Dubai

The government of Dubai has announced the Dubai Declaration 2017, reflecting what it calls its “relentless efforts” to make Dubai the epicentre of a new sustainable economy.

Unveiled on the final day of the World Green Economy Summit (WGES), the Dubai Declaration 2017, delivered by Saeed Mohammad Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa), summarised the achievements of the past years and commitments for the next year.

“As we work to further enhance Dubai’s position as a global role model for sustainability, we will be relentless in our efforts to deliver innovative solutions that contribute to the transformation towards a green economy,” he said.

Talking about Dubai’s future plans and aspirations, Al Tayer said that Dubai was continuing its “journey of excellence” by launching large-scale green projects.

“His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the world’s largest single-site concentrated solar power (CSP) project, based on the IPP model, with a total capacity of 700 megawatts (MW). Additionally, an innovation centre and research and development centre, equipped with the latest renewable and clean energy technologies are being developed,” Al Tayer said.

The project will form part of Dubai’s Solar Park.

“The country is also striving to achieve the Green Mobility Initiative in Dubai to promote the use of electric vehicles,” he added.

On the subject of green finance, Al Tayer emphasised that it was a crucial component of the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.

This strategy includes the establishment of a Dh100 billion green fund, with a view to financing projects in the clean energy sector.

The government hopes that through partnerships with financial institutions, the fund will be able to support green projects locally and internationally.

A joint collaboration between Dewa and National Bonds was announced yesterday to launch the green fund with an initial Dh2.4 billion.

Al Tayer emphasised that Dubai has always delivered on its promises as it continues its endeavours to become the global capital of what it calls the “green economy,” reinforcing, he said, its global position as a role model in partnerships and green finance.

“[Our leadership] recently announced its support for the UAE National Climate Change Plan 2050, to reflect the nation’s goals to become among the best-prepared country to combat climate change and achieve sustainable development,” Al Tayer added.

The UAE’s other major strategies, including the UAE Centennial 2071, the UAE Vision 2021, the Dubai Plan 2021, the UAE Green Agenda 2030, and the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 are seen as an attempt to set the course for continuous and diversified economic growth, and sustainable development.

“[The UAE National Climate Change Plan 2050] unifies our concerted efforts and enhances cooperation between the private and public sectors and will become a major element in the transition to a green economy. This is why the UAE has set an example for an economy based on solid public-private partnerships as part of its pioneering role to achieve environmental sustainability,” Al Tayer continued.

He went on to reaffirm Dubai’s engagement in global efforts to promote sustainability, energy security and the long-term protection of the environment.