In January 2021, the UAE Cabinet approved the UAE Circular Economy Policy - ( PDF, 2.13 MB) which is a comprehensive framework for determining the country’s approach to achieving sustainable governance and the ideal use of natural resources, by adopting consumption and production methods that ensure the quality of life for current and future generations.

The policy comprises several key objectives, such as:

• promoting environmental health
• supporting the private sector in adopting clean production methods
• reducing natural environmental stress, to achieve the country’s vision to be a global pioneer of green development.

The policy is a framework for identifying the priorities in terms of circular economy. Priorities include infrastructure, sustainable transportation, sustainable manufacturing, sustainable food production and consumption.

The policy and its outcomes are expected to:

• generate considerable economic proceeds for the country
• mitigate environmental pressures
• ensure the supply of raw materials
• increase competitiveness
• motivate innovation
• strengthen economic growth
• create job opportunities.

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