Shaping a Low-Carbon Future: Emirates Environmental Group Hosts Key Dialogue on Climate Innovation
The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) concluded its fifth and final Panel Discussion of the year with a high-impact session titled “The Carbon Reality: Understanding Market, Offset, Capture & Credit.” Held at Dubai Chambers, the event gathered sustainability experts, government representatives, corporate leaders, academics and students to explore the evolving carbon management landscape and the pathways toward scalable climate action in the UAE and the wider region.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi highlighted the urgency of reducing global emissions, citing the UNFCCC Synthesis Report (2023), which calls for a 43% emissions reduction by 2030 in line with the Paris Agreement. She stressed that climate action is both a scientific necessity and a collective responsibility, requiring collaboration across governments, industries and communities.
The session began with an Inter-School Debate Competition, underscoring EEG’s commitment to youth engagement and climate literacy. Students from The Philippine School Abu Dhabi argued in favour of carbon offsets as a credible net-zero mechanism, while the New Indian Model School – Dubai contended that offsets may act as a “loophole” that delays deeper decarbonisation. Their well-researched arguments showcased the rising climate awareness among young leaders.
An expert panel featuring prominent regional sustainability figures enriched the discussion. Speakers included:
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Mr. Abdelmuti Ahmed Murad, Director of the Climate Change Department, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
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Dr. Steven Griffiths, Vice-Chancellor for Research, American University of Sharjah
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Mr. Vijay Bains, Chief Sustainability Officer and Group Head of ESG, Emirates NBD
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Ms. Carlina Marani, Managing Director, Accenture EMEA
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Ms. Samantha Shin, Independent Climate Finance and Policy Advisor
The panel explored the complexities of carbon markets, offset frameworks, carbon capture technologies and the critical role of finance and regulation in accelerating decarbonisation. Speakers highlighted the urgency of inclusive and community-focused climate approaches that foster resilience and propel the UAE’s transition to a low-carbon future.
Dr. Al Mar’ashi emphasized that transparent policies, credible data, strong public-private partnerships and long-term market stability are essential for effective climate solutions and meaningful emissions reductions. She noted that the panel served as an important platform for fostering trust, collaboration and informed action across the carbon ecosystem.
The event was supported by McDonald’s UAE, the Main Sponsor, whose long-standing partnership strengthens EEG’s climate dialogue initiatives. Dubai Chambers hosted the session as Venue Sponsor, while Al Khoory provided catering support. Additional partnerships with the Emirates Green Building Council, Clean Energy Business Council, Swiss Business Council and Arabia CSR Network further reinforced the session’s impact and reach.
