UAE President H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nayhan has declared 2023 the “Year of Sustainability”.
The announcement comes as the country prepares for COP28, to be held this year at Expo City Dubai from November 30 to December 12.
Taking to social media to share his message, the UAE leader said the nation would continue to support innovation in the sustainability sector by hosting COP28.
2023 is the Year of Sustainability in the UAE. Effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will. As host of COP28, we are committed to fulfilling our role as a global convener and will continue to support action and innovation in the field of sustainability.
— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) January 20, 2023
“Effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will,” Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed said in a statement.
“As host of Cop28, we are committed to fulfilling our role as a global convener and will continue to support action and innovation in the field of sustainability.”
The message comes one day after the end of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, which brought together heads of state, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, senior policymakers and youths to discuss sustainability initiatives and climate action around the world.
‘Year of Sustainability’
The “Year of Sustainability” will include several initiatives, activities and events that draw upon the UAE’s deep-rooted values of sustainability and the legacy of its founder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It will also focus on environmental sustainability by inspiring collective action through a nationwide commitment towards sustainable practices, in line with the UAE’s national strategy, bringing together everyone who calls the UAE home to work towards a prosperous future.
The “Year of Sustainability” solidifies the UAE’s commitment in addressing current challenges and promoting sustainable practices at an individual and community level. Notable examples include the “Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative”, which details the country’s commitment to promote environmental protection, and its efforts to create thriving communities ideal for living and working.
His Highness also emphasised that the Year of Sustainability has particular significance as the UAE prepares to host the 28th United Nations climate change summit, Conference of Parties (COP28).
The 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) focuses on key pillars — including the implementation of climate commitments and pledges, inclusion, working together to take concrete action and identifying solutions that contribute to overcoming challenges, and seizing opportunities to ensure a sustainable future for present and future generations.
Among the most important changes the UAE has implemented for the future is a ban on single-use plastics.
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