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UAE commits to reducing carbon emissions under new national policy on biofuels

Strategic approval reinforces commitment to clean energy and climate action objectives
UAE commits to reducing carbon emissions under new national policy on biofuels
The policy will reduce carbon emissions by increasing the consumption of biodiesel by 20 percent by 2050 (Photo: WAM)

The UAE has revealed the details of the national policy on biofuels, recently approved by the UAE Cabinet. The policy supports the country’s shift to clean and sustainable energy sources and commits to reducing carbon emissions through increasing the usage of biofuels.

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), in coordination with its strategic partners from the public and private sectors, developed the policy to provide sustainable fuel alternatives and further diversify the energy mix.

Vision for clean energy

The national policy on biofuels will play an important role in the UAE’s efforts towards decarbonization. It will reduce carbon emissions by increasing the consumption of biodiesel by 20 percent by 2050. In addition, it will decrease the carbon footprint of diesel cars by 75 percent when biodiesel fuel consumption reaches 100 percent.

Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, minister of energy and infrastructure, added that the policy on biofuels contributes to achieving the objectives of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050. “It will enhance the implementation of circular economy principles in various sectors, such as infrastructure, mobility and manufacturing, and will drive economic growth through using waste as input for production,” Al Mazrouei added.

Regulatory framework and oversight

The MoEI is working diligently with its partners to establish regulations and controls for the distribution of biofuels. Moreover, it aims to ensure adherence to production standards and utilization criteria within the country. This comprehensive approach not only supports the objectives of energy demand-side management programs but also reinforces the UAE’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Industry endorsement

The adoption of the policy on biofuels has garnered widespread support from key industry players. Leaders from organizations such as Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat), ENOC Group, Lootah Biofuels, Alserkal Group, ADNOC Distribution, and bp UAE have lauded the initiative for its transformative potential and contribution to sustainable development.

For his part, Saif Humaid Al Falasi, CEO of ENOC Group, stated: “We have expanded the application of this biofuel to reach various sectors, including operating marine abras and some of our assets such as ENOC Link trucks, in addition to providing it to customers through the innovative ‘e-link’ platform for fuel delivery.”

Bader Saeed Al Lamki, CEO of ADNOC Distribution, said, “The introduction of a national policy on biofuels is a welcome step in the UAE’s sustainable mobility journey.”

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Advancing the energy transition

The policy on biofuels represents a significant milestone in the UAE’s journey towards sustainable mobility and energy security. By promoting the use of renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the policy paves the way for a greener economy and a more resilient energy sector.

With growing customer demand for biofuels, the UAE’s national policy serves as a catalyst for international collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Industry leaders, including bp, are committed to supporting the UAE’s energy transition agenda by sharing best practices and expertise, further accelerating the adoption of clean energy solutions.

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