UAE President Sheikh Mohamed extends UAE’s Year of Sustainability into 2024
Head of state emphasizes nation's green vision on National Environment Day
President Sheikh Mohamed marked the 27th National Environment Day by extending the UAE’s Year of Sustainability into 2024. Emphasizing the commitment to “protect and preserve the environment for the benefit of future generations,” Sheikh Mohamed announced the themed Year of Sustainability on January 20 the previous year.
This extension follows a pivotal 12 months during which the UAE played a significant role in the international effort to address climate change. Hosting the Cop28 UN climate conference from November 30 to December 12, the UAE witnessed crucial progress in developing an action plan for a greener future.
In a statement, Sheikh Mohamed expressed, “On the occasion of National Environment Day, we announce that the Year of Sustainability is extended into 2024, reflecting our ongoing collective commitment to protect and preserve the environment for the benefit of future generations.”
Building on the momentum of the UAE Consensus achieved at Cop28, the President reiterated the commitment to working collaboratively with the global community for a more sustainable future.
The Cop28 conference resulted in the adoption of the UAE Consensus, urging nations to reduce reliance on fossil fuels to achieve net-zero goals by 2050. The summit showcased significant achievements, including the launch of the loss and damage fund and the mobilization of over $80 billion in climate finance.
The UAE has been at the forefront of sustainability efforts. In 2021, it unveiled the Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative, a Dh600 billion plan to invest in clean and renewable energy sources over the next three decades. The country became the first in the Gulf region to commit to net-zero emissions by 2050.
Substantial investments in clean energy infrastructure projects, such as the completion of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant’s fourth and final unit, have positioned the UAE as a leader in clean electricity. The Barakah plant is set to generate 25% of the country’s electricity needs for the next 60 years.
In December, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid inaugurated the world’s largest concentrated solar park project in Dubai, part of the Dh15.78 billion ($4.3 billion) fourth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. Covering 44 square kilometers with a capacity of 950 megawatts, the project aims to provide clean energy to approximately 320,000 households and reduce carbon emissions by about 1.6 million tonnes annually. The UAE continues to make strides in its journey toward sustainability and environmental stewardship.
