Latest news with #NetZero2050
Web Release
20 hours ago
- Business
- Web Release
REIMAGINING CONSERVATION THROUGH BUILDINGS: WHY BUILT ENVIRONMENT IS CENTRAL TO NATURE PROTECTION
As we mark World Nature Conservation Day this year, it's worth pausing to reflect on our natural ecosystems and the built environments that surround them, the cities we inhabit, the offices we work in, the hospitals we rely on, the data centers that power our digital lives and all other spaces, often taken for granted, are deeply entangled with the health of our planet. At Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI), we've long understood that buildings are not neutral entities. They consume over 40% of global energy and account for almost 40% of greenhouse gas emissions. Their design, operation, and management directly impact the quality of air we breathe, the biodiversity we protect and the resources we preserve. That's why we believe environmental stewardship begins at the structural level. From HVAC systems that optimize energy use without sacrificing comfort, to smart sensors that manage lighting, water, and airflow in real time, the future of conservation is increasingly digital. When we embed intelligence into buildings, we empower them to become active agents of sustainability. Nature conservation is no longer the sole domain of forests, oceans, and wetlands. It extends to rooftops, data centers, classrooms, and manufacturing floors. In fact, how we cool, heat, ventilate and secure these spaces could make or break our collective efforts to reach net-zero goals and biodiversity commitments. Johnson Controls is actively advancing this mission through tangible, measurable results. As of 2024, we achieved a 56% reduction in greenhouse gas intensity compared to our 2017 baseline, far exceeding our original 2025 target of 25%. This reaffirms our alignment with long-term climate goals such as the UAE's Net Zero 2050 agenda and the COP28 energy efficiency targets. But sustainability is more than just reducing emissions, it is also about how we operate and how we support the communities around us. Underscoring that smart and purpose-driven actions deliver lasting impact, in 2024 alone, Johnson Controls employees contributed over two million volunteer hours, with 84% of those efforts aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030. This clearly demonstrates that environmental and social progress go hand in hand. Moreover, we made significant strides in our own operations, achieving nearly 90% of our 2030 absolute greenhouse gas emissions reduction target. Today, across healthcare facilities, universities, airports, data centers and other mission-critical infrastructure, Johnson Controls is helping organizations cut emissions, increase resilience and align with environmental benchmarks. But our vision goes further. We see a future where every building, be it new or existing, contributes to conservation by design. World Nature Conservation Day is a reminder that sustainability isn't just about protection; it's about transformation that starts with rethinking the infrastructure we've already built. Through smart systems, responsible innovation and data-driven decision-making, the buildings of tomorrow can help heal the planet today. At Johnson Controls, we remain committed to enabling a future where every building is intelligent and sustainable, with a strong focus on environmental priorities, one building at a time.
Campaign ME
6 days ago
- Business
- Campaign ME
Why sustainability needs a rebrand
Sustainability is no longer a niche topic or an optional value add. It is a non-negotiable business imperative. But the way we communicate sustainability hasn't kept up. Many of today's brand narratives around environmental, social and governance (ESG) feel like background noise: Vague promises, generic imagery and language that lacks impact or trust. The communication gap isn't due to lack of interest; it is due to a lack of clarity and creativity. This is especially true in sectors such as food and beverage, where sustainability touches everything from packaging to sourcing to daily consumption. Governments across the region are setting clear benchmarks. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy are shifting the private sector's role from compliance to leadership. Meanwhile, socially conscious consumers are growing in number and influence. But, too often, the brand stories lag behind the actual progress. If sustainability is now part of the business model, it also needs to become part of the brand story. It must be embedded into how we design identities, shape messaging and engage audiences. So, what's holding brands back? 1. Vague words, missed meaning Terms such as 'eco-friendly', 'green', or 'planet-positive' are overused and under-explained. A more effective approach is to translate sustainability into real, personal benefits. Say the product uses 30 percent less plastic. Say the refill model saved 5,000 bottles. When the message is clear and the benefit is tangible, people pay attention. 2. Data needs storytelling Facts are not enough. Numbers require context. Instead of saying a plant-based meal saves water, equate it to the impact of skipping three showers. Instead of citing reduced emissions, translate that into a relatable everyday action. When data becomes human, it becomes powerful. 3. Reimagine the look of sustainability The visual language of sustainability is stuck in the past. Earthy tones, leaves and recycling icons once signalled purpose, but today they blend in. To stand out, brands must reinvent the aesthetic. Bold colours, unexpected typography, humour and cultural relevance can all convey sustainability without falling into cliché. 4. Purpose isn't a performance Consumers are increasingly sceptical of perfection. They want honesty, not moral superiority. Brands that acknowledge their journey build more credibility than those that posture. Transparency, humility and progress are far more powerful than virtue signals. 5. ESG needs to be participatory Whether it's social impact, environmental change or governance reform, audiences want to be part of the mission. Campaigns that invite participation, from community-driven challenges to co-created product lines, outperform those that speak from the top down. Sustainability shouldn't just be told, it should be lived together. 6. Governance deserves attention Sustainability isn't just about the planet. It's about how businesses are run and how people are treated. Clear governance practices, whether ethical sourcing, transparency in production or diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) commitments can and should be part of the brand narrative. These are not back-end strategies; they are forward-facing values. Across the GCC, we are seeing brands start to embrace this shift. Food brands are rethinking packaging not just for shelf appeal but for recyclability. Regional tech platforms are introducing energy-efficient features and inclusive hiring. Government-backed programmes are giving sustainability innovation a proper stage. But communication still needs to catch up. The opportunity is clear. A rebrand of sustainability doesn't mean just polishing the message. It means giving it emotional resonance, creative expression and cultural relevance. It means treating ESG not as a corporate social responsibility (CSR) checkbox but as a central pillar of how the brand lives in the world. For creative teams, this opens new doors. Designing for impact. Messaging with meaning. Building brand experiences that aren't just responsible, but remarkable. Because if the stories we tell about sustainability don't evolve, the world-changing work being done behind the scenes risks going unnoticed. The business case will be missed. And the public trust will erode. Sustainability needs a rebrand. Not for appearance, but for impact. By Karim Abou Rizk, CEO and Partner, WonderEight
ME Construction
22-07-2025
- Business
- ME Construction
WEMA and TAQA conclude technical visit to Denmark
Industry News WEMA and TAQA conclude technical visit to Denmark By In light of the pressure on utilities to do more with less, the cross-border knowledge exchange underscores a growing commitment to integrating innovation, efficiency, and resilience across regional water networks As the Middle East intensifies its efforts to address water scarcity, enhance infrastructure resilience, and meet sustainability targets, the Water Efficiency Middle East Alliance (WEMA), supported by the Danish Trade Council, has concluded a high-level technical visit to Denmark in collaboration with TAQA Water Solutions. The delegation, comprising senior executives from TAQA Water Solutions and Danish water sector leaders, engaged in practical and scalable discussions on wastewater reuse, circular economy models, and energy-efficient infrastructure. The visit also builds on a longstanding relationship between WEMA and TAQA Water Solutions. Since 2021, they have engaged in a series of joint workshops, feasibility studies, and knowledge exchange activities. Denmark's visit comes at a critical juncture as countries in the GCC intensify their investments in sustainable water strategies aligned with national mandates like the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, Net Zero 2050, and Saudi Vision 2030. Denmark provides practical expertise in areas such as wastewater reuse, stormwater resilience, and utility optimisation, which are increasingly relevant to the Middle East. In light of the pressure on utilities to do more with less, this cross-border knowledge exchange underscores a growing commitment to integrating innovation, efficiency, and resilience across regional water networks, the statement said. 'This delegation was more than a visit, it was a strategic exchange of ideas, technology, and shared ambition,' said Astrid SC Nielsen, the Danish Trade Council, Dubai. 'TAQA Water Solutions' commitment to innovation, coupled with Denmark's decades of water expertise, are the seeds for impactful, long-term collaboration.' The delegation engaged in discussions with Danish utilities, water tech companies, and research institutions, including site visits and roundtable discussions with prominent WEMA members like AguaGreen, Alfa Laval, Aquaterra, Grundfos, AVK, Danfoss, DHI, NIRAS, Sulfilogger, Watopi, and Aarhus Vand. Key themes explored include advanced wastewater reuse and sludge handling, energy-efficient pumping and treatment, data-driven smart water infrastructure, and innovative resource recovery and circular economy models. A dedicated session at BIOFOS Utility and Aarhus Water Utility shared practical case studies on sustainable operations and customer-centric water services. The visit showed potential for future technical cooperation and project development between TAQA Water Solutions and WEMA member companies. Key areas for follow-up collaboration included feasibility assessments for Danish technologies and joint exploration of impactful projects. TAQA Water Solutions highlighted operational focus areas like energy efficiency, sludge handling, large-scale pumping, and odor and infiltration management, presenting opportunities for targeted collaboration and innovation with WEMA member companies, the statement outlined. 'At TAQA Water Solutions, we have experienced firsthand how innovation profoundly drives comprehensive sustainability. It extends far beyond merely securing vital water and energy systems; it is the fundamental cornerstone reinforcing a resilient circular economy. This strategic imperative ensures that every precious drop is meticulously collected, expertly treated, and purposefully reused, thereby setting new benchmarks for responsible resource management and ensuring a water-secure future,' said Ahmed Al Shamsi, CEO of TAQA Water Solutions. He added, 'As part of TAQA Group's commitment to providing energy and water to communities worldwide, TAQA Water Solutions drives sustainable development and secures global water resources through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships in markets of growth. This visit exemplifies this mission, evolving beyond a technical exchange, profoundly deepening our shared commitment to advancing sustainable water solutions globally. We are grateful for the generous knowledge-sharing and the invaluable opportunity to learn from a community that has integrated sustainability into its daily life, underscoring our belief that innovation truly thrives through reciprocal collaboration.' WEMA's ongoing role is to bridge Danish expertise with regional priorities, ensuring that proven solutions are tailored to support local policy frameworks, operational needs, and sustainability goals. This visit marked a significant milestone in the deepening relations between TAQA Water Solutions and WEMA. It followed a high-level meeting in Abu Dhabi earlier this year, where opportunities for deeper collaboration were identified.
Mid East Info
21-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
WEMA and TAQA Water Solutions Conclude High-Level Technical Visit to Denmark to Advance Sustainable Water Collaboration
The Visit creates opportunities for future partnerships in energy-efficient and circular water solutions Dubai, United Arab Emirates – July 2025 – As the Middle East accelerates efforts to address growing water scarcity, infrastructure resilience, and sustainability targets, the Water Efficiency Middle East Alliance (WEMA), supported by the Danish Trade Council, has successfully concluded a high-level technical visit to Denmark in collaboration with TAQA Water Solutions. The delegation brought together senior executives from TAQA Water Solutions and Danish water sector leaders to exchange practical, scalable solutions for wastewater reuse, circular economy models, and energy-efficient infrastructure. The visit comes at a pivotal moment, as countries across the GCC intensify investment in sustainable water strategies in line with national mandates such as the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, Net Zero 2050, and Saudi Vision 2030. With a long track record in sustainable water practices and innovation, Denmark offers practical experience in areas such as wastewater reuse, stormwater resilience, and utility optimisation, areas increasingly relevant for the Middle East. With utilities under pressure to do more with less, this cross-border knowledge exchange reflects a growing commitment to embed innovation, efficiency, and resilience across regional water networks. 'This delegation was more than a visit, it was a strategic exchange of ideas, technology, and shared ambition,' said Astrid SC Nielsen, the Danish Trade Council, Dubai. 'TAQA Water Solutions' commitment to innovation, coupled with Denmark's decades of water expertise, are the seeds for impactful, long-term collaboration.' Highlights of the Visit: The delegation engaged with Danish utilities, water technology companies, and research institutions, including site visits and roundtable discussions hosted by WEMA members such as AguaGreen, Alfa Laval, Aquaterra, Grundfos, AVK, Danfoss, DHI, NIRAS, Sulfilogger, Watopi and Aarhus Vand. Key themes explored during these discussions included advanced wastewater reuse and sludge handling techniques, energy-efficient pumping and treatment technologies, data-driven smart water infrastructure for operational optimization, and innovative approaches to resource recovery and circular economy models. The program also included a dedicated session at BIOFOS Utility, Denmark's largest wastewater utility and Aarhus Water Utility, Denmark's second-largest utility, where practical case studies on sustainable operations and customer-centric water services were shared. Outcomes and Opportunities: The visit showed the potential for future technical cooperation and project development between TAQA Water Solutions and WEMA member companies. Several key areas were identified for follow-up collaboration, including feasibility assessments for Danish technologies in the region and joint exploration of potential projects to demonstrate impact and scalability. During the visit, TAQA Water Solutions highlighted key operational focus areas, such as innovating for increased energy efficiency, enhancing sludge handling, addressing large-scale pumping needs, and managing odour and infiltration issues, which present clear opportunities for targeted collaboration and innovation with WEMA member companies. 'At TAQA Water Solutions, we have experienced firsthand how innovation profoundly drives comprehensive sustainability. It extends far beyond merely securing vital water and energy systems; it is the fundamental cornerstone reinforcing a resilient circular economy. This strategic imperative ensures that every precious drop is meticulously collected, expertly treated, and purposefully reused, thereby setting new benchmarks for responsible resource management and ensuring a water-secure future,' said Eng. Ahmed Al Shamsi, CEO of TAQA Water Solutions. He added: 'As part of TAQA Group's commitment to providing energy and water to communities worldwide, TAQA Water Solutions drives sustainable development and secures global water resources through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships in markets of growth. This visit exemplifies this mission, evolving beyond a technical exchange, profoundly deepening our shared commitment to advancing sustainable water solutions globally. We are grateful for the generous knowledge-sharing and the invaluable opportunity to learn from a community that has seamlessly integrated sustainability into its daily life, underscoring our belief that innovation truly thrives through reciprocal collaboration.' A Shared Vision for Water Resilience: WEMA's ongoing role is to bridge Danish expertise with regional priorities, ensuring that proven solutions are tailored to support local policy frameworks, operational needs, and sustainability goals. This visit marked a significant milestone in the deepening relations between TAQA Water Solutions and WEMA following a high-level meeting in Abu Dhabi earlier this year, where opportunities for deeper collaboration were identified. The visit also builds on a longstanding relationship between WEMA and TAQA Water Solutions, through a series of joint workshops, feasibility studies, and knowledge exchange activities since 2021. As water demands intensify across the Middle East, partnerships like this are central to building future-ready water infrastructure. About WEMA: The Water Efficiency Middle East Alliance (WEMA) unites Danish expertise with regional decision-makers to pioneer sustainable water and wastewater solutions across the Middle East. Formed by the Danish Trade Council, WEMA aligns with strategic government initiatives, including Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, to address the region's critical water challenges. Through partnerships, innovation, and knowledge sharing, WEMA fosters resilient, future-ready water systems that support long-term sustainability and regional water security. WEMA's members include industry leaders such as Grundfos, Alfa Laval, AVK, AquaTerra, Danfoss, AquaGreen, NIRAS, Watopi, and DHI Group, along with Aarhus Water Utility and knowledge partners like Ferskvandscentret and Water Valley. Together, they tackle critical water challenges to support long-term regional water security and sustainability, in line with UN SDGs 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action). Snapshot of WEMA's traction to date: Established in 2018, the Water Efficiency Middle East Alliance (WEMA) serves as a collaborative platform bridging expertise between Denmark and the Middle East to address critical water and energy challenges. Its efforts began with a pioneering feasibility study with SEWA, alongside technical visits and workshops with Dubai Municipality, laying the foundation for impactful partnerships. In 2021, WEMA partnered with Abu Dhabi Sewage Service Company (ADSSC), (now TAQA Water Solutions) during EXPO 2020 to host a collaborative workshop. In 2022, feasibility studies for both TAQA Water Solutions and Ras Al Khaimah Wastewater Agency (RAKWA) led to deeper engagements, while the first IFAT workshop in Munich brought together Saudi water utilities e.g. ENOWA and National Water Company to exchange knowledge and best practices. Delegations to Denmark further strengthened regional connections, enabling discussions on smart water innovations and sustainability. Most recently, WEMA formalized a partnership with Dubai Municipality ahead of COP28 and launched the Danish Middle East Water Academy to focus on capacity building and education. Ongoing collaborations with TAQA Water Solutions and RAKWA highlight WEMA's commitment to supporting the region's vision for sustainable water and energy development through actionable outcomes and enduring partnerships. In Saudi Arabia, WEMA and ENOWA have solidified their collaboration through an MoU, focusing on joint efforts in optimizing wastewater management. About TAQA Water Solutions: Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, TAQA Water Solutions, previously known as SWS Holding, is a leading company specialising in sustainable water solutions to transform one of our most valuable natural resources, contribute to sustainable economic development and improve the quality of life. As part of TAQA Group, TAQA Water Solutions has a focus on providing innovative solutions to manage water resources and is committed to delivering world-class solutions that meet the needs of industries and communities. Aligned with the UAE's commitment to the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative and to the United Nations SDGs, TAQA Water Solutions acts as a catalyst for promoting smart and sustainable growth through the power of collaboration, mainly B2B and G2G partnerships. TAQA Water Solutions is the sole entity behind all wastewater collection, treatment, and reuse in the Emirate. With over 1,334 million m3 collected daily through an extensive ~13,600 km network supported by over 260 pumping stations and 41 treatment plants, the company works towards reducing the pressure on natural water resources and promote sustainability and value creation.
Time of India
17-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Gulf's waterless car wash revolution: How these services are saving millions of litres
Waterless car wash services are redefining sustainability in the Gulf, offering eco-friendly solutions amidst rising water scarcity concerns/Representative Image TL;DR: Waterless car washes are emerging as an eco-friendly and efficient solution across Gulf nations grappling with water scarcity. The trend is driven by environmental concerns, government sustainability goals, and changing consumer habits in cities like Dubai , Riyadh, and Doha. Startups and car care brands are capitalising on the opportunity, offering convenient mobile services that save water and time. With the GCC pushing green agendas like Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE 's Net Zero 2050, the market for waterless car washing is expected to expand rapidly. The Gulf's Growing Water Crisis and Car Culture The Gulf region is synonymous with luxury cars, from Lamborghinis cruising through Dubai's Sheikh Zayed Road to Rolls-Royces spotted in Doha. Yet, this thriving car culture comes with an environmental downside: traditional car washes consume thousands of litres of water per vehicle annually. In water-scarce regions like the UAE and Saudi Arabia , this is increasingly unsustainable. The Gulf countries rank among the world's highest per capita water consumers. With such alarming statistics, water conservation has become a national priority across the GCC. This is where waterless car wash solutions are making inroads, not just as a novelty but as a necessity. What Are Waterless Car Washes? Waterless car washing involves using specialised biodegradable sprays and microfiber cloths to clean the vehicle without the need for water. These sprays contain lubricants and cleaning agents that lift dirt and grime, allowing them to be wiped away without scratching the surface. The process not only saves water but is also faster and often more gentle on premium car finishes compared to high-pressure water jets used in conventional washes. Why the Trend Is Taking Off in the Gulf Several factors are fueling the adoption of waterless car washes in the GCC: Water Scarcity Pressures: Desalination provides most of the Gulf's water supply, which is energy-intensive and costly. Minimising water use is crucial. Government Sustainability Goals: Initiatives like UAE's Net Zero 2050 and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 emphasise reducing environmental footprints. Convenience: Mobile waterless car wash services are increasingly popular in urban centres, allowing customers to get their cars cleaned at home, work, or shopping malls. Economic Diversification: Startups and SMEs see eco-friendly car washing as a lucrative, low-barrier business aligning with national sustainability goals. Successful Examples Across the GCC Keno (UAE): Dubai-based Keno offers on-demand waterless car washes via a mobile app. This uses less amount of water per car, compared to 150 litres in traditional washes. Hiwash (Qatar): Hiwash offers a professional mobile car wash and wax services to its customers, all without water . The Business Potential in the Region The Middle East car wash service market is expected to grow significantly. With over 3.5 million cars in the UAE alone and Saudi Arabia's growing car ownership post the lifting of the women driving ban in 2018, the market size for car cleaning services is vast. As environmental regulations tighten, companies adopting water-saving practices could gain a competitive advantage. Environmental Impact Switching to waterless car washes can contribute significantly to water conservation. A traditional automatic car wash uses around 150 litres per wash, while a home hose wash can consume 300-500 litres. With waterless technology, this drops to under 1 litre, including the cleaning agents, which are typically biodegradable and non-toxic. Given that the GCC's renewable water resources are extremely limited, this shift could help conserve millions of litres of water annually. Governmental and Policy Support Several Gulf countries are also introducing policies and incentives to encourage water conservation: UAE: The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) runs campaigns advocating water conservation across sectors, including car washes. Saudi Arabia: The National Water Strategy 2030 aims to improve water sustainability, and industries are increasingly encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices. Qatar: The country's National Development Strategy 2018-2022 emphasised water efficiency, with new sustainability frameworks expected to continue this momentum. Consumer Response and Future Trends Consumers in the Gulf, particularly the younger, environmentally conscious generation, are driving demand for sustainable services. There is a growing awareness of carbon footprints and water waste, especially in the UAE, where Expo 2020 Dubai heavily emphasised sustainability themes. Moreover, the convenience factor cannot be understated. With traffic congestion and packed schedules, having a car washed at the workplace or home without water mess is a winning proposition. We can also expect technological innovations such as nano-coatings and eco-friendly waxes that reduce the frequency of car washes, further aligning with sustainability efforts. Risks and Challenges Despite the growing trend, the waterless car wash industry faces some challenges: Consumer Skepticism: Many car owners, especially of luxury vehicles, are concerned about whether waterless methods can adequately clean without scratching. Cost: Waterless services may be slightly more expensive than traditional washes, though prices are becoming competitive as the sector grows. Standardization: The lack of standardized products and techniques could lead to variability in service quality. FAQ Q: Is a waterless car wash safe for all car types? Yes, when done with proper products and techniques, it is safe even for luxury car finishes. Q: Does it completely replace water-based washes? For heavily soiled cars, occasional water-based washes might still be necessary, but for regular maintenance, waterless methods suffice. Q: Are the cleaning agents eco-friendly? Most reputable services use biodegradable products, but it is advisable to verify before booking. Q: Are there mobile apps for booking such services? Yes, app like Keno in the UAE allow users to book car wash services directly.
