UAE President announces 2023 as ‘Year of Sustainability’

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has announced that 2023 will be the ‘Year of Sustainability’.

Taking to social media, Sheikh Mohammed said that effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will.

The announcement comes one day after the conclusion of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, which saw the participation of state leaders and officials from around the world.

Read: Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week: Energy security, strategies take centre stage at Global Energy Forum

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

The ‘Year of Sustainability’ will include initiatives, activities and events that draw upon the country’s values of sustainability and the legacy of its founder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, official news agency WAM reported.

2023 announced #YearofSustainability in the #UAE, themed: Today for Tomorrow#WamNews pic.twitter.com/DhfQBtB22W

— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) January 23, 2023

It will also focus on environmental sustainability by inspiring collective action through a nationwide commitment towards sustainable practices.

Furthermore, it bolsters the country’s commitments in addressing current challenges and promoting sustainable practices at an individual and community level, such as its Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.

Read: UAE reveals Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative

The year-long initiatives are being overseen by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court; and Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Mohamed said: “Sustainability has been a fundamental principle in the UAE since its unification. The nation continues to serve as an exceptional model for environmental conservation and resource management.”

“Today for Tomorrow embodies the UAE’s approach and commitment to sustainability and its responsibility to protect the future. By working, making efforts and initiating actions today, we are ensuring that we leave behind a legacy of stewardship for future generations, just as our ancestors did for us.”

The UAE President said that the Year of Sustainability has particular significance as the country prepares to host the COP28 climate conference. He invited community members and institutions to engage with related initiatives and activities.

Read: UAE to host COP28 summit at Expo City Dubai