Latest news with #UICCA
Zawya
09-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE Circular Economy Council discusses policies to accelerate shift to circular models and expand biofuel production
Abu Dhabi: The UAE Circular Economy Council held its second meeting of 2025 at the Blue Biofuels factory in Abu Dhabi, chaired by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Council, in the presence of Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA). It was attended by council members from both the public and private sectors. The meeting reviewed proposals for the second batch of circular economy policies under the UAE Circular Economy Agenda 2031, targeting key sectors such as sustainable transportation, sustainable infrastructure, and clean industries. H.E. Bin Touq affirmed that, under the directives of its wise leadership, the UAE continues to adopt integrated and advanced national strategies and initiatives to drive sustainable economic and social development, in line with the principles of the circular economy and the objectives of the UAE Circular Economy Agenda 2031. Circular economy: A strategic opportunity to enhance economic growth His Excellency said: 'The circular economy is a key pillar of the UAE's new economic model for the next 50 years, which is built on more diversified and resilient economic components. In this context, we will continue, through the Council, to strengthen cooperation with relevant federal and local government entities as well as the private sector, to accelerate the development of UAE circular economy policies across four main sectors - manufacturing, food, infrastructure, and transportation - ensuring the optimal utilization of natural and financial resources.' Private sector's active participation in circular economy transition His Excellency emphasized the importance of the private sector's active participation in the national circular economy ecosystem, encouraging it to adopt cleaner production methods and technologies, reduce environmental pressures, and meet basic needs, in line with the UAE's vision of becoming a global leader in green development. Sheikha Shamma added: 'The circular economy is not just an environmental commitment; it represents a strategic opportunity to achieve long-term, sustainable economic growth. In the UAE, we believe in our ability to transform challenges into achievements, and we continuously strive to empower entrepreneurs and develop innovative solutions that turn waste into valuable resources. We will continue to strengthen collaboration with partners in both the government and private sectors to support policies that advance the circular economy, ensuring sustainable prosperity and environmental responsibility for future generations.' Initiatives to foster innovative circular economy projects The latest meeting of the Circular Economy Council focused on developing innovative policies and ventures, including economic models to support private sector companies operating in this promising field. The meeting featured a presentation on the legislative, regulatory, and national policy frameworks that underpin the UAE's vision for a sustainable and innovative circular economy, aligned with global best practices. The Council also reviewed a set of incentives and initiatives designed to encourage projects that enhance resource sustainability and promote the adoption of circular practices across all key sectors, fostering sustainable production and consumption chains. These efforts are part of the UAE's broader ambition to establish itself as a global hub for the circular economy within the next decade. Localizing innovation and technology in circular manufacturing Moreover, the meeting explored future directions for localizing innovation and technology in circular manufacturing, recognizing them as key pillars in the transition toward a more sustainable and resilient economy. The Council underscored the critical role these elements play in delivering advanced solutions for industrial processes, ensuring optimal resource utilization, minimizing waste, enhancing productivity, and reducing the environmental footprint of the industrial sector. Digital platform to support circular economy startups The participants also emphasized the importance of developing integrated digital platforms for the circular economy, particularly a dedicated platform to empower startups and SMEs operating across various segments of this sector nationwide. This initiative aims to support business growth and foster innovation in key projects that advance sustainability and ensure the efficient utilization of natural resources. Online marketplace for plastics The discussions also included a proposal for a specialized online platform for plastic materials trading, designed to facilitate safe buying and selling while promoting plastic waste recycling. This initiative aims to establish a digital ecosystem that supports sustainable growth and accelerates the transition to a circular economy. The Council reviewed a presentation by PepsiCo – MENA & Pakistan, highlighting the company's efforts in utilizing recycled plastics and exploring opportunities within this field. The meeting concluded by stressing the importance of strengthening the Council's partnerships at both regional and international levels, particularly in the areas of circular economy and climate technology. Participants underscored the value of exchanging best practices with experienced international entities and leveraging the global momentum around climate action to help shape national policies that support the transition to a sustainable economy. For further information, please contact: Orient Planet Group (OPG) Email: media@ Website:
Al Etihad
27-06-2025
- Automotive
- Al Etihad
In partnership with Amazon and 7X, UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators issues report on UAE commercial electric vehicles landscape
27 June 2025 12:31 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), in partnership with Amazon and 7X, has published a landmark report that includes a series of proposed policy recommendations to accelerate the adoption of electric light commercial vehicles (ELCVs) in the on broad consultation from key players across private and public sectors, the report was published during a UICCA-led panel session held at the Mobility Live Middle East conference in Dubai, which gathered sector experts from UICCA, Amazon, 7X's logistics arm EMX, and PwC, to discuss the report's key include creating dedicated charging zones for commercial EVs, standardising regulatory requirements and processes across the UAE, identifying circular solutions for battery recycling, and implementing incentives for EV findings are the result of expert discussions at a Policy Hack session hosted in May 2024 by UICCA, Amazon and 7X that brought together more than 50 representatives from logistics companies, EV charger operators, fleet operators, UAE ministries, and energy and transport authorities to identify challenges and potential solutions to electrifying delivery fleets. Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of UICCA, said: 'This report delivers a clear and actionable pathway to electrifying last-mile delivery in the UAE, a critical lever in the country's wider decarbonisation agenda. Grounded in input from leading experts and industry stakeholders, it reflects our commitment at UICCA to advancing pragmatic, high-impact climate solutions. Accelerating the adoption of electric light commercial vehicles is not only a carbon reduction imperative; it is an opportunity to reshape urban mobility, stimulate green investment, and drive the evolution of a smarter, more resilient transport ecosystem. Now is the time to translate these insights into coordinated action and build the enabling environment needed for systems-level transformation.'Prashant Saran, Director of Operations for Middle East, Africa and Türkiye at Amazon, said: 'This landmark report underscores the UAE's strategic position to lead the region's transition toward electric light commercial vehicles, driven by ambitious sustainability targets, and the rapid growth of online retail. At Amazon, we are aligned with this transformation, and we remain committed to supporting these efforts through a sustained public-private collaboration, targeted infrastructure investment, and scalable tech-enabled solutions, that advance the UAE's sustainability goals and our own commitment to net-zero carbon. The report details potential pathways for ELCV adoption in last-mile delivery, contributing to discussions about the future of logistics in the UAE and broader region.'Tariq Al Wahedi, Group Chief Executive Officer of 7X, said: 'Electrifying last-mile logistics is not just an operational shift; it is a national imperative. The Policy Hack has demonstrated that when forward-looking regulators, solution-driven partners, and fleet operators unite, we can accelerate the deployment of scalable EV infrastructure that meets the unique needs of the UAE's logistics sector. At 7X, we are proud to be part of this transformation through our logistics arm, EMX, committed to co-developing solutions that are efficient, inclusive, and sustainable.'The report and Policy Hack event are part of a wider project led by UICCA, 7X and Amazon to accelerate the adoption of ELCVs in the UAE in alignment with the UAE's National Electric Vehicles Policy. The policy aims to reduce energy consumption in the transport sector by 20 per cent by 2050 through collaboration between federal, local and private sector partners. The UAE also aims to increase the share of electric vehicles to 50 per cent of total vehicles by 2050. To discover the full list of recommendations for LCV electrification policies in the UAE, download the report via the link here.
The National
27-06-2025
- General
- The National
Sheikha Shamma opens collective to drive climate action through stories
Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan, founder of The Climate Tribe, opened the project's first physical home – The Climate Tribe Hub – this week. Tucked away in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the interactive space serves as a gathering point for climate storytelling, sustainable design, and hands-on workshops. Every detail, from tables made of date seeds to furniture woven from palm fibres, reflects the UAE's local materials and artisanal heritage. 'When we created the hub, we didn't want it to be a static space,' said Hind Al Ghseen, executive director of The Climate Tribe. 'We wanted the community to build it – to be part of it. We sought out local makers and brought them together.' A lifetime of work Sheikha Shamma is a passionate climate activist. 'It started for me when I was a student at Zayed University,' she told a room of climate advocates this week. 'My parents decided to go on a humanitarian trip to Mogadishu – I went with them. It was my first time witnessing the impact of a drought on a population.' That experience left a lasting mark. 'While studying business, I realised our economic models were missing something fundamental – the environmental cost. That moment changed everything for me.' Her other organisation, the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), focuses on policy and corporate alliances, but the Climate Tribe was designed to bring the conversation to a more personal, accessible level. 'It provides the human element,' she says. Global ambition with local heart Since its founding in 2023, The Climate Tribe has mobilised more than 2,200 people through grassroots initiatives, from tree-planting drives to recycling campaigns. In total, the group has helped plant 921 trees and divert more than 8,600kg of waste from landfill. Its blend of digital and physical tools – including workshops, tool kits and editorial storytelling – is designed to inspire both behavioural change and systemic action. According to Ms Al Ghseen, the launch of the hub represents a shift from online engagement to real-world collaboration. 'The Climate Tribe Hub is a true reflection of our values,' she said. 'From the materials chosen to the storytelling woven into every corner, it celebrates Emirati heritage and community craftsmanship.' Initially, the team looked beyond the UAE for climate stories. 'We were even planning to film in London,' Ms Al Ghseen said. 'But then we realised the UAE was full of untold stories – humble, impactful, and often overlooked. Sustainability here isn't always commercial. It's deeply personal.' The Climate Tribe's mission remains global – to bring international stories to local audiences and elevate UAE voices on the world stage. But at its heart, the aim is constant: to amplify hope, resilience, and solutions. When asked whether she believes the world is progressing quickly enough on climate, Sheikha Shamma didn't hesitate. 'No,' she said. 'There's still too much fragmentation. We live in a world of limited resources – we can't afford to be siloed. We need collaboration more than ever.'
Al Etihad
19-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
In partnership with UAE Ministry of Economy, UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators presents 10 finalists at Launchpad's Circular Economy Cycle event
19 June 2025 13:19 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Ten climate tech start-ups have presented pioneering circular economy solutions at the showcase event for the latest Circular Economy Cycle of the Launchpad, hosted in partnership with the Ministry of Economy by UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA).The UICCA Launchpad is designed to fast-track the growth of climate tech start-ups by providing access to funding, market opportunities, mentorship, and policy guidance. Each cycle targets a critical area of climate action, with this edition dedicated to advancing circular economy solutions that eliminate or repurpose waste across key sectors, such as food, water, energy, and ten participating companies were selected from over 150 global applicants based on the potential of their climate technologies. These include solutions in decentralised composting, textile upcycling, critical minerals recovery, industrial reuse, food waste management, and circular desalination. The showcase marked the culmination of an intensive three-month accelerator, during which the participants received expert mentorship, training, and stakeholder engagement opportunities intended to help them scale their solutions in the and CEO of UICCA, Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, said, 'True circularity challenges us to fundamentally rethink how our economy is designed, not just to reduce waste, but to regenerate systems and create lasting value. Through the UICCA Launchpad, we are backing the innovators who are turning this vision into reality. Their work is not only transforming industries but laying the groundwork for a future where sustainability and growth go hand in hand. Partnering with the Ministry of Economy allows us to amplify this impact and build the enabling environment needed for these solutions to thrive.'Assistant Undersecretary for Policies and Economic Studies Sector at the Ministry of Economy, Her Excellency Maria Hanif Alqassim, said, 'The Ministry of Economy is proud to serve as the official government partner of the UICCA Circular Economy Launchpad Programme. This initiative reflects the values we champion: cross-sector collaboration, support for scalable innovation, and the advancement of sustainable economic models. By uniting entrepreneurs, investors, regulators, and industry leaders, the programme aims to reshape our economic systems to be restorative by design. We look forward to working closely with UICCA, the private sector, and all stakeholders to turn this vision into reality.'The Circular Economy Cycle finalists included: Altera, Cauli, Circa Biotech, Desolenator, Excess Material Exchange, Food with Benefits, Novasensa, Terrax, The Waste Lab, and Yellow Octopus: Circular Solutions. These companies delivered live presentations to an audience of investors, policy stakeholders, and sustainability leaders from across the UAE. The UICCA Launchpad will continue with upcoming cycles focused on carbon solutions and climate adaptation, continuing to support the UAE's growth as a global hub for climate innovation.
Zawya
28-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
New Energy Investor Summit Middle East 2025 unites global leaders to accelerate green investments
This landmark event aims to bridge the gap between capital and renewable energy projects, spotlighting the UAE's pivotal role in the global energy transition and positioning Abu Dhabi as the Capital of Green Capital. Abu Dhabi, The New Energy Investor Summit Middle East 2025 convened at ADGM bringing together global policymakers, project developers, investors, and sustainability pioneers to catalyse investment in green energy and decarbonisation initiatives across the Middle East and beyond. This landmark event aims to bridge the gap between capital and concrete climate action, spotlighting the UAE's pivotal role in the global energy transition. The summit provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in high-level discussions, fostering partnerships and exploring investment opportunities in renewable energy, hydrogen, and sustainable infrastructure. The event attracted regional and global leaders in climate finance and energy transition at ADGM, positioning Abu Dhabi as the Capital of Green Capital. The summit, themed 'Bridging the Gap Between Capital and Projects', opened with a keynoteaddress by Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President & CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA). During the inaugural keynote, Her Highness stated: 'A substantial gap exists between the amount of finance needed to achieve our ambitious net zero goals, and where we stand today. Platforms like the New Energy Investor Summit are vital to unlocking capital, driving innovation, and strengthening collaboration. Similarly, initiatives like the UICCA's UAE Carbon Alliance, Policy Hack series, and its Launchpad programme, are all part of a broader effort to build a robust, inclusive climate ecosystem. By aligning public and private efforts, we can accelerate investment in clean technologies and advance carbon markets to support climate action – while growing the green economy.' Session 1: High-Level Dialogue on Global Policy, Regulation and Investment The first session explored national and regional frameworks that support decarbonisation and investment. The topics included the alignment of energy policies with international climate agreements and regulatory incentives to accelerate renewable energy adoption. Participants examined the role of financial regulators, as well as how national infrastructure planning can align with long-term decarbonization goals and efforts towards energy transition. Keynotes were delivered by H.E. Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of ADGM Registration Authority, and Horst H. Mahmoudi, Executive Chairman of Smartenergy, with expert insights from Dipak Sakaria (UAE Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure), Petra Schwager (UNIDO), Cornelius Matthes (Dii Desert Energy), Wael Almazeedi (Avance), and Hector Perea (XRG). H.E. Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of ADGM Registration Authority, said: 'The New Energy Investor Summit reinforces ADGM's position as a global leader in climate innovation and further solidifies Abu Dhabi's role as the home of Green Capital. As the world faces an urgent demand for climate action, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment where the need to connect investment with innovation, has never been more critical. Today, we are building the bridges that will link capital with climate solutions, align ambition with tangible action, and unite policymakers, investors, and innovators'. Horst H. Mahmoudi, Executive Chairman of Smartenergy, said: 'Our venture into the UAE is a strategic decision to place Smartenergy at the nexus of the world's emerging new energy hubs. Under its visionary leadership, the UAE is spearheading the worldwide push towards clean and renewable energy. We are committed to supporting these initiatives by catalysing green molecule markets. The New Energy Investor Summit is helping us to create a bridge between continents to capitalise on the emerging opportunities offered by the current renewable energy market.' Session 2: Transcontinental Synergies MEA-Europe This session explored strategic cooperation between the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and Europe in building integrated green value chains and achieving shared climate targets. Topics include transcontinental hydrogen corridors, harmonizing certification standards for green molecules, and the role of intergovernmental agreements in unlocking cross-border trade and investment. Speakers addressed joint R&D initiatives, infrastructure co-development, and the importance of political and international alignment to create predictable, long-term frameworks for decarbonization. Keynotes were presented by H.E. Lucie Berger, EU Ambassador to the UAE; H.E. Arthur Mattli, Swiss Ambassador to the UAE and Bahrain; and Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, CEO of Hydrogen Europe. Panelists included Capt. Saif Al Mheiri (AD Ports Group), David Smith (Marubeni), and Dimitrios Dimitriou (EMSTEEL Group), Siddharth Malik, CEO (Jindal Renewables) and Anas Aljuaidi, (Mannesmann Energy) who discussed cross-border collaboration and investment in clean hydrogen, infrastructure, and climate technology. Session 3: Supply and Demand – Scaling up Green Molecule Production The third session addressed the industrial-scale production of green molecules such as hydrogen, ammonia, methanol and sustainable aviation fuel (eSAF). As green hydrogen emerges as a pivotal solution in the global race to decarbonize, and given the increased demand for energy, this session explored the financial, technological, and geopolitical dimensions of scaling up hydrogen ecosystems. Keynotes were presented by Andreas Michael Feil, First Secretary, German Embassy UAE, Dr. Alejandro Rios Galvan (SAF Consultant), Andrès Isaza (Smartenergy). The panel featured Dr. Sami Kamel (Dutco Cleantech), Raghu Viswanathan (Smartenergy), Alexandros Kosmas, (Airbus), Pedro Amaral Jorge, (APREN) and Alexis Rostand (Eiffel Investment Group). Session 4: Bridging the Gap – Financing Mega-scale Green Molecule Projects This session delved into the critical financial frameworks and instruments needed to bring mega-scale hydrogen and green molecule projects from vision to reality. Speakers addressed the bankability of large-scale infrastructure investments, evolving risk-sharing mechanisms, and innovative financing models including blended finance, sovereign guarantees, and green bonds. The discussion highlighted how multilateral institutions, export credit agencies, and private capital can align to unlock billions in green infrastructure. With global demand for low-carbon fuels accelerating, the session explored how transparent regulatory environments and long-term offtake agreements can de-risk investments and catalyze global capital flows into the MENA region. A keynote was presented by Nabil Ayoun, Industrial Transition Accelerator (ITA). The panel featured Mohamed Hesham, (2PointZero), Gido Van Graas, (FAB), Maheur Mourali (the Arab Energy Fund), Karim Mourad, (ADIA) and Sami Neffati (Investcorp). A Platform for Action The summit underscored the UAE's leadership in advancing sustainable finance and innovation. It provided a vital forum for aligning policy, capital, and technology to accelerate the region's energy transition. With participation from global investors, government officials, and climate experts, the event fostered actionable dialogue on green project development, financing mechanisms, regulatory frameworks, and public-private partnerships. Panel discussions explored investment opportunities in green hydrogen, cross-border collaboration between the Middle East and Europe, and the role of private investment, technological progress and public-private partnerships in accelerating the energy transition. About the New Energy Investor Summit Middle East Organized by leading industry bodies and supported by regional authorities, the summit serves as a catalyst for sustainable investment in the Middle East. By bringing together key players in the energy sector, the event aims to facilitate the deployment of clean technologies and promote economic diversification and energy transition, aligned with environmental goals. Hosted by ADGM and Smartenergy, the New Energy Investor Summit Middle East serves as a premier platform for connecting capital with climate-positive projects. It aims to mobilise investment in renewable energy, clean technology, and decarbonisation strategies, supporting the UAE's vision for a sustainable, net-zero economy. The New Energy Investor Summit Middle East will be held annually. Next year's edition is scheduled for 15 April 2026. Smartenergy Founded in 2011 and located in Wollerau, Switzerland, Smartenergy focuses on investments in renewable energy and related ventures. We identify, develop and deliver green energy assets. We are a driving force in the ongoing transition of industry towards green energy, focused on the deployment of solar, wind, green hydrogen and Power-to-Liquid projects. We are committed to the potential of hydrogen and its derivatives such as eSAF for decarbonization where electrification is not possible. Beyond our headquarters team in Wollerau, we rely on our own local subsidiaries in all our focus markets. Local knowledge and proximity to industry stakeholders allow us to identify and secure opportunities at an early stage.
