BUILDING THE FUTURE
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SUSTAINABLE
GREENING THE UAE
INSPIRING SUSTAINABILITY FOR A BRIGHTER & CLEANER FUTURE
BUILDING The FuTure
CONTENTS ZIWIRA SPECIAL EDITION
Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan
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04 His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan The man of the Arab Environment, an extraordinary personality.
06 Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan A truly visionary leader who transformed the nation.
08 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Leading Dubai and the UAE to a sustainable future.
10 History of the UAE A journey through time, tracking the country’s green developments.
14 Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 UAE’s capital city has been making green strides.
18 The Emirate of Sharjah Sharjah is renowned for its highly educated ruler with a background in agriculture.
20 Sizzling, Sustainable Dubai The city where cultures collide. Dubai’s rapid growth has brought upon a new awareness of sustainability.
22 The United Arab Emirates Vision The UAE has masterminded a plan to become a world leader in sustainable energy, water and food production.
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uae VISION
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BUILDING The FuTure
Publisher Ziwira CEO and Founder Adam Merza adam@ziwira.com Editorial Saba Khan saba.khan@ziwira.com Nasreen Rasool nasreen.rasool@ziwira.com Zane Small zane.small@ziwira.com Marketing Nadir Khan nadir.khan@ziwira.com +971 56 7481747 Design Asif Habib asif.habib@ziwira.com Head Office Techno Hub Building, Office No. 161-162, PO Box No. 341171, Dubai Silicon Oasis, UAE. USA Office
SPECIAL EDITION 2015
EDITORIAL Sustainability is one of the most talked about subjects globally; moreo-
ver it has become the theme for most of the government projects in the UAE as the country has pledged to become one of the most sustainable
countries in the world by Expo 2020. The great visionaries and leaders of the UAE are leaving no stone unturned to realize this aspiration and
each of the seven emirates in the UAE are striving to do their best to make their cities energy efficient, enhance the waste management and disposal systems, source and use water in a more upright manner and
take appropriate steps to reduce their carbon foot prints considerably. With the introduction of new green building legislation and sustainable policies, UAE is bound to make its mark worldwide. While the legislation
is not a rating system like Estidama (used in Abu Dhabi), it is a way to improve and ensure that the way the buildings are being built reduces
the consumption of resources, which also includes use of more solar reflective material and planting different indigenous species.
This special edition of Ziwira is dedicated to the government of the UAE,
its visionaries and leaders and their remarkable efforts in making this dream come true.
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The Man of the Arab Environment
His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan FOUNDER & FIRST president of the united arab emirates
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On land and in the sea, our forefathers lived and survived in this environment. They were able to do so because they recognised
the need to conserve it, to take from it only what they needed to live, and to preserve it for succeeding generations.
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is Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founding father and first president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was popularly known as ‘The Man of the Arab Environment’. Under his leadership, the country saw significant green development activities that touched all aspects of life, ultimately aiming to improve quality of life for the existing population and future generations. Agriculture and afforestation were among his main concerns. In 2005, Sheikh Zayed was posthumously honored by UNEP with the Champions of the Earth Award due to his lifetime commitment to protect the environment of the United Arab Emirates.
One of His Highness’ most remarkable and enduring achievements was the greening of the region’s deserts. Under his guidance, 100 million trees were planted in the UAE. Using various irrigation techniques and the latest technology in desalination, sewage and farming, today the UAE produces 20% of the world’s date palms and myriad species of plants and flowers now flourish. During his rule, Sheikh Zayed banned hunting to protect the country’s biodiversity. He went further to create a sanctuary for endangered species, such as the Arabian Oryx and the sand gazelle on his own island reserve of Sir Bani Yas. In 1995, Sheikh Zayed received a gold medal from the Food and Ag-
riculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, for his agricultural development efforts in the UAE as well as other developing countries. In 1997, he was honored by the President of Pakistan with a special award for his role in environmental conservation. That same year, the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) presented Sheikh Zayed with the “Golden Panda” - WWF’s highest award. He also received the region’s first ever Gulf Business Award for Environmental Action. The UAE’s founding father died in 2004, while in his late eighties, leaving behind a legendary attitude toward sustainability that is still practiced in today’s leadership.
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The man behind the vision
His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan president of the united arab emirates
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The backbone of any improvement of governance, its development as well as its protection from any form of wastage or excessiveness, is a
mechanism to place laws under the microscope of revision and modernization until they resonate in tune with the methodological development and new administrative technologies.
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t takes a world-class leader to build and inspire a progressive nation. The UAE has been blessed and honored to have just that. His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan assumed the federal constitutional authority as president of the UAE and became the ruler of Abu Dhabi on the 3rd of November of 2004. His Highness was born in 1948 in the eastern region of the emirate of Abu Dhabi and received his primary education in the city of Al Ain. The president showed promising signs of leadership from a young age. On the 1st of February, 1969 His Highness was appointed as Crown Prince of the emirate of Abu Dhabi and head of its defense force. Assuming this position of leadership with great skill and prowess, he
played a key role in the development of the department, turning it from a small security guard force into a multifunctional force that is fitted with modern equipment. On the 1st of May, 1971, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa became the president of the first local cabinet for the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Following the declaration of the federal state, he later occupied in addition to his local responsibilities the post of Vice President of the cabinet of the federal government, which was formed in December of 1973. One of the major development initiatives of profound social impact made by His Highness is the establishment of social services and commercial buildings department, which is commonly known as “Sheikh Khalifa Committee”. He has also ini-
tiated several other visionary goals for the country in terms of sustainable development. Part of the country’s national agenda is to improve air quality, conservation of natural resources and increase the use of clean energy in an attempt to create a better life for all. Sheikh Khalifa was named as one of Forbes’ 50 most influential figures in the world, proving the significance of his personal efforts in advancing the UAE onto the global stage. It was under His Highness’ great leadership that the UAE won the rights to host Expo 2020. He has also achieved unprecedented leaps in human development, particularly health care and education, by virtue of his successful strategies and vision for the UAE.
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L e a d i n g t h e UA e to a s u s ta i n a b l e f utu r e
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum prime minister & vice president of the united arab emirates
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Apart from the emergency aid we provide to alleviate the sufferings of victims of natural disasters, calamities and crises, we worked for
transforming U.A.E charity activities into an institutional activity with
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an aim of making them more effective and sustainable.
is Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Prime Minister and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates, and the Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Mohammed is responsible for Dubai’s rapid transformation to become the international mega-city that it is today. His Highness was born on July 15 1949, the third of four sons. He was privately tutored as a child, until attending the Bell School of Languages at Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. He is well-known for his love of poetry and horse riding. Sheikh Mohammed was crowned Prince of Dubai in 1995, and was named Ruler of
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Dubai, Prime Minister, and Vice President of the UAE after the death of his brother in 2006. He was the mastermind behind projects such as the Burj Khalifa Tower, the Burj alArab Hotel, and the Palm Islands, all of which have influenced Dubai to become a luxurious resort and business destination. Thanks to his vision, Sheikh Mohammed has competently authored the Dubai success story in record time and put the United Arab Emirates on a unique course, which nations around the world compete to replicate. Sheikh Mohammed’s book ‘My Vision’ describes his philoso-
phy and his political and economic vision. He also offers a detailed account of how Dubai and the UAE have been guided to their present day status as international centers, renowned for their high quality commercial and financial services, luxury tourism, and their drive towards sustainable human and structural development. Through innovation, generosity, and dedication, Sheikh Mohammed has achieved notable success while shouldering the great responsibility of leading Dubai and the Federal Government.
9
h
ISTORY OF THE
UAE
The UAE today is a very different place from when it was founded.
1970 1975 Bur duBai
duBai
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t the time the nation’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed was born, the emirate was poor and undeveloped, with an economy based primarily on fishing, pearl diving and simple agriculture. The first cargo of Abu Dhabi crude oil was exported in 1962, and the oil revenues were spent on the service of the people, a massive construction program for schools, housing, hospitals and roads. The following timeline maps some of the milestones in the history of the UAE from 1971 till the present.
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-Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
CloCK ToWer deira
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We, in the UAE, have no such word as “impossible”; it does not exist in our lexicon. Such a word is used by the lazy and the weak, who fear challenges and progress. When one doubts his potential and capabilities as well as his confidence, he will lose the compass that leads him to success and excellence, thus failing to achieve his goal. I require you, youth, to insist on number one.
sheiKh ZaYed road
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sheiKh ZaYed road
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The uae is forMed
1971
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The Tallest Building in the World
BURJ KHALIFA
December 2, 1971 -----Seven states join a federation to form the UAE. In the same year, the Federal National Council (the state’s parliament) is formed and H.H Sheikh Zayed elected as President of the UAE.
1975 -----Higher Environment Council is established.
1983 -----First UAE hunting law is passed.
1991 -----Emirates Environmental Group is formed. An NGO dedicated to protecting the environment through education, action and community involvement.
1998 -----e-Government Initiative is launched and UAE government sets out to become completely digital by 2015.
2000 -----Establishment of the Federal Law for Protection and Development of the Environment.
2004 -----The UAE’s first president, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, dies and his eldest son, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, succeeds as Emir of Abu Dhabi. In accordance with the constitution, the UAE’s Supreme Council of Rulers elects Khalifa as president.
2006 ------ Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum assumes the role of Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, following the death of his brother, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum. - The first-ever national elections are held in the UAE, during which a small number of hand-picked voters choose half of the members of the Federal National Council. - Emirates Green Building Council formed - Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s Future Energy Company is established.
ABU DHABI MOSQUE
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2007 ------ A second telecommunications operator is launched to compete with previous monopoly.
- Abu Dhabi announces that its hotels will go green by reducing carbon emissions, water and energy consumption, and waste to landfills.
2013 ------
- Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 is launched as a roadmap to transform ing the economy and environment.
- Dubai wins the bid to host World Expo 2020.
2008 – 2010 ------
- Abu Dhabi wins approval to host EcoCity World Summit in October 2015, based on its impressive sustainability efforts.
Dubai suffers from a significant economic crisis.
2014 ------
2008 ------ Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s Future Energy Company is established and embarks on a journey to develop the world’s most sustainable eco-city. - Estidama Sustainability Programme is launched by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council and green building regulations become mandatory.
World Green Economy Summit is hosted by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) in association with World Climate Ltd.
2015
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The UAE sends the world’s first solar powered plane on a trip around the world.
2009 -----UAE becomes official headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
2010
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- H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktroum, announces the UAE Vision 2021, which aims to make the country one of the best in the world.
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ABU DHABI’s Vision 2030 guide to a sustainable future UAE’s federal capital city has been making green strides and has a plan for an even greener future.
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iven its vast expanses, thriving economy and competent leadership, Abu Dhabi suits its role as the capital city of the UAE quite well. With the city’s population estimated to
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grow to around five million by 2030, the government has devised the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, as a guideline for sustainable advancement toward the future that awaits. The ultimate goal is to make Abu Dhabi a great place to
live by creating a sound economy, and an environment that respects the past while setting new sustainable standards for the future.
uRBan planning The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council has formulated a plan to optimize the city’s development through a 25-year program of sustainable urban evolution. It includes intricate details, covering every aspect of urban life from pedestrians, to transport, street lights, placement of benches and traffic signs, all to world class standards. As part of the long-term plan, the introduction of trams to the emirate by 2020 aims to reduce the number of cars on the roads. At the core of this vision is Estidama, which is the Arabic word for ‘sustainability’. Estidama as a policy program began in 2010 and ensures a holistic approach to sustainable development in the emirate. It subscribes building developers to a green code of conduct, and its Pearl rating system is now mandatory for all new projects.
ecOnOmic visiOn 2030 Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030 aims for a sustainable knowledge-based economy that is value-added and diversified. It takes into account the Emirate’s resources and the steps that need to be taken to ensure these can accommodate future economic growth. By 2030 Abu Dhabi intends to build an economy that is well integrated into the global economy and able to provide more accessible and higher-value opportunities for all its citizens and residents. So far, the city has seen economic diversification in terms of media, healthcare and aviation among other sectors.
masdaR Giant steps have been taken in shifting the economic focus from oil to renewable energy. One of these efforts was the establishment of Masdar, meaning ‘The Source’. Masdar is essentially the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, wholly committed to cleaner, more sustainable energy innovations and solutions. It is one of the few companies in the world that is actively producing real solutions to the world’s climate change problem. The company as an entity invests regularly in renewable energy solutions both locally and in developing countries such as Egypt. The Masdar Institute trains young scientists and engineers in this field of green energy, who are pioneering advanced energy and sustainable technologies. Deeply concerned with environmental sustainability, the company is also working on Masdar City, which will be a residential area completely run on solar and other renewable energy sources.
FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI
SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE
EMIRATES PALACE ABU DHABI
» On the shores of Yas Island is the perfect weekend destination
» The main dome is the largest mosque dome in the world: 85 metres high with a diameter of 32.8 metres.
» Seven star luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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enviROnment visiOn 2030 The Abu Dhabi Government runs several initiatives and awareness programs to promote greater environmental appreciation and conservation of wildlife and marine resources in the Emirate. The five priority areas of Environment Vision 2030 include: Minimizing impact of climate change Ensuring clean air and limited noise pollution contributing to safe and healthy living conditions Efficient management and conservation of water resources Preservation of habitats, biodiversity, and cultural heritage Optimized material flows and waste management The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD), was established in 1996 to protect and enhance air quality, groundwater as well as the biodiversity of the desert and marine ecosystems. By partnering with other government entities, the private sector, NGOs and global environmental agencies, the organization seeks to raise environmental awareness, facilitate sustainable development and ensure environmental issues remain one of the top priorities of the national agenda.
ABU DHABI
The fourth most expensive city for expatriate employees in the region and in 2014 was the 68th most expensive big city in the world.
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educatiOn The concept of sustainability has also filtered through to Abu Dhabi’s education system. Through the Sustainable School’s Initiative, schools, teachers and students are empowered to make positive environmental changes within their school. They are provided with training and resource materials to assess their own environmental impact, and also encouraged to establish eco clubs and exposing students to experiential learning through hands-on educational field trips. The ultimate goal is perfectly in line with Vision 2030: To inspire a love for the Earth in today’s youth, who will be leaders of the future.
aBu dHaBi sustainaBility Week An Abu Dhabi government initiative, ADSW is the largest gathering on sustainability in the Middle East and a significant forum in stimulating international dialogue and action. Held annually at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center, and hosted by Masdar, the event brings together thousands of delegates, and visitors with the common interest in finding solutions for sustainable living. Conferences topics usually include water conservation, renewable energy, waste management and more.
LEADING THE DEBATE ON FUTURE ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY ABU DHABI - THE MEETING PLACE FOR WORLD LEADERS
His HigHness geneRal sHeikH mOHamed Bin Zayed al naHyan Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
His HigHness sHeikH kHaliFa Bin Zayed al naHyan He was elected President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi by the Supreme Council on November 3, 2004. He is the first Prime Minister of the Abu Dhabi government.
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siZZling, sustainaBle duBai Dubai is a city where cultures collide, and dreams are realized. With a current population of 2 and a half million, the city is growing rapidly, predicted to reach 3 and a half million in six years’ time. This growth rate has brought upon a new awareness of sustainability in the city.
DUBAI
doWnToWn duBai
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ubai is arguably the most internationally recognized destination in the United Arab Emirates. It has become famously cosmopolitan, with approximately 85% of the population being expatriates. The city boasts the Burj Khalifa which is the tallest
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building in the world, and is widely recognized for the awe inspiring Palm Islands, which required 94 million cubic meters of sand. Not only is Dubai stunning to behold, it is also internationally renowned for its efforts to become a sustainable destination. Dutch consul-
tancy firm Arcadis ranked Dubai as the 33rd most sustainable city in the world, and the number 1 most sustainable city in the region. Dubai has pledged to be among the top 10 most sustainable cities in the world by 2020.
duBai gOing gReen Dubai has successfully established itself as a city that clearly recognizes the importance of sustainability. With water in short supply, and an abundance of sun, Dubai is working towards recycling and appreciating water, and making the most of solar power. Below are some of the ways this is being done. Dubai has been named the most sustainable city in the region, according to the Sustainable Cities Index developed by the building asset consultancy firm Arcadis. Dubai has pledged to be among the top 10 most sustainable cities in the world by 2020. Dubai is host to Solar Middle East, which was held this year in March at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre. The event is the most comprehensive gathering of solar technology suppliers in the region and provides an unrivalled opportunity to witness the latest developments in solar. Dubai based company Diamond Developers focuses on properties and busi-
nesses that not only provide economic and aesthetic value, but minimize their impact on the environment, both social and geographic. The company is developing The Sustainable City which is predicted to be finished this year. It will be the first Net Zero Energy city in Dubai. All water in the city will be 100% recycled. There will be ‘biodome’ greenhouses, an organic farm and individual garden farms for local food production. There will be a Sustainable Engineering and Research Institute and Training Centre for sustainable practices, and a nature inspired ‘Green School’ from Kindergarten to Grade 12. The Dubai Water & Electricity Authority (DEWA) has an excellent reputation in relation to sustainability. The organization continuously strives in an economic and efficient way to effectively preserve the environment.
DEWA participated in the World Future Energy Summit 2015, which explores growing investment opportunities in the clean energy sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). DEWA has invited the public initiatives such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which is a major project overseen by the Supreme Council of Energy and supervised and managed by DEWA. DEWA hosted the annual Smartech as part of the 17th Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition (WETEX 2015), focusing on the global challenges in the environment sector.
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Real estate Envisaged as a premium lifestyle community, Dubai Hills Estate is a new city within the city development by Emaar Properties and Meraas Holding. Designed to the highest standards of sustainability, Dubai Hills Estate will significantly contribute to the economic and social development of Dubai. Damac Properties the real estate giants announced two more green projects to be launched this year, adding another feature to their already impressive portfolio. Akoya Oxygen and the Dubai Rain Forest are the two major projects that will definitely add to the sustainability and luxury quotient of Dubai. Dubai based company Diamond Developers focuses on properties and businesses that not only provide economic and aesthetic value, but minimize their impact on the
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environment, both social and geographic. The company is developing The Sustainable City which is predicted to be finished this year. It will be the first Net Zero Energy city in Dubai. All water in the city will be 100% recycled. There will be ‘biodome’ greenhouses, organic farm and individual garden farms for local food production. There will be a Sustainable Engineering and Research Institute and Training Centre for sustainable practices, and a nature inspired ‘Green School’ from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
RTA is responsible for planning and providing the requirements of transport, roads & traffic in the Emirate of Dubai, and between Dubai and other Emirates of the UAE. The Dubai organization is determined to provide sustainable solutions to transport in the busy city.
RTA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Liberty Automobiles for a trial run of an electricity-powered bus for nine months so as to measure the effectiveness and competency of running such a vehicle as part of the bus fleet.
Hybrid cars, powered by petrol and electricity, are a part of Dubai Taxi’s fleet as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) drives ahead with its green transport solutions. The project is carried out under a partnership with Al Futtaim Motors, who are providing the vehicles and taking care of the maintenance and monitoring of the vehicles.
Electric Abras are an environmentally friendly alternative to the traditional motorized Abras. They are becoming popular with the tourists and the RTA plans to expand its network even more by the end of this year.
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tHe emiRate OF sHaRjaH The Emirate of Sharjah covers 2.6 billion square miles of the UAE area, and represents about 19% of the total UAE population. Sharjah is highly respected as the ďŹ rst Emirate to provide education for women, and also renowned for its highly educated ruler with a background in agriculture.
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he Ruler of Sharjah, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, was born on 2 July 1939, in Sharjah. He was educated in Sharjah, Kuwait, and Egypt, which gave him a wide range of cultural exposure and education. He was taught English at the age of nine. After com-
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pleting his elementary and secondary education, in 1965 he travelled to Cairo to complete his higher education. His Highness holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering from Cairo University, Egypt; a Doctor of Philosophy with Distinction in History from the University of Exeter, UK; and a Doctor
of Philosophy in Political Geography from Durham University, UK. Today, His Highness is a member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates, the Ruler of Sharjah, and President of the American University of Sharjah.
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi The Ruler of Sharjah
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It is more necessary than ever today to restore the spirit of humanity in
people, and inculcate in them moral and cultural values.
Sharjah Going Green
Sharjah’s environment sector is expected to grow by 15% to almost AED1 billion by 2016, up from 2014 with AED780 million, powered by a portfolio of groundbreaking eco-tourism projects currently under way.
The American University of Sharjah established the Sharjah Sustainability Award three years ago. The award aims to strengthen the principle of partnership in environmental work as a fundamental pillar in supporting Sharjah’s strategic project in preserving the environment. It was launched by the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority (SEPAA) and the Environmental Education and Awareness Committee.
The Sharjah Water & Electricity Authority (SEWA) has conducted a project within the framework of SEWA policy, to exploit the feasibility of natural gas as an efficient fuel, which is the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) as fuel for vehicles instead of petrol – this will help to decrease CO2 emissions.
In addition to the education of sustainability in Sharjah, the University of Sharjah offers a Sustainable and Renewable Engineering program. Focusing on design, development, implementation, and improvement of integrated sustainable energy systems.
In 1995, SEWA established “Zulal Water Factory” as an unprofitable government organization to produce quality bottled fresh water with best international standards and specifications.
The company Bee’ah was founded in 2007 as an environmental management company in Sharjah, with the intention of becoming the Environmental Capital of the Middle East and making Sharjah the first Arab city to reach Ze-
Often overshadowed by its mighty neighbors, Sharjah has proven its worth as an Emirate that is shining through with innovative projects to ensure a sustainable future.
ro-Waste to Landfill by diverting 100% of its waste through recycling and conversion. The organization provides sustainable solutions in environmental resource management, including Integrated Waste Management, Public Cleansing, Environmental Consulting, Education & Awareness, Renewable Energy, Facilities Management, and Sustainable Development. The Bee’ah School of Environment has shortlisted 20 outstanding environmentally sustainable projects from participating schools for the second ‘Sharjah Environment Awareness Award’. The competition is designed to help school teachers coach pupils on environmental responsibility using Bee’ah School of Environment programs and activities
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The United Sustainable Emirates The United Arab Emirates has an outstanding reputation around the world, as one of the most forward-thinking, culturally diverse, and developed nations. With massive cosmopolitan centers such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the UAE has a global spotlight on it to provide innovative, sustainable ways to produce power, fresh water, and food.
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uae visiOn 2021 The UAE Vision 2021 was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, at the closing of a Cabinet meeting in 2010. The Vision charts the next stage of the UAE, leading up to 2021, when the nation celebrates its golden jubilee. The Vision is guided by the National Work Program launched by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and adopted by Their Highnesses
the Rulers of the Emirates and Members of the Federal Supreme Council. The UAE Vision 2021 National Agenda primarily focuses on improving the quality of air, preserving water resources, increasing the contribution of clean energy, and implementing green growth plans. It also stresses the importance of infrastructure, aiming for the UAE to be among the best in the world in the quality of airports, ports, road infrastructure, and electricity.
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uae gReen initiatives WORLD The UAE has supported Earth Hour since 2008. The aim of Earth Hour 2015 in the UAE was to increase awareness of climate change by being more energy efficient.
development in the Middle East and North Africa, driving higher regional standards in the outdoor construction and design industry.
The United Arab Emirates participated in the World Water Forum in the Republic of Korea in April 2015.
France will join the UAE to provide low-cost finance to renewable energy projects in developing countries. The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) and France’s L’Agence Francaise de Development will jointly study project proposals and extend financial support to suitable projects.
The UAE’s developers are setting the pace for sustainable
ENVIRONMENT The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) is dedicated to protecting the environment through means of education, action programs, and community involvement. EEG aims to contribute towards the advancement of sustainable development in the UAE by acting as a focal point for people concerned with environmental protection and responsible waste management.
TRANSPORT The Roads & Transport Authority of Dubai presents the Dubai Award for Sustainable Transport. The awards are open to organizations of all sizes and types provided they are based in the UAE. In February, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) launched 16 charging stations around the emirate, to promote the use of electric vehicles.
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sustainaBility in tHe emiRates Even the smaller Emirates are doing their part to maintain the UAE’s exceptional reputation as a Green Nation.
UAE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND WATER
AJMAN The Ajman Municipality and Planning Department is responsible for health, safety, and the environment. The organization works to preserve the environment, and prevent pollution.
RAS-AL-KHAIMAH In January 2014, the Ras-AlKhaimah Free Trade Zone Authority received the prestigious Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) award for the Best Environmental Practices in the Emirate. The RAK FTZ’s environmental and social sustainability mission is to attract and maximize the growth and number of knowledge-based, uniquely innovative businesses located in Ras-Al-Khaimah.
UMM-AL-QUWAIN Emaar Properties have developed villas on the shores of Khor Al Beidah, designed to have a minimal impact on the natural ecosystem.
ministRy’s gOals • Enhance the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) to ensure sustain ability • Enhance environmental sustainability • Prevention of agricultural pests and epi demic livestock diseases • Enhance food safety and the sustainabil ity of the local production
FUJAIRAH The Fujairah Municipality’s mission is to provide advanced infrastructure, sustainable environment and excellent services through human resources. Wadi Al Wiraiah is a Natural Reserve developed by Fujairah Municipality in collaboration with Emirates Wildlife Society and the World Wide Fund for Nature.
uNITeD arab emIraTeS
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UAE FACTS There are no rivers in the UAE. The main source of drinking water in Abu Dhabi is desalinated sea water. The Dirham was only introduced in 1973. Until 1966, U.A.E (then known as Trucial States) used the Gulf Rupee, which was issued by the Government of India and was equivalent to the Indian rupee. The UAE’s oil reserves are the fourth largest in the world, yet its leaders have identified that water is more important than oil and are constantly progressing water conservation efforts. The UAE has the second largest and most diversified economy in the GCC.
In 2011 the Human Development World Report ranked the UAE 30th among 187 countries Between 1981 and 2012, non-oil trade grew by 28 times.
Dubai International Airport overtook London’s Heathrow in 2014 as the busiest in the world. Four decades ago, only 48% of UAE adults were literate. Today over 93% are literate, with nearly equal rates for men and women. Carbon dioxide emissions per capita declined from 80 metric tons per capita in 1971 to 31 metric tons per capita in 2007.