Securing the future with green energy

The bottom line is that green energy — power that is sustainable, renewable and does not harm the environment — is not only socially responsible but also good business. In many cases, the return on investment in sustainable energy sources in long-term savings and operational efficiencies outweighs the start-up costs.

And consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable energy and goods and services produced in a responsible way because of increasing public awareness of environmental issues that directly impact them, such as climate change.

By hosting the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2011, the UAE is underlining its place at the forefront of the development of sustainable energy, a fast-growing international industry.

The summit is a business platform for the global development and commercialisation of renewable energy solutions. Its importance is underlined by the fact that it is being attended by a number of heads of state who are part of the 33 official delegations and more than 3,000 delegates.

The summit was opened by General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. In his remarks Shaikh Mohammad said: "The UAE is proud of its tradition of tackling challenges and working closely with the international community. Today, the world is faced with serious challenges, including finding scalable sources of clean energy, providing a fresh water supply and battling climate change."

Already a leading supplier of energy to the global economy, the UAE will be sharing its experiences researching, developing and implementing cutting edge renewable energy solutions through initiatives like Masdar City, a showcase of sustainable development technology.

By using its revenue derived from traditional fuels, despite having reserves that should last for many more decades, to invest in sustainable energy sources for the world the UAE is securing the future, not only of its people, but also the global environment.