fostering a sustainable future.
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