
UAE-Led Waste to Zero Initiative Unveils Global Roadmap to Decarbonise Waste Sector
The Waste to Zero initiative has released its first-ever Policy Hack Report, laying out a global roadmap to decarbonise the waste sector.
Spearheaded by the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), the report consolidates expert insights and policy recommendations aimed at transforming waste management into a sustainable, circular, and low-carbon system.
The report follows a dedicated Policy Hack event themed The Critical Imperative to Decarbonise the Waste Industry , where government leaders, private sector players, and sustainability experts gathered to address economic, technological, and policy barriers in the sector.
Recommendations include introducing carbon pricing, incentivising grassroots recycling, and creating a centralised UAE waste database. These align with Waste to Zero's six strategic workstreams: data frameworks, financing, circularity solutions, legislative models, decarbonisation roadmaps, and behavioural engagement.
H.H. Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of UICCA, said the report reflects a collective effort to drive tangible action across finance, policy, and public engagement. 'This marks a significant step forward in the UAE's push for a circular and decarbonised waste sector,'
she noted.
Ali Al Dhaheri, CEO of Tadweer Group, added, 'From AI-driven waste tracking to financial incentives for recycling, the report outlines solutions that support sustainability and economic growth in line with Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.'
Backed by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and with over 50 coalition members, Waste to Zero aims to align global waste decarbonisation efforts with the Paris Agreement. The initiative is set to maintain momentum through ongoing working group sessions, with further developments expected ahead of COP30 in Brazil later this year.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Al Etihad
ADFD's cumulative development financing hit Dh216.5 billion, benefitting 107 countries
4 June 2025 22:48 ABU DHABI (WAM)The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has published its 2024 Annual Report, showcasing its pioneering achievements in advancing strategic objectives aligned with the UAE's foreign aid report underscores the ADFD's vital role in supporting global sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for communities report emphasises ADFD's significant contributions to major national agendas, including the UAE Export Development Policy, UAE Centennial 2071, and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. These efforts are led by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), part of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), aimed at strengthening the global competitiveness of the UAE's industrial the end of 2024, ADFD's cumulative development financing reached Dh216.5 billion, benefitting 107 countries across various continents. This total comprises Dh157 billion in concessional loans, Dh57.6 billion in government grants, and Dh1.9 billion in direct financing supported strategic projects in critical sectors including renewable energy, infrastructure, such as housing, transportation, education, technology, and water security, helping to drive economic growth and improve quality of life in partner nations. Private Sector Growth ADFD remains committed to supporting the national economy and the long-term growth of Emirati companies, while enhancing their international reach. In this context, ADEX allocated Dh4 billion in financing by the end of 2024 to support UAE national exports, facilitating access to over 40 global also prioritised the role of the UAE private sector, allocating Dh6 billion in financing, which benefitted 19 Emirati companies implementing strategic projects across 8 an investment perspective, the Fund saw robust growth, with total investments reaching Dh12.2 billion across 22 countries. ADFD currently invests in 17 companies across a range of sectors, helping to strengthen financial resources, stimulate key economic activities in partner countries, and create sustainable job opportunities for local a strategic reflection on the 2024 Annual Report, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of ADFD's Board of Directors, said: 'The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan believed that the essence of civilised progress is measured by the value of the individual and their good deeds, whose impact lasts a lifetime. This philosophy formed the foundation upon which Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) was established in 1971, transforming it into a developmental institution that embodies the values of the UAE and a shining beacon spreading its sustainable impact around the world."UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan follows the same path, carrying forward a legacy of giving, and supporting the objectives of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, in a way that achieves global prosperity." Foreign Aid His Highness Sheikh Sheikh Mansour added: 'The Fund plays an exceptional role in supporting the UAE's foreign aid policy, which is based on principles of development and achieving economic and social stability in developing countries. Additionally, it strengthens partnerships with international and regional organizations to establish a sustainable developmental impact, reflecting the UAE's position as a global force driving sustainable development.'His Highness Sheikh Mansour said, 'Based on its strategic vision, the Fund seeks to expand its operational activities and innovate sustainable solutions that contribute to the development of partner countries. It also continues supporting the national economy by providing innovative financing tools that empower UAE companies to expand and reach new markets.'His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Vice Chairman of ADFD's Board of Directors, stated: 'ADFD continues to achieve more milestones, using its developmental and economic tools to enhance the UAE's position regionally and internationally, solidifying its role as an active and influential global player."Thanks to the visionary of the leadership, the Fund has become a pioneering model in adopting a strategic approach to financing vital projects that create a lasting impact and contribute to supporting the developmental programs of developing nations to meet their aspirations and strengthen their infrastructure and economies.'His Highness Sheikh Abdullah added, 'In 2024, the Fund made exceptional efforts to help countries overcome their economic and social challenges, financing many major developmental projects with a sustainable impact in areas such as energy, water, infrastructure, education, , technology, food security, and other key sectors that contribute to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals and improving the well-being of people.'His Highness Sheikh Abdullah also emphasised, 'In addition to the sustainable development impact the Fund has achieved globally, it continues to play a vital role in supporting the national economy by enhancing UAE exports and developing the capabilities of local companies to compete in global markets. That contributes to achieving sustainable economic diversification, benefiting society as a whole.'On the release of the 2024 Annual Report, Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, said,: 'The achievements of ADFD are a testament to the UAE's unwavering commitment to sustainable development, a vision set forth by the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This foundation paved the way for ADFD to become a key partner of development in emerging countries and a significant contributor to building a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.'Al Suwaidi continued, 'Recent accomplishments reflect the steadfast support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose visionary leadership serves as a beacon of inspiration. Equally, the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of ADFD Board of Directors, has been instrumental in enabling ADFD to provide vital support, enhancing the quality of life for millions of people worldwide and playing a key role in the development of more advanced and resilient societies.'In a global recognition of its leadership, ADFD received the 2024 United Nations Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Partnerships Award in the economic category for its renewable energy initiatives in the Pacific and Caribbean islands. This is the first time the award has been granted to an institution from the Middle East and North Africa a move that reflects its institutional development and forward-looking vision, ADFD launched its new corporate identity in 2024 under the slogan, 'Shaping the Future Together', reaffirming its commitment to the UAE's vision for supporting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and building a prosperous, sustainable future for people around the on decades of impact, ADFD is advancing its global development mission, guided by an integrated and adaptive strategy that reflects the UAE leadership's forward-looking vision and ambition to establish the Fund as a globally recognised national institution in development work and a key supporter of the national economy. Aligned with the UAE's foreign aid policy, the strategy emphasises impactful development outcomes—both internationally and domestically—aimed at building prosperous, resilient societies for generations to come.


Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) advances UAE sustainable development goals locally and globally
4 June 2025 10:21 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has published its 2024 Annual Report, showcasing its pioneering achievements in advancing strategic objectives aligned with the UAE's foreign aid policy. The report underscores the ADFD's vital role in supporting global sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for communities report emphasises ADFD's significant contributions to major national agendas, including the UAE Export Development Policy, UAE Centennial 2071, and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision efforts are led by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), part of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), aimed at strengthening the global competitiveness of the UAE's industrial the end of 2024, ADFD's cumulative development financing reached Dh216.5 billion, benefitting 107 countries across various total comprises Dh157 billion in concessional loans, Dh57.6 billion in government grants, and Dh1.9 billion in direct contributions. The financing supported strategic projects in critical sectors, including renewable energy, infrastructure, such as housing, transportation, education, technology, and water security, helping to drive economic growth and improve quality of life in partner remains committed to supporting the national economy and the long-term growth of Emirati companies, while enhancing their international reach. In this context, ADEX allocated Dh4 billion in financing by the end of 2024 to support UAE national exports, facilitating access to over 40 global markets. ADFD also prioritised the role of the UAE private sector, allocating Dh6 billion in financing, which benefited 19 Emirati companies implementing strategic projects across eight an investment perspective, the Fund saw robust growth, with total investments reaching Dh12.2 billion across 22 countries. ADFD currently invests in 17 companies across a range of sectors, helping to strengthen financial resources, stimulate key economic activities in partner countries, and create sustainable job opportunities for local a strategic reflection on the 2024 Annual Report, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of ADFD's Board of Directors, said, 'Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan believed that the essence of civilised progress is measured by the value of the individual and their good deeds, whose impact lasts a lifetime. This philosophy formed the foundation upon which Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) was established in 1971, transforming it into a developmental institution that embodies the values of the UAE and a shining beacon spreading its sustainable impact around the world. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, follows the same path, carrying forward a legacy of giving and supporting the objectives of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, in a way that achieves global prosperity.'His Highness stated, 'The Fund plays an exceptional role in supporting the UAE's foreign aid policy, which is based on principles of development and achieving economic and social stability in developing countries. Additionally, it strengthens partnerships with international and regional organisations to establish a sustainable developmental impact, reflecting the UAE's position as a global force driving sustainable development.'His Highness added, 'Based on its strategic vision, the Fund seeks to expand its operational activities and innovate sustainable solutions that contribute to the development of partner countries. It also continues supporting the national economy by providing innovative financing tools that empower UAE companies to expand and reach new markets.'His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Vice Chairman of ADFD's Board of Directors, stated, 'ADFD continues to achieve more milestones, using its developmental and economic tools to enhance the UAE's position regionally and internationally, solidifying its role as an active and influential global player. Thanks to the visionary of the leadership, the Fund has become a pioneering model in adopting a strategic approach to financing vital projects that create a lasting impact and contribute to supporting the developmental programs of developing nations to meet their aspirations and strengthen their infrastructure and economies.'His Highness added, 'In 2024, the Fund made exceptional efforts to help countries overcome their economic and social challenges, financing many major developmental projects with a sustainable impact in areas such as energy, water, infrastructure, education, technology, food security, and other key sectors that contribute to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals and improving the well-being of people.'His Highness also emphasised, 'In addition to the sustainable development impact the Fund has achieved globally, it continues to play a vital role in supporting the national economy by enhancing UAE exports and developing the capabilities of local companies to compete in global markets. That contributes to achieving sustainable economic diversification, benefiting society as a whole.'On the release of the 2024 Annual Report, His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, said, 'The achievements of ADFD are a testament to the UAE's unwavering commitment to sustainable development, a vision set forth by the Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This foundation paved the way for ADFD to become a key partner of development in emerging countries and a significant contributor to building a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.'His Excellency continued, 'Recent accomplishments reflect the steadfast support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, whose visionary leadership serves as a beacon of inspiration. Equally, the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of ADFD Board of Directors, has been instrumental in enabling ADFD to provide vital support, enhancing the quality of life for millions of people worldwide and playing a key role in the development of more advanced and resilient societies.'In a global recognition of its leadership, ADFD received the 2024 United Nations Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Partnerships Award in the economic category for its renewable energy initiatives in the Pacific and Caribbean is the first time the award has been granted to an institution from the Middle East and North Africa a move that reflects its institutional development and forward-looking vision, ADFD launched its new corporate identity in 2024 under the slogan Shaping the Future Together, reaffirming its commitment to the UAE's vision for supporting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and building a prosperous, sustainable future for people around the on decades of impact, ADFD is advancing its global development mission, guided by an integrated and adaptive strategy that reflects the UAE leadership's forward-looking vision and ambition to establish the Fund as a globally recognised national institution in development work and a key supporter of the national economy. Aligned with the UAE's foreign aid policy, the strategy emphasises impactful development outcomes – both internationally and domestically – aimed at building prosperous, resilient societies for generations to come.


Gulf Today
29-05-2025
- Gulf Today
Taqa and Abu Dhabi Airports to enhance utility infrastructure
Taqa Distribution, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (Taqa), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Abu Dhabi Airports at the World Utilities Congress 2025 to explore opportunities to enhance the management of power and water infrastructure, and integrate cutting-edge technologies into the existing and future utilities networks across all airports in the Emirate. The MoU was signed by Omar Al Hashmi, CEO of Taqa Distribution, and Elena Sorlini, MD & CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, in the presence of senior officials and industry stakeholders. As part of the MoU, Taqa Distribution will explore leveraging its years of experience effectively managing Abu Dhabi's highly reliable public utilities network, proven track record of designing and building energy and cost-efficient utilities infrastructure, ensuring high standard of operational excellence in maintaining private-sector utility assets. Omar Al Hashmi said, 'The MoU allows Taqa Distribution and Abu Dhabi Airports to join forces to advance Abu Dhabi's vision of becoming a global aviation hub. Our core expertise in conceptualising, implementing, and operating utility assets will facilitate our seamless integration within Abu Dhabi Airports' operations, significantly enhancing infrastructural efficiency to better serve millions of passengers and support the Emirates' economic and logistical goals.' Zayed International Airport (AUH) benefits from collaborations with strategic partners like Taqa Distribution, focusing on sustainable and innovative growth. These partnerships bolster Abu Dhabi's commitment to increasing capacity and improving operational efficiency, ensuring its status as a premier gateway for the region. Elena Sorlini said, 'As the aviation sector evolves, utility resilience and sustainability are indispensable for long-term success. Partnering with Taqa Distribution allows us to bring private network operations up to public standards, ensuring flawless service delivery 24/7. Together, we are reinforcing Abu Dhabi's role as a destination of choice for trade, tourism, and economic diversification.' This MoU is set to support several key pillars of the Emirates' growth strategy outlined within the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. The modernisation and digitisation of utility services - powered by AI-enabled predictive maintenance and cutting-edge customer relationship management - will further align the Emirate's airport infrastructure with global best practices. On Tuesday Taqa Distribution, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (Taqa), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EMSTEEL Group, one of the largest publicly traded steel and building materials manufacturers in the region at the World Utilities Congress 2025 to explore the delivery of advanced, integrated utilities solutions across Abu Dhabi's growing industrial landscape. As part of the MoU, Taqa Distribution will explore customised, end-to-end power and water network management—including rapid integration with existing infrastructure, cost-efficient maintenance, and mobilisation of ready-to-deploy technical teams.