SDG 13: Climate Action
Overview of SDG 13 in the UAE
The UAE has been proactive in addressing Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13) on Climate Action through initiatives led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Recognizing the vulnerability of arid environments, the UAE’s national climate policies focus on reducing carbon emissions, investing in renewable energy, and conserving water resources. Key programs include the National Climate Change Plan 2017-2050, which guides efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability across sectors, and investments in clean energy, like the Masdar City initiative and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, one of the world’s largest solar projects. These projects are supported by nationwide environmental campaigns that encourage individuals and businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices, aligning with the UAE’s vision of a low-carbon future.
UAE’s Climate Change Strategy
To combat climate change under SDG 13, the UAE government, led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), has implemented a robust framework focused on carbon reduction, renewable energy, and environmental conservation. The National Climate Change Plan 2017-2050 targets emissions cuts and supports a clean energy shift, with the aim of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Key initiatives include investments in large-scale solar projects, such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, and the creation of green cities like Masdar City, which embodies sustainable urban planning. Water conservation programs, waste reduction policies, and public environmental awareness campaigns further reflect the UAE's commitment to sustainability.
Al Ain University (AAU) and SDG 13: Climate Action on Campus and Beyond
Al Ain University (AAU) contributes to SDG 13 by promoting environmental sustainability on its campuses and within the community. AAU has adopted energy-efficient buildings and water conservation measures to reduce its ecological footprint. Additionally, the university engages students and staff in environmental awareness programs, promoting eco-friendly practices such as recycling and energy-saving initiatives. Beyond the campus, AAU collaborates with local environmental organizations to conduct outreach programs that educate the community on climate change and encourage sustainable habits. Through these efforts, AAU demonstrates a commitment to climate action, supporting the UAE’s broader sustainability goals.
Al Ain University (AAU) and SDG 13: Campus and Community Initiatives
Al Ain University (AAU) actively participates in SDG 13 by integrating sustainable practices on campus and engaging with the community to promote environmental awareness. The university has taken steps to minimize its carbon footprint by implementing energy-efficient buildings and water-saving facilities. Recycling programs and campus-wide initiatives, such as energy conservation campaigns, are regularly conducted to encourage sustainable behaviors among students and staff.
In addition to on-campus efforts, AAU works with local environmental organizations to extend its impact beyond the university. Through partnerships and community outreach, AAU holds workshops and environmental events to educate the broader community about climate action and sustainability practices. These initiatives align with the UAE’s national strategy by fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and resilience, directly supporting SDG 13 objectives for a sustainable future.
This combined effort by the UAE government and AAU represents a cohesive approach to climate action, reflecting the commitment to address environmental challenges at both national and institutional levels.
AAU participated in the WEEC 2024
Al Ain university (AAU) actively engaged in the 12th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC 2024), to emphasize its commitment to environmental issues and sustainable development. AAU’s professors presented a variety of research presentations discussing environmental issues, and the university also participated in the accompanying exhibition, showcasing its community initiatives in climate, environmental sustainability, and environmental education.
The hosting of this global conference by the United Arab Emirates reflects its commitment to environmental sustainability. Al Ain University, aligned with this vision, is dedicated to applying the highest standards of environmental sustainability through education, scientific research, community activities, and university infrastructure. The university is committed to providing high-quality education, organizing conferences, workshops, and launching initiatives that serve the youth and contribute to enhancing sustainable entrepreneurship for the future.
Al Ain University takes pride in its ranking as the 5th in the United Arab Emirates in the 2024 QS World Sustainability Ranking. Additionally, the university has achieved advanced positions in Sustainable Development Goals, ranking 6th globally in Goal 4 (Quality Education), 33rd globally in Goal 5 (Gender Equality), and 88th globally in Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). The university is also a member of the Universities Climate Network, a network of 33 local universities collaborating in education, research, and community service in environmental protection and climate change mitigation.
Al Ain university offers a diverse range of programs and specializations that align with its educational outcomes and sustainable development goals. Al Ain University actively seeks to strengthen its relationships and establish collaborative agreements with external institutions interested in environmental issues, including the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority.
Al Ain University made a notable contribution to COP 28, with its professors delivering oral presentations and research papers addressing environmental, climate, sustainability, and artificial intelligence issues. The university's students also participated in the Climate Ambassadors program, innovation competitions, and entrepreneurship challenges.
The university prioritizes the promotion of scientific research and encourages professors to conduct innovative research that serves the environment, addresses climate challenges, and generates creative solutions.
The College of Law Organizes the First Annual Exhibition on Law and the Environment
The College of Law at Al Ain University (Al Ain Campus), in collaboration with the Administrative Unit, organized the first annual exhibition under the theme 'Law and the Environment,' in conjunction with (COP 28). The exhibition was inaugurated by Prof. Ghaleb Al Refae- the AAU President, in the presence of Prof. Ibtehal Abu Rezq, the Vice President for Development and follow-up, and Prof. Mustafa Qandeel, the Dean of the College of Law, along with deans of other colleges and faculty members from the College of Law and other faculties.
The exhibition featured various models and student works that illustrate the role of law in environmental protection. Additionally, it included scientific posters highlighting the wise leadership's concern in the country for climate issues and environmental protection. The exhibition provided information about the UAE's efforts in combating climate change and the UAE legislator's focus on environmental protection."
Afforestation Campaign Entitled “For UAE, we plant”
The Deanship of Student Affairs at Al Ain University (Abu Dhabi Campus) participated in the afforestation campaign "Planting for Our Emirates," organized by the UAE Environmental Work Group. The campaign coincides with the Year of Sustainability and aims to increase sustainable green areas nationwide, supporting the United Arab Emirates in its 2050 National Climate Neutrality and 2031 Biodiversity strategies.
It is worth mentioning that such events foster a spirit of volunteering and participation among students, contributing to climate action and the development of sustainable local cities and communities.
AAU students are climate ambassadors as part of Cop28
A Group of students from Al Ain University participated in the training session for the Climate Ambassadors program (under the umbrella of the COP28 conference), which took place in Dubai Expo City. This provided them with a valuable opportunity to closely follow the discussions and negotiations among the participating countries in the Conference of the Parties (COP). It also allowed them to collaborate with ambassadors from various universities in the UAE and contribute as leaders in the field of climate change.
Prior to attending the program, students underwent training workshops at the university to prepare them for the discussions. These workshops resulted in fruitful outcomes, including the development of actionable plans on a variety of environmental and climate-related topics. The students engaged in negotiations on key points, conducted diverse dialogues, and formulated a final decision at the end of the session.
It is worth mentioning that the training session for the Climate Ambassadors program significantly enhanced the students' awareness of the imminent impacts of climate change. It also helped them develop leadership, research, public speaking, and problem-solving skills.
Sustainable tree planting event on the occasion of Arab Environment Day
In conjunction with the Year of Sustainability and in alignment with the goals of the COP28 in the United Arab Emirates, the College of Education, Humanities, and Social Sciences, along with the Deanship of Student Affairs (Al Ain campus), organized a sustainable tree planting event. During this event, the AAU President, Prof. Ghaleb Al-Refae, the Vice President for Development and Follow-Up, Prof. Ibtehal Abu Rezeq, along with several professors and students, planted Ghaf trees in the outdoor areas of the university. Prof. Al-Refae emphasized the importance of promoting planting and enhancing environmental values for a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
Webinar About Building Envelopes in Changing Climate
The College of Engineering at Al Ain University (Abu Dhabi Campus) organised a webinar about Adaptive Building Envelopes in Changing Climate, under the supervision of Dr. Omayma Mukhtar, coincident with the preparation of COP28 in UAE.
Prof. Phalguni from the University of Victoria, Canada presented the webinar and overviewed the thermal resistance values of building envelopes prescribed in building codes based on the predominant weather conditions, though the weather keeps on changing the prescribed thermal resistance values of building envelopes remain constant. Insulation that changes thermal resistance in response to its surrounding conditions , for example, adaptive, dynamic, and switchable insulation can help optimize the energy performance of building envelopes.
This presentation summarizes the observations from numerical simulations of the energy performance of a residential building with dynamic vacuum insulation in the Canadian climate.
A training workshop entitled “Together for a Green Earth”
The Deanship of Student Affairs at Al Ain University (Abu Dhabi campus) organized a training workshop entitled “Together for a Green Earth” in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi City Municipality, with the participation of students from the Emirates Private School, and in the presence of a number of deputy deans, members of the academic staff, and university students.
Engineer Saeed Al-Wahaibi covered some important topics, such as the use of operating systems in operating agricultural assets, including the “SCADA” operating system, which is a computer system for monitoring and controlling operations and collecting data remotely. He mentioned the benefits of the SCADA system, including reducing manpower, costs, time, and saving water consumption.
The engineer also spoke about Abu Dhabi Municipality receiving the Green Flag Award, which is considered the global accreditation granted to public parks and open spaces, in order to enhance specialized management and apply best practices in the field of green spaces and recreational spaces.
In turn, Engineer Abdul Majeed Nasser Al Harithi spoke about the Blue Flag Award, the most famous in the world, which is granted by the Environmental Education Foundation, which consist of 33 standards and are divided into 4 categories, which are water quality, environmental management, environmental education and public safety.
A detailed explanation and application of the steps of agriculture were provided to university and school students, and a set of interactive questions was asked during the practical application.
Dr. Noha Hamada (Deputy Dean of Student Affairs) praised the efforts made by the municipality to enrich the attendees’ information in a practical way and stressed the university’s keenness to organize events that serve the community and enhance environmental awareness to achieve sustainable development goals.
An MOU between Al Ain University and the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Al Ain University (AAU) and the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting collaboration in areas of shared interest in research and development. The signing of the agreement was overseen by Her Excellency Dr. Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri, the Secretary General of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, and Prof. Ghaleb Al Rifai, AAU President.
The MoU aims to promote collaboration in multiple environmental disciplines, benefiting both parties involved. It also mandates that faculty members possess the expertise, unique research resources, and innovative ideas to bridge any scientific gaps, as well as support the efforts of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi and Al Ain University to safeguard the environment and preserve biological diversity. This will enhance the reputation and function of both institutions as centers of scientific excellence, ultimately aiding Abu Dhabi in achieving its sustainability and environmental objectives.
Prof. Ghaleb Al-Refai, President of the University, said this memorandum will strengthen collaboration in the areas of research, service, and development while highlighting the interdependence of environmental, social, and economic systems in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development. The University is committed to utilizing its academic programs and scientific research to serve all sectors, particularly the environmental sector. Al Ain University is dedicated to preserving the environmental balance and climate and achieving the objectives of sustainable development. The university is making every effort to provide its expertise and resources to achieve these goals.
Ahmed Baharoon, the Executive Director of the Environmental Information, Science and Awareness Management Sector at the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, stated that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the agency and Al Ain University demonstrates their shared dedication to actively promoting sustainable development through scientific research activities that focus on utilizing modern technologies. He added that this collaboration is one of the essential elements for meeting the developmental needs in environmental conservation and resource management.
By signing the MoUs, the universities' significant research capabilities will be utilized to meet the emirate's environmental research requirements, while also providing the universities with an abundance of meaningful research questions. The strategic priorities of EAD, such as climate change, habitat conservation, ground and marine water, fisheries, and air quality, present exciting research opportunities. Additionally, policy formulation and balancing social, economic, and environmental factors offer valuable areas for research. The results of the collaborative research will be disseminated through various mediums, such as scientific literature, reports, and journals.
The CoB organizes the 6th Environmental Day under the slogan Climate Change (Challenges and Opportunities)
Under the supervision of Dr. Musab Tabash and Dr. Shorouk Al-Ater from the College of Business, the Sixth Annual Environmental Day was held at Al Ain University's College of Business. The event was themed "Climate Change: Challenges and Opportunities" and was attended by Prof. Ghaleb Al-Refae, the AAU President, along with several academic and administrative staff members, as well as university students.
The primary aim of the occasion was to promote consciousness about the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, with a specific focus on Goal 13, which pertains to taking action against climate change. The event was enhanced by diverse perspectives from the government sector, academia, industry, and research, all concerning the objectives of sustainable development.
Additionally, during the event, the winners of the Environment Day 2023 competition were revealed. The competition had been organized earlier to encourage students to create the finest poster or video that depicted sustainable development goals related to climate issues like air pollution, global warming, and carbon dioxide emissions.
Moreover, a tree-planting initiative took place within the premises of the university buildings, which was attended by Prof. Ghaleb Al-Refai, the President of Al Ain University, and several faculty members.
The Initiative "Towards a sustainable environment" on the occasion of Afforestation Week
Within the initiatives of the Red Crescent Student Club (Aoun Community Service Team) in the Deanship of Student Affairs, the club organized an initiative on the occasion of the National Afforestation Week under the title "Towards a sustainable green environment", in which Prof. Ibtehal Abu Rezeq- Vice President for Development and Follow-up Affairs, Dr. Alia Ali from the College of Law, and students of Determination and members of the Red Crescent Student Club participated by planting trees in the university campus.
An MOU between Al Ain University and the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Al Ain University (AAU) and the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting collaboration in areas of shared interest in research and development. The signing of the agreement was overseen by Her Excellency Dr. Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri, the Secretary General of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, and Prof. Ghaleb Al Rifai, AAU President.
The MoU aims to promote collaboration in multiple environmental disciplines, benefiting both parties involved. It also mandates that faculty members possess the expertise, unique research resources, and innovative ideas to bridge any scientific gaps, as well as support the efforts of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi and Al Ain University to safeguard the environment and preserve biological diversity. This will enhance the reputation and function of both institutions as centers of scientific excellence, ultimately aiding Abu Dhabi in achieving its sustainability and environmental objectives.
Prof. Ghaleb Al-Refai, President of the University, said this memorandum will strengthen collaboration in the areas of research, service, and development while highlighting the interdependence of environmental, social, and economic systems in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development. The University is committed to utilizing its academic programs and scientific research to serve all sectors, particularly the environmental sector. Al Ain University is dedicated to preserving the environmental balance and climate and achieving the objectives of sustainable development. The university is making every effort to provide its expertise and resources to achieve these goals.
Ahmed Baharoon, the Executive Director of the Environmental Information, Science and Awareness Management Sector at the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, stated that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the agency and Al Ain University demonstrates their shared dedication to actively promoting sustainable development through scientific research activities that focus on utilizing modern technologies. He added that this collaboration is one of the essential elements for meeting the developmental needs in environmental conservation and resource management.
By signing the MoUs, the universities' significant research capabilities will be utilized to meet the emirate's environmental research requirements, while also providing the universities with an abundance of meaningful research questions. The strategic priorities of EAD, such as climate change, habitat conservation, ground and marine water, fisheries, and air quality, present exciting research opportunities. Additionally, policy formulation and balancing social, economic, and environmental factors offer valuable areas for research. The results of the collaborative research will be disseminated through various mediums, such as scientific literature, reports, and journals.
AAU organizes the 7th Annual Environmental Day 2024
The College of Business at Al Ain University recently held its Seventh Annual Environmental Day under the theme "Climate Change and its Impact on Economic Development in the 21st Century". The event was organized jointly by Dr. Mosab I. Tabash, Dr. Shorouq Eletter, and Dr. Tahira Yasmin. The University's president, Prof. Ghaleb El Refae, presided over the event, which was attended by deans, faculty from other colleges, staff, and students. The event's primary objective was to raise awareness about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG4, SDG7, and SDG13. Different views from experts, academicians, students, and researchers enriched the day. The event began with a welcome speech by Dr. Zafar Husain, Dean of the College of Business. He discussed the College's role in promoting sustainability, ethics, and corporate social responsibility in Business.
During the Environmental Day event at Al Ain University, the speakers shared their insights about environmental sustainability and climate change. Aisha Al Mazroui, Project Manager of the Sustainable Campus Initiative from the Environmental Agency- Abu Dhabi (EAD), talked about the different initiatives EAD took and encouraged students to participate in their activities to help create a clean and green environment. Dr. Tahira Yasmin from Al Ain University discussed the "Degrowth Strategy" for Combating Climate Change Challenges globally and in the UAE, highlighting the cost of climate change to economic development.
For the first time on Environmental Day, a student-to-student panel discussion took place where students discussed the relationship between climate change and economic development. They concluded that climate change poses multifaceted challenges to economic growth, such as disrupting agricultural productivity, leading to food shortages and price volatility.
All University colleges participated in the event by setting up booths reflecting their commitment to protecting the environment. Additionally, a plantation drive for Ghaf trees was conducted on the university premises, sponsored by Barari Natural Resources, with the participation of the AAU President, faculty members, and students.
Al Ain University is part of the Sustainable Campus initiative supervised by the Abu Dhabi Environmental Agency and has ranked high in UI Green Metric World University Ranking, Sustainability Ranking, and Impact Ranking. The University is increasingly focusing on addressing urgent environmental issues.
Students visit the National Center of Meteorology
The deanship of Student Affairs/ Abu Dhabi Campus organized a visit to the National Center of Meteorology in recognition of the Year of Sustainability. The visit aimed to raise awareness about the critical issue of climate change and its impact on local and global communities.
During the visit, students were given a tour of the center's facilities and departments, where they learned about the work environment, best practices, and modern technologies and systems used in the field of meteorology. The program also included a comprehensive explanation of meteorology, climate, humidity, rain-seeding processes, and earthquakes, as well as a visit to the innovative four-dimensional scientific dome, which displays information and data on meteorology, geophysics, and rain-seeding sciences.
Dr. Nuha Hamada, Deputy Dean of Student Affairs, emphasized the importance of this visit in developing a deeper understanding of the impact of climate change and the role it plays in achieving sustainable development goals. The students expressed their excitement about this educational and scientific experience, which allowed them to gain a greater appreciation of their environment and to encourage further research in the field of climate science.
Workshop on Protection of Environment and Climate Change
College of Engineering Organizes a Virtual Webinar on “Artificial Intelligence -Assisted Engineering”
The College of Engineering/ Abu Dhabi Campus recently held a virtual webinar titled "Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Engineering and Economy-Wide Planning of Large River Basins in a Changing Climate." The webinar was led by Dr. Mohammed Basheer, a Research Fellow at the Humboldt University of Berlin, and moderated by Dr. Omayma Motaleb Mukhtar, the Program Director of Civil Engineering.
The webinar covered the development of a simulation model to design efficient economic and engineering interventions using artificial intelligence techniques to enhance resilience and minimize costs within integrated water-energy-economy-hydrology-climate system models. The discussion emphasized the current challenges facing sustainable development goals such as Affordable and Clean Energy, Decent Work & Economic Growth, and Climate Action.
The event drew a diverse audience, including faculty, students, staff, and professionals from municipalities, universities, and industries both within the UAE and abroad.
COB & UN Climate Change Conference (COP-28)
T he College of Business participated in COP 28, a significant event for the UAE held in Nov-Dec 2023 that aimed to address sustainability challenges and foster innovation. This participation reflects the college’s commitment to sustainable development goals and its role in promoting innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. Through active engagement in events organized by the government, like COP 28, WEEC, etc., the college contributes to the UAE’s efforts to drive long-term prosperity and environmental stewardship. During the 28th United Nations Climate Change conference, held in Nov-Dec in UAE, COB invited Mr. Omran Almazrouei (Sr. Negotiator– Climate Finance, Climate Change Special Envoy, UAE) to deliver an informatory session to our students on climate change and the need for sustainable businesses. He highlighted the government’s efforts to unite the world for global transformative climate action, particularly by leading the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference - COP28. His insights shed light on the urgent need for action and the role of businesses in creating a sustainable future for all.
The 7th Annual Environment Day
COB hosted its 7th Annual Environment Day on 22 Feb. 2024, centered around the theme ‘Climate Change and its Impact on Economic Development in the 21st Century.’ The event aimed to raise awareness about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG4, SDG7, and SDG13. Distinguished experts, academicians, students, and researchers shared insights, enriching discussions on climate change and its economic implications. With over 60 participants, including faculty members, students, and the local community, the day fostered new ideas in research, enhanced students’ understanding of climate actions and their impact on the economy, and facilitated networking and collaborations with experts from the Environmental Agency, Abu Dhabi. This event was organized by Dr. Mosab, Dr. Shorouq, Dr. Tahirah, Dr. Abousamak, and Dr. Abdelhafid and contributed to PLOs 1 and 5, emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability and global awareness in business education.