DEWA and Emirates Nature-WWF launch a series of sustainability workshops

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), in partnership with Emirates Nature-WWF, an environmental charity affiliated with the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), organised a specialised workshop to simulate real-world climate solutions. The workshop aimed to deepen DEWA employees' knowledge and expertise in sustainability and climate change, while exploring innovative solutions for food and energy systems, ultimately striving to combat climate change and achieve net zero. Innovative technological solutions provided by the American Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) were utilised. The workshop, in which 64 DEWA employees from various divisions participated, is part of a series of training seminars to be held in May and September, and will focus on ecosystems and marine life in the UAE environment and the world.

“We utilise our local and global strategic partnerships to refine employees' skills according to the highest international standards so that they are up to date with the latest developments and technologies in their areas of work, supporting their influential role in making a positive impact and accelerating sustainability and climate action. We focus on preparing Emirati talent that keeps pace with rapid changes, challenges and international opportunities. This supports efforts to achieve the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050. In the ‘Year of Community” in the UAE, we foster a culture of shared responsibility and encourage stakeholders to actively contribute to society. By uniting efforts, we aim to build a strong and interconnected community capable of overcoming challenges and achieving aspirations. This will ensure a brighter and more sustainable future, where everyone enjoys development, prosperity and an enhanced quality of life,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.

Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General of Emirates Nature-WWF, said: “Government entities play a pivotal role in transforming the UAE's sustainability plans and strategies into a reality that we live and benefit from. We pride ourselves on our long-term partnership with DEWA, as well as many other government entities and various sectors in the UAE, working hand in hand with them to implement strategies and programmes aimed at building a sustainable future for the UAE and achieving a wide positive impact. Through our flagship ‘Leaders of Change’ programme, we offer exceptional opportunities to the government and private sectors, as well as the youth and society as a whole, especially during the ‘Year of Community’ in the UAE, to play an active role in protecting biodiversity and diverse ecosystems, joining us in our efforts to reduce the effects of climate change and build a better future for all.

Since 2016, DEWA has teamed up with Emirates Nature-WWF to carry out numerous climate change initiatives and programmes. These efforts aim to enhance energy efficiency, preserve biodiversity and educate the public on how to reduce the effects of climate change. Notable initiatives include the ‘Leaders of Change’ programme that has engaged over 300 DEWA employees, the ‘Climate Change Champions’ programme and ‘Sustainability Talks’, with 35 sessions during the 2024-2025 cycle benefiting over 3,600 employees. Additionally, sustainability-focused competitions have recognised 81 winners to date.