The UAE’s extension of its Year of Sustainability theme underscores the nation’s determination to protect and preserve its environment for the benefit of future generations and to instill in all, the need to constantly pursue this goal.

While much of the global sustainability focus is currently on turning the tide on the climate change crisis, the UAE is underlining the message that sustainability must now be a constant in our lives.

Many companies rallied to the sustainability cause in the run up to the UAE’s 2023 hosting of the COP28 climate conference, but the momentum needs to continue. The efforts cannot be limited to the public sector. The private sector has to be an equal partner if we are to achieve the COP28 UAE Consensus to start cutting back on fossil fuels and achieve net-zero goals by 2050.

For a start, the private sector must examine all its facilities to see where energy, water, and waste savings can be made. Processes can be made paperless, and workplaces can focus on being ‘plastic-free’ zones as much as possible. Businesses can also educate employees and their families about the need for sustainability in their daily lives and impress upon them that every little effort contributes to the bigger movement.

Sustainability has transcended its status as a mere buzzword; it has become an imperative for businesses worldwide, and the UAE is no exception. Furthermore, businesses can benefit their performance and reputation by overtly supporting the sustainability drive. Implementing eco-friendly practices such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation benefits the planet and enhances a company’s reputation as a responsible corporate citizen.

Economic Resilience
Companies that embrace sustainability not only future-proof their operations but also unlock new opportunities for innovation, growth, and competitiveness. Investing in renewable energy, green technology, and sustainable infrastructure can drive economic development while minimising dependency on finite resources.

Reputation & Brand Equity
In today’s interconnected world, consumers, investors, and stakeholders are increasingly scrutinising companies’ environmental and social performance. By communicating transparently about sustainability efforts, companies can build trust, credibility, and goodwill among stakeholders. Moreover, being recognised as a sustainability leader can differentiate a company and create a competitive advantage that drives business growth and profitability.

At ESAG, we have actively engaged in Energy Services projects through our company TTE Engineering, empowering numerous clients to elevate and refine their operations in line with contemporary sustainability standards. We’ve also increased the use of steel scrap in our steel production and enhanced our facilities, ensuring one of our companies, Gulf Metal Foundry, is both energy-efficient and sustainable.

Proper disposal or recycling of mill scale is important to minimise environmental impact and adhere to regulatory requirements. Through strategic innovation and resource optimisation, Al Gurg Building Services has transformed the once overlooked waste of steel cold rolling, specifically mill scale, into a lucrative revenue stream.

As a UAE based organisation, we are fully committed and continually reviewing our sustainability approach through further investment in eco-friendly infrastructure and technology. We look to take all our employees, partners, and customers with us on this journey, creating sustainability champions, through initiatives that educate, motivate and deliver results.