Circular economy is a theoretical framework for business that aims to reduce waste and pollution by extending the useful life of materials and goods through techniques including lending, renting, reusing, repairing, and recycling. The circular economy’s guiding principles promote human welfare while also encouraging sustainable production, prudent consumption, and effective waste management. A number of notable countries, including the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom, have emerged as key advocates for putting the circular economy into practice.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently published its strategic plan to expedite the implementation of its circular economy policy across four pivotal sectors: manufacturing, food, infrastructure, and transport. The Circular Economy Council held its second meeting to discuss the most recent developments in this field, assess the goals, and get input from relevant industries. Under the guidance of Mariam bint Mohammed Al Muhairi, the esteemed Minister of Climate Change and Environment, the meeting witnessed the participation of eminent personalities such as Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Policy Committee of the UAE Circular Economy Council, alongside representatives from various ministries and corporate entities.
In order to achieve a state of net zero emissions, Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan emphasized the importance of integrating circular economy principles throughout many aspects of the economic value chain. Protecting limited resources, such as natural resources and precious metals, as well as promoting a worldwide system of circular trade will be required to achieve this.
The UAE has also supported 22 initiatives designed to hasten the country’s transition to a circular economy. These policies cover a number of important objectives, such as promoting environmental health, assisting the private sector in adopting cleaner production methods, and reducing the environmental impact on natural resources.