The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has officially launched a pioneering carbon Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) program to tackle emissions and fast-track the Emirate’s journey toward a low-carbon economy. Fitted within the related international frameworks of the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement, the program places Abu Dhabi at the forefront of global sustainability and innovation, contributing to the wider UAE objective of attaining net-zero emissions by 2050.
With an ambitious target to reduce carbon emissions by 22% by 2027, the MRV programme underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to combating climate change. Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, emphasized the importance of reliable and transparent data in assessing and implementing climate policies. “Transparent data is essential for assessing climate policies, such as carbon pricing mechanisms, and supports Abu Dhabi’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions,” she stated. The MRV system will integrate mandatory reporting and verification measures into Abu Dhabi’s existing carbon accounting framework, creating a robust foundation for monitoring and addressing emissions across key sectors.
The MRV programme’s primary goal is to standardize greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting across Abu Dhabi’s industrial and energy sectors. Large carbon-emitting facilities will be required to monitor, report, and verify emissions annually, with the first reports expected in 2026. This data-driven approach ensures accuracy and transparency, fostering innovation and enhancing Abu Dhabi’s competitiveness on the global stage.
Collaboration with public and private stakeholders is central to the programme’s implementation, ensuring alignment on thresholds and sector-specific requirements. Industry leaders such as Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) have come out in strong support for the initiative. Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, CEO of EGA, said: “This tool is an important step in achieving our bold aspiration of embedding sustainability in everything we do and reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The MRV system will also be the basis for introducing carbon pricing mechanisms, allowing emission-intensive industries to decarbonize effectively. Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Under-Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, underlined the importance of the initiative, saying, “MRV systems are critical to providing accurate data to track carbon emissions, ensuring transparency, building trust, and driving effective climate action.
Operationally, EAD will oversee the MRV programme, ensuring its alignment with federal, local, and private sector partners. The initiative is intricately linked to the UAE’s COP28 goals and the UAE Consensus, further cementing the nation’s leadership in global climate action.
The MRV programme is a key pillar of Abu Dhabi’s decarbonization strategy, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship. By combining innovation, transparency, and collaboration, Abu Dhabi is paving the way for a sustainable future, addressing the urgent need for climate action while maintaining its position as a competitive global hub. This comprehensive approach highlights the emirate’s leadership in addressing climate challenges, setting a benchmark for other regions worldwide.