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Friday, December 05, 2025 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "Sustainability" (28 articles)

Gulf Times
Qatar

Kahramaa wins prize for innovation in smart electric vehicle charging platform project

The Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) won the "Gartner Eye on Innovation Awards for Power and Utilities" for the "Smart Electric Vehicle Charging Platform Project - Phase Two", which represents a qualitative leap in enhancing digital transformation and sustainability in the State of Qatar. In a press release today, Kahramaa said the Smart Electric Vehicle Charging Platform project came as a response to challenges faced by electric vehicle users, where there was fragmentation in charging applications, low usage rates, in addition to the lack of coordination among service providers, and the absence of vital data necessary for making evidence-based decisions on actual usage. Kahramaa launched the first phase of the platform in cooperation with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology to create a unified platform that brings together all charging service providers. The project was developed in the second phase to provide users with the platform's capability for immediate access to all stations, with direct information about their availability and booking options, along with providing accurate usage analytics that contribute to raising operational efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. President of Kahramaa, Engineer Abdulla bin Ali Al Dheyab, said: "We have succeeded in unifying the user experience and providing accurate data that supports national policies, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Choosing our project as a semi-finalist in the Gartner Global Innovation Award confirms Kahramaa's commitment to leadership in digital transformation and sustainability and reflects our team's efforts in providing innovative solutions that serve the community and support the state's goals of reducing carbon emissions." The project began with a pilot phase in 2024, and the second phase was developed in 2025. Among the most prominent results were more than 2,980 application downloads; integration of more than 130 electric charging stations; saving more than 140,000 liters of fuel, reducing more than 0.3 million kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions; accelerating the station-finding process by 80%; achieving report accuracy exceeding 95% for analytics; and raising the level of coordination among service providers, users, and regulatory entities. The "Gartner Eye on Innovation Awards for Power and Utilities" is one of the most important global awards in the field of digital innovation for the energy and utilities sector, where the 2025 edition witnessed record participation from institutions around the world, with competition divided into three main regions: the Americas, Europe, Kahramaa obtained the semi-finalist position at the Asia and Pacific region level, in an achievement that reflects Qatar's leadership in the fields of digital transformation and sustainability and strengthens its position as a regional hub for innovation in clean energy.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar implements Advanced Monitoring Network to ensure air quality, achieve sustainability goals

The State of Qatar continues to implement advanced strategies in environmental protection and air quality improvement, as part of Qatar National Vision 2030, which places environmental sustainability at the core of national policies. Thanks to the efforts of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Qatar has emerged as a regional leader in developing a comprehensive and precise national air quality monitoring and improvement system, relying on the latest globally recognized environmental technologies and systems. In a pioneering step, during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, advanced air quality monitoring stations were deployed around each stadium, covering areas of up to 5 square kilometers. These stations enabled real-time environmental data analysis in both fan zones and stadium surroundings, offering a global model for implementing environmental sustainability in major events. The stations were equipped with cutting-edge sensors capable of measuring pollutant gas concentrations and airborne particles, as well as identifying their sources. They also had the ability to transmit data instantly to the Air Quality Monitoring and Analysis Unit, which analyzes the data and issues early warnings when necessary. Air quality in the State of Qatar is subject to continuous, real-time monitoring through an integrated national network comprising more than 45 fixed and mobile stations distributed across various regions of the country, including residential areas, industrial zones, major roads, and the surroundings of key facilities. Assistant Director of the Environmental Monitoring and Inspection Department at the Ministry Abdullah Al Khulaifi said, in an exclusive interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), that air quality in Qatar is closely monitored around the clock through advanced systems linked to the Air Quality Monitoring and Analysis Unit, where data is instantly analyzed to ensure compliance with national and international standards. Al Khalifi explained that the national air quality monitoring network includes over 45 specialized stations measuring ambient air quality, in addition to another network of 20 stations located at main roads and intersections to monitor emissions from traffic and vehicles. He noted that these stations are internationally certified and provide an accurate representation of air quality conditions across the country. He stated that the Ministry relies on advanced systems for data analysis through a specialized unit within the Monitoring and Inspection Department, where data from monitoring stations nationwide is collected for environmental assessment and the preparation of periodic reports. The Assistant Director also revealed that the Ministry is working to upgrade monitoring systems by adopting the latest technologies, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics to enhance forecasting efficiency and the ability to predict potential pollution events, thereby enabling prompt action to mitigate any negative impacts. Al Khalifi emphasized that the efforts go beyond monitoring alone, encompassing broad awareness and community initiatives aimed at promoting a culture of environmental and air quality preservation. These efforts include media campaigns and partnerships with schools and universities, with the goal of instilling a sense of environmental responsibility across all segments of society. Al Khalifi noted that the Ministry is committed to enhancing data transparency and raising public awareness, which led to the launch of the Electronic Air Quality Platform. This platform provides the public with real-time information on air quality in eight key regions across the country, using simplified color-coded indicators based on the globally recognized Air Quality Index (AQI) system. It allows citizens and residents to easily understand the air quality in their surroundings. He explained that the AQI levels are displayed according to six internationally approved categories that reflect the condition of ambient air. These are represented by color gradients, from green, indicating clean air, to purple, which signals hazardous pollution levels. The AQI is based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), ground-level ozone (O₃), and carbon monoxide (CO). He added that the monitored data also includes a variety of additional variables, such as hydrocarbons, sulfur compounds, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), along with meteorological readings like temperature, wind speed and direction, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, and visibility. This enables a comprehensive analysis of how atmospheric conditions impact air quality." Al Khalifi stressed that the data published by the Ministry is based on field readings from certified monitoring stations and undergoes scientific validation. This is the only reliable source for assessing air quality in the State of Qatar. He cautioned against relying on unofficial data published by some external sources that use uncertified devices or general satellite-based simulation models. These entities do not have accurate monitoring equipment inside the country and lack a deep understanding of Qatar's local environmental conditions. He also stated that all these entities that publish air quality platforms on the internet rely on unreliable data sources linked to commercial websites that use monitoring technologies and commercial devices which do not meet even the basic internationally recognized standards and requirements. Moreover, these platforms are not accredited by any specialized environmental monitoring authority, especially the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They have spread widely due to their low cost and extensive commercial marketing campaigns. He explained that many platforms use the same misleading data sources but differ in how they present the information, underscoring the importance of relying on trusted sources and official national agencies for accurate information.He clarified that the Ministry takes into account the impacts of population growth, urban development, and the increasing number of vehicles, which is why it adopts sustainable transportation plans such as metro systems, electric buses, and cycling paths. These efforts aim to reduce traffic-related emissions and achieve an environmental balance that reflects the country's vision toward smart and sustainable cities.He pointed out that the environmental monitoring system is based on national laws governing environmental protection, such as Law No. (30) of 2002 and its Executive Regulation No. (4) of 2005, with standards aligned with the requirements of international environmental bodies. This alignment enhances the credibility and professionalism of the Ministry's work.Assistant Director of the Environmental Monitoring and Inspection Department at the Ministry Abdullah Al Khulaifi concluded by saying that the Ministry continues to expand the national air quality monitoring network, which started with a limited number of stations and now exceeds 45 stations, with plans to increase to over 50 stations in the near future. The Ministry also continuously implements technical updates and standardizes operational procedures to ensure data consistency and efficiency, in institutional cooperation with several national entities such as the Ministry of Public Health, Ashghal Public Works Authority, Qatar Meteorology Department, and QatarEnergy, thereby enhancing integration in environmental data monitoring and analysis.

Gulf Times
Community

AFG College signs MoU with Kingdom Konsult to enhance student employability and industry engagement

AFG College with the University of Aberdeen has entered into a partnership with Kingdom Konsult, a local consulting firm in sustainability and the circular economy.Both the entities signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the college’s new NBK1 campus, outlining a broad plan for professional, academic, and knowledge-based collaboration.This partnership has been developed to create meaningful opportunities for AFG College students to engage with real-life business environments and build professional competencies that will complement their academic experience."This agreement signed today demonstrates our ongoing commitment as an organisation to bridging the gap between academia and industry," said Sheikha Anwar bint Nawaf al- Thani, chief executive officer of Al Faleh Educational Holding.The scope of the MoU includes the offering of internships for students, giving them direct access to innovative projects that Kingdom Konsult are working on.Such opportunities allow students to apply the theoretical concepts taught in the classroom to a practical setting, thus gaining hands-on experience at a leading sustainability driven consultancy.Kingdom Konsult will participate at the college’s annual careers fair event, offering the opportunity for mentorships, as well as attending other career focused events.The partnership will allow Kingdom Konsult the opportunity to be actively involved in panel discussions, roundtable events, as well as guest lectures, which offers students insights from a leading provider of consultancy services. "This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing Qatar’s sustainability and knowledge-based economy," said Katina Aghayan, founder and chief executive officer of Kingdom Konsult.Kingdom Konsult views education as the foundation of transformation, where young talents are empowered to think critically, innovate responsibly, and lead with purpose, according to her."Together, we are cultivating the next generation of sustainability leaders who will shape a greener, more resilient future for Qatar and the region," she said.AFG College will develop bespoke professional training for the staff of Kingdom Konsult, which will focus on developing their leadership and strategic decision-making abilities. These workshops will be developed in consultation with the firm and delivered by AFG faculty."As the nation moves forward with its drive towards being a knowledge-based economy, such partnerships will prove vital in shaping future generations," Sheikha Anwar said.

Gulf Times
Qatar

M7 Announces Specialized Training in Sustainability and Strategic Innovation November

M7, Qatar's hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in design, fashion, and technology, has announced the launch of a specialized training programme in sustainability and strategic innovation. The programme, held in collaboration with the Swedish Fashion Council (SFC), will take place from Nov 2 to 5, at M7's headquarters.The initiative aims to empower designers and entrepreneurs in the fashion sector by enhancing their skills in sustainable practices, strategic planning, and brand development. It features hands-on workshops, case studies, and interactive sessions led by international experts.Participants will explore market trends, consumer behavior, and methods for integrating sustainability as a driver of creativity and competitiveness. Each day blends practical skill-building with strategic thinking in an immersive and highly interactive learning experience tailored to the realities of the fashion industry.Key topics include global fashion industry trends, Sweden's sustainability model, strategies for building sustainable brands, and international business frameworks.Applicants are required to have foundational experience in fashion, whether through academic study, internships, or professional work, and basic knowledge of sustainable fashion practices.The program welcomes participants currently leading or working with emerging brands, as well as ambitious individuals planning to launch their own labels, provided they demonstrate a strong interest in developing practical sustainability skills.This training is part of M7's specialised learning series designed to advance the creative community's capabilities in Qatar.It coincides with the "Nation of Evolution" campaign organized by the "Qatar Creates" initiative, celebrating 20 years since the founding of Qatar Museums and 50 years since the launch of the National Museum of Qatar. (QNA)

Ali al-Dosari, Executive Director Operations of Lusail International Circuit and Hamad Alkhalaqi, PR & Communications Manager at Lusail International Circuit address a press conference.
Sport

Lusail International Circuit gears up for Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix with enhanced fan experiences, community initiatives and 50-Day Countdown

Lusail International Circuit (LIC) hosted a press conference to announce “50 Days to Go” for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix, announcing LIC’s readiness to welcome fans, drivers, and teams from November 28–30, 2025 for one of the most anticipated race weekends of the year.The event, held at Lusail International Circuit, was led by Ali al-Dosari, Executive Director Operations of Lusail International Circuit and Hamad Alkhalaqi, PR & Communications Manager at Lusail International Circuit who shared details of the circuit’s final preparations, on and off track activities, enhanced fan experiences, sustainability initiatives, community programs, and citywide activations planned in the countdown to race weekend.This year’s on- and off-track program promises an unforgettable experience for everyone — from die-hard Motorsport fans to thrill-seekers and families alike. In addition to Sunday’s main race, the weekend will feature the Formula 1 Sprint Race, FIA Formula 2 Championship, and Porsche Carrera Middle East Cup, ensuring continuous, high-octane action throughout the event.Off the track, the entertainment will be just as electrifying, headlined by a concert from the globally acclaimed British singer, Seal, on Friday, followed by, on Sunday, a powerful performance by one of the world’s biggest rock bands — Metallica. Moreover, this year’s Fan Zone promises a completely reimagined experience that combines greater thrill, entertainment, education, culture, and interactivity. Visitors can look forward to a larger family area with activities for all ages, a diverse selection of local food and beverage options. At the heart of the Fan Zone, the Qatar Cultural Area will celebrate Qatari heritage through traditional performances, crafts, and hospitality; featuring live Ardha, Arabic coffee and dates, and craft showcases including Sadu weaving, pottery, calligraphy, henna. Additionally, for the first time in the Middle East, LEGO will bring its celebrated “Build The Thrill” Experience to Qatar as part of a global tour across 14 Formula 1 races. This activation will showcase a LEGO-themed pitlane and garage, where guests can build their own mini LEGO F1 car, enjoy immersive visuals and audio, and take home their creation in special Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix packaging. The Fan Zone will further feature a spectacular lineup of official F1 activations that bring fans closer to the action. Visitors can experience the F1 Sim Racing and LED Pitstop Challenge, capture moments with the F1 Driver Selfie Station, or step onto the DJ Podium for an authentic winner’s celebration. The immersive “This is F1® 4D” cinematic show, the Blast Lane wind tunnel, and virtual pit tours will round out an extraordinary lineup that underscores LIC’s role as one of the sport’s most fan-centric venues.Interactive science and sustainability experiences will also feature prominently, including the F1 Genius Dome, where visitors can explore the science of aerodynamics and race-day strategy; the Green Arena, an energy-generating cycling competition; and the Gallery of Second Life, an art exhibition made entirely from recycled materials. One of this year’s key additions is The Sensory Room, developed in collaboration with Qatar Foundation. This dedicated space will offer a calm and inclusive environment for guests with sensory sensitivities, reflecting LIC’s ongoing commitment to making the event more inclusive and accessible for all.LIC also unveiled a bi-lingual digital event map and navigation platform to improve fans' digital wayfinding experience. This cloud-based immersive digital map will guide fans seamlessly through their weekend — from their homes to circuit parkings, and across every part of the venue, including merchandise stores, amenities, fan zone activities, music concerts, accessible areas, and more. It offers real-time wayfinding, personalized navigation, and the chance for fans to plan their journey before they arrive at the circuit. Beyond enhancing the fan experience, LIC continues to prioritize responsible and forward-looking operations. In line with Qatar National Vision 2030, sustainability remains a cornerstone of the circuit’s operations. This year’s initiatives include recycling stations built from repurposed wood, expanded solar-powered lighting systems, an increase in electric fleet vehicles, and encouraging use of public transport for all ticket holders, and the continuation of a food redistribution program to minimize waste and support local communities.The press conference also highlighted the circuit’s growing commitment to youth and community engagement, including the ongoing Qatar GP Educational Tour, which is connecting students across the country with the world of motorsport through VR pit stops, STEM activities, and interactive simulations of the Lusail international Circuit track. Moreover, LIC confirmed the return of the Volunteer Programme, which will once again engage hundreds of local volunteers across key operational areas. Additionally, LIC is also partnered with University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) to formally engage students in internship programs to provide experience across a wide range of roles in the sports and events management sector, particularly in prestigious motorsport events.Building anticipation across the country, LIC announced that city and in-mall activations will take place throughout the month of November. The Qatar GP Village 2025 will open at Place Vendôme Mall, bringing the spirit of Formula 1® to Doha with VR simulators, holograms, and interactive design challenges. Meanwhile, ten human-sized F1® helmet installations will appear at Old Doha Port, Msheireb, and other landmarks across Doha; transforming the city into a celebration of motorsport and culture.Tickets for the event continue to sell rapidly, with multiple categories already sold out, and fans are encouraged to secure their seats now to be part of what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of racing, music, and celebration. Commenting on the occasion, Abdulaziz Ali al-Mohannadi, CEO of Lusail International Circuit, said: “The Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix has become a true showcase of Qatar’s innovation and hospitality. This year, we are proud to present not only a world-class race but an entire festival experience that connects technology, culture, education, sustainability and community initiatives. Our goal is to deliver a weekend that celebrates the very best of Qatar and continues to position LIC as a leader in international motorsport.”With the countdown now underway, Lusail International Circuit stands ready to welcome the world once again, offering fans a truly exceptional Formula 1 weekend that captures the excitement of the sport, and the passion that unites motorsport enthusiasts around the globe.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar Museums recognised among region's leading institutions in sustainability

Qatar Museums (QM) announced that it has been recognised among the region's leading institutions in sustainability at the Gulf Sustainability Awards 2025, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. QM was awarded the Gold Award for Best Sustainability in Tourism and Hospitality, distinguishing it as a benchmark institution in advancing responsible cultural tourism and sustainable visitor experiences. It was also awarded the Silver and Bronze Awards in the Green Building category, recognising its commitment to sustainable architecture, energy-efficient infrastructure, and environmentally conscious operational practices across its museum network. Competing against more than 50 prominent organisations from across the Middle East, QM achieved multiple distinctions that reflect its leadership in integrating sustainability into every aspect of its cultural and operational mandate. These accolades reaffirm Qatar Museums' alignment with the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly its environmental development pillar. By embedding sustainability into design, operations, and community engagement, QM continues to set new regional standards for institutional responsibility and cultural leadership. This year, Qatar Museums is celebrating its 20th anniversary. This milestone year is marked by Evolution Nation—an 18-month campaign honouring Qatar's cultural journey, since the founding of the National Museum.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Earthna partners with ministry to host Qatar Sustainability Week from Nov 1

Qatar Sustainability Week (QSW) 2025, the country’s largest community-focused initiative, will return for the 10th time, led by Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.Scheduled to take place from Nov 1-8, QSW 2025 aims to encourage Qatar’s community, government, NGOs, and private sector entities to take part in various sustainability-focused activities, events, and projects.Executive Director of Earthna, Dr Gonzalo Castro de la Mata expressed the significance of QSW 2025, stating: “Over the past decade, Qatar Sustainability Week has grown from an awareness campaign into a nationwide movement driving measurable change. The movement has engaged more than 750,000 people across schools, businesses, cultural institutions, and civil society, strengthening QSW’s role as a keystone of the nation’s sustainability journey. We sincerely thank our long-term partners for their support, in particular the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.”For his part, Assistant Undersecretary for Climate Change Affairs, Engineer Ahmed Mohammed al-Sada, reaffirmed the ministry’s strong support for the initiative, which aligns with its strategic mission to foster collaboration between institutions and communities while raising public environmental awareness.These efforts, he said, are vital for protecting Qatar’s environment and achieving long-term sustainability.Al-Sada underscored the ministry’s commitment to promoting national initiatives that support Qatar’s journey towards environmental sustainability.QSW 2025 will bring together several strategic partners this year including the Ministry of Sports and Youth, Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa)’s Tarsheed programme, Qatar Museums, Qatar University, Mathaf, and the Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah International Foundation for Energy and Sustainable Development along with others. (QNA)

Gulf Times
Qatar

Sustainability Heroes programme launched

Under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), ‘Injaz Qatar’, in collaboration with Nestlé, launched the ‘Sustainability Heroes’ programme, which aims to raise environmental awareness among youth in Qatar and prepare a new generation capable of addressing sustainability and climate change challenges.The launch ceremony was attended by Injaz Qatar and Injaz Al-Arab chairperson HE Sheikha Hanadi bint Nasser al-Thani and Swiss ambassador to Qatar, Florence Tinguely Mattli, alongside a number of officials and representatives from relevant entities.The ceremony included a panel discussion titled ‘Nurturing a Generation of Sustainability Heroes’, featuring Dr Abdullah Ahmed al-Tamimi, head of the Sustainable Production and Consumption Department at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change; Sebastien Turbot, director of Advocacy and Communications at Earthna; and Tarek Abouzolf, general manager of Nestlé Qatar.The discussion addressed mechanisms for enhancing youth participation in sustainability programmes through awareness and interactive activities that link theoretical knowledge with practical experiences.Dr al-Tamimi affirmed that the MoECC places special importance on encouraging students to participate in field and community activities, as these play a key role in translating theoretical knowledge into practical action that enhances their environmental awareness and supports the country’s vision of building a green economy and a sustainable society.Abouzolf added: “We will continue to support students from ideation to implementation, providing training and career opportunities so that their projects can evolve into solutions that benefit society and the environment.”The discussion session was moderated by Injaz Qatar CEO Emad al-Khaja, who highlighted the vital role of collaboration between the private sector and the education sector.

Gulf Times
Qatar

QU organises international conference on Sustainability in Arab World

The College of Arts and Sciences at Qatar University (QU), in collaboration with Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW Hamburg) in Germany and the National Planning Council, organised the international conference “Empowering Sustainability: Sustainable Development Goals and Future Prospects in the Arab World.”The two-day conference, brought together leading experts, policymakers, and practitioners to exchange knowledge and best practices on advancing sustainability. The conference provided a platform for regional and international dialogue, enabling stakeholders in the Arab world to benefit from global experiences while addressing local and regional priorities. Sessions covered pressing topics such as food and water security, renewable energy, climate change, education for sustainability, and digital innovation.**media[361718]**Dr Fatima Ali al-Kubaisi, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at QU, stated: “This conference is the outcome of constructive collaboration between the College of Arts and Sciences and HAW Hamburg with strategic support from the National Planning Council. It reflects QU’s commitment to fostering co-operation with national institutions stemming from our deep belief in the importance of integration between academic institutions and executive bodies to achieve our shared goals.”Dr al-Kubaisi noted that the conference themes address key topics such as food and water security, renewable energy, climate change, and education for sustainability — aligning with both national and regional priorities and reflecting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, which have become a roadmap for humanity toward a more stable future.Ahmed Khalid al-Sumaiti, director of the International Indicators and International Cooperation Department at the National Planning Council, emphasised collective responsibility.Prof Walter Leal, director of the Research and Transfer Centre for Sustainability and Climate Change Management at HAW Hamburg, noted that the event offered a valuable opportunity to exchange insights and share experiences at a time when the need for regional and international collaboration is increasingly urgent to address accelerating challenges and achieve development goals in a tangible and effective manner.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Qatar Sustainability Portal video showcased at Expo 2025 Osaka

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has presented an introductory video about the Qatar Sustainability Portal at Qatar’s pavilion in Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan.The video highlighted the country’s efforts in addressing climate change challenges and emphasised the importance of engaging various sectors in adopting responsible practices aligned with Qatar’s National Environment and Climate Change Strategy.

GWC Group Managing Director Sheikh Abdulla bin Fahad bin Jassim bin Jaber al-Thani
Business

GWC named among Forbes Middle East 'Sustainability Leaders 2025'

Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC) has been ranked ninth regionally in the transport and logistics category on Forbes Middle East’s Sustainability Leaders 2025 list, which features 126 companies and institutions.This recognition highlights GWC’s role in promoting sustainable development practices and supporting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives across the region.GWC Group Managing Director Sheikh Abdulla bin Fahad bin Jassim bin Jaber al-Thani said: “We are proud to be recognised by Forbes Middle East for the third year in a row. This honour reflects our steadfast commitment to integrating ESG principles into our business model and highlights our ongoing efforts to provide sustainable logistics and supply chain solutions to our diverse clientele, in line with Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy, Qatar National Vision 2030, the National Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”GWC’s Group Acting CEO Matthew Kearns stated: “Sustainability is a cornerstone for driving positive change, promoting responsible practices, and contributing to development. We achieve this by leveraging our capabilities, investing in the communities where we operate, strengthening governance, protecting the environment, and managing risks effectively.”He added: “This recognition reaffirms our commitment to adopting responsible initiatives and taking a proactive approach to sustainability. It further strengthens GWC’s position as a leader in ESG practices, demonstrated through a wide range of initiatives such as beach clean-ups, tree planting, wastewater treatment, energy conservation and emissions reduction, paperless processes, vehicle route optimisation, reduce-reuse-recycle initiatives, and resource consumption optimisation.”GWC’s Biobin initiative processed nearly 100 tonnes of food waste from its sites last year, transforming close to 40 tonnes into premium, nutrient-rich compost – enough to cover the equivalent of 14 FIFA football pitches.As part of the initiative, the recycled compost is donated to local agricultural projects including Education City Micro Farm, a community garden run by agriculture company Hadiqa that offers educational workshops for children in Doha, teaching them about gardening to create a more self-sufficient future.Forbes Middle East highlighted that the company has reduced Scope-1 carbon emissions by 3% and Scope-2 emissions by 0.2% compared with 2023 levels in 2024 and recycled more than 162,000m³ of treated wastewater at GWC Bu Sulba Warehousing Park, achieving a 6% year-on-year reduction in water consumption in the same year.In 2024, GWC also recycled over 2,200 tons of waste, with a bold target of cutting waste by 20% by 2030. The company remains committed to minimising landfill dependency and promoting sustainable solutions.In September 2024, GWC joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the world’s largest voluntary corporate sustainability initiative, aligning itself with over 23,000 companies from some 166 countries worldwide committed to promoting responsible business practices and SDGs.

QIB Group CEO Bassel Gamal
Business

QIB Group CEO featured among Forbes Middle East’s Sustainability Leaders 2025

QIB Group CEO Bassel Gamal has been recognised in Forbes Middle East’s ‘Sustainability Leaders 2025’, a list celebrating executives who are advancing sustainability across the region’s largest companies.The achievement underscores the bank’s dedication to environmental management, robust ESG commitments, and innovative sustainability initiatives, affirming its influential role in promoting positive environmental impact and sustainable practices.QIB’s recognition aligns with the bank’s ongoing commitment to its ESG strategy, which includes the introduction of innovative, Shariah-compliant solutions and tools that empower customers and businesses to make more sustainable choices.This year’s Forbes Middle East list features 126 leaders across 15 industries, underscoring how sustainability is shifting from pledges to measurable action across the region. In the banks category, Gamal was recognised among the Middle East’s top 10 leading executives within the banking industry, affirming QIB’s leadership in sustainable finance and responsible banking.Gamal said, “We are pleased to be recognised by Forbes Middle East as a sustainability leader, reaffirming our strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility. This distinction validates our dedication to sustainability through tangible initiatives and recent milestones.“Our core strategy integrates sustainability into our business operations, rooted in our Islamic values and heritage. Over the past year, we have accelerated the integration of ESG principles across our organisation, aligning closely with Qatar National Vision 2030, Qatar Central Bank’s ESG & Sustainability Strategy for the Financial Sector, the National Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and global best practices. This commitment strengthens our brand and enhances our financial resilience and long-term value for all stakeholders.”Recent QIB milestones include being the first bank in Qatar to adopt the Equator Principles, which has led the bank to embed a robust ESG Risk Assessment process in its credit review for all new finance requests. The bank has launched a sustainable deposit for institutional and corporate customers, which is in turn tagged to its sustainable asset portfolio. This product is aligned with QIB’s Sustainable Products Framework – guiding green and social financing.QIB has further introduced a carbon emissions tracker in the QIB Mobile App — Qatar’s first of its kind to help retail customers monitor the carbon footprint of their card transactions and encourage environmentally responsible purchasing behaviour through tailored sustainability tips. Additionally, QIB has collaborated with DHL to help lower its logistics emissions under the GoGreen Plus flagship, introduced a range of eco-friendly cards made from recycled plastic, and accelerated its shift to paperless banking through e-statements, digital onboarding, and smart printing.QIB’s current sustainability-related initiatives are aimed at embedding the assessment of climate risks within its risk management processes, leading to the evaluation of the potential impact of climate-related physical and transition risks on its wholesale banking portfolio, as per the guidelines laid down in Qatar Central Bank’s ESG Supervisory Principles for Banks.Forbes Middle East has unveiled its 2025 Sustainability Leaders list, spotlighting organisations across the Middle East that are driving measurable progress toward sustainable business goals. The evaluation considered demonstrable environmental impact, adherence to ESG principles, transparency, collaboration, initiatives delivered over the past year, and credible net-zero roadmaps. Within banking and financial services, the methodology placed particular emphasis on advancing sustainable finance.