H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, recently headed the meeting of the Steering Committee of the Ecological Footprints Initiative at his chamber in the Ministry’s Dubai headquarters in the presence of committee members. The committee discussed the integration of the new ecological footprint indicator within the overall environmental strategy.
Welcoming the attendees, H.E Dr. Bin Fahad praised the efforts of all concerned institutions in supporting this national initiative which is considered as an indicator for the spirit of cooperation in tackling all environmental challenges faced by the UAE. He pointed out that this collaboration is a sign of a long-term joint work to achieve the objectives of the initiative.
During the gathering, the committee discussed the final report of the study undertaken within the transport sector to increase the efficiency of vehicle fuel consumption by defining a clear technique and policy to create a balance in the consumption of natural resources and encourage the use of eco-friendly products. In addition, it will motivate the private sector to develop and diversify their commercial activities so as not to rely too much on fossil fuel. More than 11 governmental blocs discussed the recommendations of the study which should contribute to the transformation to a green economy by encouraging dependence on the national program related to sustainable transportation. The study indicates that its results can lead to financial profits for private transport companies as well as contribute in lowering negative environmental impacts and enhancing air quality in the UAE.
The one-year study will be implemented in three stages. In the first stage, the current situation will be assessed to define the initiative’s goals accordingly. The second stage will study and develop various future scenarios, including the expected outputs to be evaluated by the participants after considering private sector feedback. In the last stage, executive policies will be studied for approval for integration within the government system.
The Steering Committee of the Ecological Footprint Initiative includes the UAE Ministry of Environment, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), Global Footprint Network, Emirates Wildlife Society in association with the World Wide Fund for Nature (EWS-WWF), Executive Affairs Authority, Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA), Federal Electricity and Water Authority (FEWA), Regulation and Supervision Bureau – Abu Dhabi, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE), Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence, Dubai Electricity and Water (DEWA), and the National Energy and Water Research Centre.