The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) launched the ‘Green Industries’ environmental labelling programme to honour and encourage the industrial sector to find innovative pollution control solutions.
The programme is under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD).
It was launched during an event held at the headquarters of EAD in the Al Mamoura building by Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, in the presence of HE Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi.
Also attending were several representatives of government entities and strategic partners in the country, in addition to representatives of various industrial sectors.
In a speech given at the initiative’s inauguration event, Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri said: “This programme was created in support of the directives issued by the UAE and Abu Dhabi government in the field of environmental protection and sustainability of its natural resources, stemming from the diligent and continuous work laid down by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The late Sheikh Zayed’s legacy is continued by our wise leadership and the culmination of EAD’s consistent efforts to ensure the ongoing development in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is in accordance with the best environmental standards.”
The 'Green Industries' environmental labelling programme, a key initiative of the recently launched Abu Dhabi Industrial Strategy, encourages industrial facilities to apply the best environmental practices.
This is to encourage an increase in environmental compliance levels across all sectors by granting an 'environmental label' to those organisations with outstanding environmental performance.
A programme like this will help the country's broader aim of achieving the strategic initiative of Net Zero Emissions by 2050.
The innovative programme is tailored based on best international practices in the field of eco-labelling while taking into consideration the nature of the industrial sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
During the event, EAD bestowed honorary recognition on selected industrial establishments for their impeccable environmental compliance with environmental laws, legislation and conditions.
The honourary recognition was awarded to Emirates Global Aluminium, the world's largest ‘premium aluminium’ producer and the biggest industrial company in the UAE outside of the oil and gas sector.
The programme also includes an assessment category that distinguishes novel and innovative approaches by entities to protect the environment, promote economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for Abu Dhabi residents. Industries must adhere to criteria in all four categories to be recognised and awarded a ‘Green Industries’ environmental label.