The UAE Council for Climate Change and Environment held its first meeting in 2018, presided over by His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment. The meeting was convened at the Telal Resort Al Ain and attended by Council members from local and federal authorities and the private sector.
Al Zeyoudi recounted at the meeting that the UAE Council for Climate Change and Environment was formed in accordance with the vision of the UAE’s wise leadership and reflected national efforts to adopt best-in-class global practices to promote sustainability as a lifestyle and a key element in all development schemes to ensure the preservation of the local environment for present and future generations.
The Council’s first meeting in 2018 highlighted the major environmental and climate change projects and initiatives that were carried out last year, and outlined the plans for this year. A special focus was given to the 38th Tree Planting Week, the Unified Address and Spatial Guidance System, and the Smart Board for Green Indicators.
The meeting provided updates on the air quality and the proportion of treated waste from the total waste produced in the UAE in line with the objectives of the UAE National Agenda. It also discussed the deliverables of the Climate Innovations Exchange (CLIX), hosted by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2018.
The members of the Council reviewed the ambitious goals expected to be realized based on the national air emissions inventory. In addition, they reviewed the air quality satellite monitoring project, the ministerial decrees on the use of recycled materials and on banned and restricted-use pesticides.
The UAE Council for Climate Change and Environment was formed following Ministerial Decision No (795) of 2016, and tasked with formulating the country’s policy and strategies on climate change, environmental issues, and sustainable development, as well as with developing plans to achieve them and represent the UAE in regional and international negotiations related to the scope of work of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. The Council will also establish partnerships with the private sector and conduct studies and lead scientific research in fields related to the Ministry’s work.
The Council, through these meetings, aims to find solutions to the crucial environmental challenges faced by the country while maintaining economic growth and protecting cultural and civilizational heritage. It also aims to develop and implement a comprehensive and ambitious plan that will serve as a regional benchmark in dealing with climate change and the environment.