UAE Circular Economy Council Charts New Course For Sustainability

The UAE Circular Economy Council's first meeting, following its restructuring this year, focused on implementing the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2021-2031 to promote sustainability and efficient resource use.

The meeting, chaired by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Council, also aimed to align national efforts to transition to an innovative and sustainable circular economy model. The council reviewed proposed projects to advance the circular economy in the UAE, highlighting the need to finalize the first set of policies and begin work on the next phase.

Furthermore, it highlighted the role of the Aluminium Recycling Coalition in gradually transforming aluminum recycling operations in the country, WAM reported.

Al Marri said that the UAE is focused on building a comprehensive circular economy framework that involves launching national policies, initiatives, and strategies to support sustainable economic growth, aligning with the goals of the "We the UAE 2031" vision.

He said that the meeting marked a key step in advancing the UAE's shift to a knowledge- and innovation-based economic model, with the circular economy as a central focus. Efforts will include integrating innovation and digital transformation into circular economy initiatives and collaborating with federal, local, and private sector entities to implement the National Circular Economy Agenda.

This agenda, made up of 22 policies approved by the Council, aims to position the UAE as a global leader in the circular economy by the next decade.

"As we reach the midpoint of our 10-year strategy, this milestone offers us an opportunity to both celebrate our achievements and recalibrate our approach where needed," said Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President & CEO of UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA).

"The progress we've made is encouraging, but the road ahead demands even greater commitment, innovation, and accountability to clear measurable targets. We must not only set ambitious goals but also hold ourselves responsible for achieving them through transparent monitoring and regular reporting," she added.

Chairwoman of Landmark Group Renuka Jagtiani said the company's commitment to environmental protection is a shared responsibility, explaining that it started its sustainability efforts over ten years ago with Splash's sustainable collection.

Since then, the company has introduced various initiatives across its product lifecycle and operations to minimize its environmental impact and support the circular economy.