Earth Day 2025: UAE marks milestones in environmental progress, protection

UAE solidifies its status as a global leader in sustainability this Earth Day.

The United Arab Emirates continues to solidify its global leadership in environmental sustainability through a diverse array of impactful initiatives, reflecting its enduring commitment to protecting the environment and advancing sustainable solutions.

As the world observes Earth Day on 22nd April, with renewed calls for climate action and environmental preservation, the UAE’s policies and projects—ranging from renewable energy and recycling to sustainable water desalination, afforestation, and clean transport—embody the essence of the day’s message and pave the way toward a greener future.

Major renewable energy projects leading the way

The country’s significant renewable energy projects, especially in solar energy, are at the forefront of the global adoption of clean energy. Masdar, a key national player, has developed several landmark initiatives, including Shams, the first concentrated solar power plant in the region.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, developed by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), stands as the world’s largest single-site solar park implemented under the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model. DEWA reported that by the end of last year, 17.8 percent of its total installed capacity came from clean energy sources.

Pioneering efforts in nuclear and circular economy

In parallel, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) has achieved exceptional milestones over the past decade, reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in the global clean energy transition and its goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

In the area of recycling, the UAE has promoted waste reduction and diversion from landfills, including pioneering efforts in e-waste recycling. The UAE Circular Economy Policy 2021–2031 serves as a comprehensive framework to ensure sustainable resource management and effective utilization of natural resources.

Commitment to environmental progress

Ahmed Baghoum, chief executive officer of Masdar City, stated that Earth Day reflects the UAE’s commitment to environmental progress through innovation and collaboration.

He highlighted that public-private partnerships demonstrate the UAE’s dedication to addressing global environmental challenges, citing specialised clusters such as the smart and autonomous vehicle industry cluster and the Food and Water Security Innovation Cluster.

For his part, Saif Humaid Al Falasi, CEO of ENOC Group, remarked, “Inspired by the UAE’s firm commitment to environmental sustainability and its bold goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050, we believe that energy conservation is essential to preserving our environment and ensuring a sustainable future.”

He reaffirmed the group’s dedication to raising awareness about energy preservation and contributing strategically to the UAE’s vision of a low-carbon economy and a healthier planet for future generations.