Running from May to September 2022, NDCA engages stakeholders in UAE priority sectors, including manufacturing, cement, waste, transport, and energy, through hosting a monthly stakeholder assembly dedicated to a different sector every month to explore sectoral requirements, priorities, and future direction to scale up their contributions to reducing carbon emissions.

The inaugural session, dedicated to the cement sector under the theme ‘Cementing a Decarbonized Future’, convened 83 representatives of federal and local government entities and stakeholders from the cement, waste, and energy sectors. The participants discussed international best practices, reviewed the status of the local sectoral landscape, and explored emerging solutions that can decarbonize the sector and bring it closer to net zero.

Addressing the gathering of cement industry stakeholders, Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said: “Through the launch of the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative in October 2021, we aspire to build on our long-standing track record of ambitious climate mitigation and adaptation action, and continue to make significant contributions to global climate endeavors. Moreover, the transition towards net zero presents a new model of sustainable economic growth that leverages research, development, and technology innovation, and acts as a catalyst for investment and job creation. We are pleased to introduce NDCA that will serve as a national platform to foster sectoral climate efforts.”

She added: “The cement industry contributes between five and 10 percent of the carbon footprint of many nations. In the UAE, it accounts for six to seven percent of the national CO₂ inventory. However, we have great faith in the ability of the cement industry to take a stand today and plan for a better and environmentally sustainable future. Going green does not mean losing efficiency or becoming non-competitive. On the contrary, we can use commercially viable technologies, the latest innovations, and agile regulations to our advantage to achieve a dual positive impact.”

In addition, at every NDCA, a sectoral climate action champion will be appointed. The champions will lead their respective sectors’ efforts to reach ambitious climate goals, advocate for climate-smart solutions, and serve as liaisons between their industries and the government.