Sustainability has become a paramount global concern, particularly in countries that prioritize human well-being as their guiding principle. This emphasis stems from the profound impact sustainability has on shaping a brighter future for our world.
The United Nations defines sustainable development as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
Sustainability encompasses numerous areas and diverse aspects. One of the most critical is environmental sustainability, aiming to safeguard natural elements such as the atmosphere and soil. It focuses on reducing carbon footprints, minimizing packaging waste, optimizing water usage, and promoting renewable energy sources. This concept strives to achieve equilibrium between human needs and environmental protection, leading to positive repercussions for current and future generations.
It’s no exaggeration to say the United Arab Emirates is among the pioneers in demonstrating a clear and ambitious vision for sustainable environmental development. It diligently seeks to harmonize economic growth with environmental protection.
If we delve into the roots of environmental sustainability in the United Arab Emirates, we find it deeply rooted in the vision of the founding leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his soul. He was truly the “First Man of the Environment,” the “Hero of the Earth,” the “Knight of the Desert,” and the maker of the green miracle in the Emirates, among many other titles bestowed upon him by international environmental organizations. This signifies the immense appreciation for Sheikh Zayed and his contributions to environmental protection. He prioritized environmental issues since he was young, considering this as a duty to honor his ancestors. He firmly stated: “We, who live on this earth today, are responsible for caring for our environment and wildlife. It is our duty to be faithful to our ancestors and our descendants alike”.
He, may God have mercy on him, understood with his insightful vision that sustainable environmental development could only be achieved through a collaborative effort between the government and individuals. He declared: “Environmental protection should not be seen as a concern solely for the government and official authorities. It is a matter that concerns us all. It is the responsibility of everyone, every individual in our society, citizens and residents alike”.
This environmental awareness in the Emirates has yielded significant achievements, as Sheikh Zayed himself remarked: “Despite being a young country, the United Arab Emirates has successfully taken significant strides in protecting the environment, combating pollution, and conquering the desert. The UAE has become a role model and an inspiration for countries that have challenged the harsh desert environment, preserving its purity, developing it, and fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between land and human beings”.
This approach, in fact, has served as a beacon for our wise leadership, which has developed pioneering development strategies to achieve sustainable development. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him, declared 2023 as the Year of Sustainability in the United Arab Emirates, under the slogan “Today for Tomorrow,” and it has been extended to continue in 2024. This step aims to raise awareness about environmental sustainability issues, encourage community participation in achieving sustainable development, and support national strategies in this field.
His Highness, affirming his unlimited support for environmental sustainability, stated: “The United Arab Emirates is a key supporter of everything that protects the environment and serves sustainability worldwide. It will continue its role in strengthening international environmental action, drawing upon its rich legacy and impressive track record in this regard”.
In line with this direction, we find a clear vision for sustainability by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him. He sees pursuing a path of sustainability as a continuation of a rich past and a tribute to the legacy of the founding leader. He said: “The path of sustainability is a fundamental pillar in the UAE, built upon the legacy of sustainability established by the late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his soul. We, in the UAE, continue to be guided by his vision and follow in his footsteps”.
The UAE has launched numerous initiatives and projects aimed at preserving biodiversity and the sustainability of environmental resources, maximizing the use of clean energy like solar, wind, and geothermal power, and employing environmentally-friendly technologies. One of the pioneering development projects in this field is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, which underscores the UAE’s commitment to clean and sustainable energy. Masdar City in Abu Dhabi is the world’s first zero-carbon and zero-waste city, and Dubai Sustainable City, the first of its kind in the region, offers ideal environmental advantages that achieve environmental sustainability and promote happiness among its residents.
To encourage this approach, our wise leadership has launched numerous awards that aim to enhance and support the culture of sustainability. These include the Zayed Sustainability Prize, a global award celebrating excellence in sustainability, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him. It is one of the most prestigious global awards in the field of renewable energy.
Another significant award is the Zayed International Prize for the Environment, established by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It is one of the most important prizes in the field of environmental protection, and many other awards promote sustainability in its various forms.
In conclusion, achieving sustainable environmental development is a noble goal that we all strive for. Each of us has a role to play in this mission. This can only be accomplished by raising awareness of the importance of preserving the environment for future generations, first through collaboration between governments and individuals and then through collaboration among all countries. Only then can we ensure a sustainable life for the present and future.
