UAE Introduces National Green Certificates Initiative to Boost Eco-Friendly Infrastructure

To promote eco-friendly construction methodologies, the United Arab Emirates has launched an initiative to implement strict standards for building classifications.

The criteria cover a range of aspects, including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and the use of sustainable construction materials.

The initiative, known as the National Green Certificates Programme, has been rolled out by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI). It is designed to complement the goals of both the National Demand-side Management Program (DSM) and the National Green Building Regulation. The DSM Strategy was created by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy to help Dubai become a leader in saving electricity and water. The goal is to reduce energy and water use by 30% by 2030.

On the other hand, the national green building regulation is designed to fulfill the mandatory, minimum energy and water standards for the new buildings in the UAE.

To facilitate adherence to these standards, MoEI will offer technical assistance and consultancy services to businesses engaged in the program. Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, stated that this initiative marks a pivotal advancement in promoting a green economy and sustainable development within the nation.

Additionally, Eng Sharif Al Olama, the Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at MoEI, emphasized the program's role in furthering the ministry's objectives of enhancing environmental sustainability and spearheading decarbonization efforts in the construction industry.

The program also seeks to diminish energy and water usage and reduce the construction sector's overall carbon footprint, aligning with the UAE's ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.^[?]

In support of these objectives, the ministry has also entered into four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). A memorandum of understanding is a formal agreement between two or more parties. It is not always legally binding, but shows that the parties are ready to make a contract. Here are four listed here:

These strategic partnerships highlight the comprehensive approach adopted to foster sustainable building practices across the UAE.