Entrepreneur Middle East | Special Edition - COP28 UAE | Action Builds Hope

DELIVERING HAPPINESS (SUSTAINABLY)/ Amazon P.20

CONSCIOUS DINING/ Sustainability in F&B P.48

GREEN INNOVATIONS/ Zayed Sustainability Prize 2023 P.58

November 2023 Entrepreneur.com

ACTION

BUILDS

HOPE SPECIAL EDITION

2 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 3

SAVE UP TO 25%

Until 29 March 2024

B OOK ON FA IR MON T.C OM

NestledNestled by thebycoast of Lusail sits sits the the the coast of Lusail splendor of Raffles and Fairmont Doha, splendor of Raffles and Fairmont Doha, where where luxury luxury is rooted in even the the is rooted in even smallest smallest details.details.

OpenOpen the the doorsdoors to to mesmerizing hospitality and make mesmerizing hospitality and make memories in a world of sophistication. memories in a world of sophistication.

MEMBER OF

MEMBER MEMBER OFOF

- THE LIMITLESS LOYALTY PROGRAMME

- THE - THE LIMITLESS LIMITLESS LOYALTY LOYALTY PROGRAMME PROGRAMME raffles.com/doha | fairmont.com/doha

raffles.com/doha raffles.com/doha | fairmont.com/doha | fairmont.com/doha

Launching Sequoia, your woodland paradise

Homes from

AED

1,696,000

*

*T&C apply

A peaceful enclave hidden within the woodland.

Choose from a range of well-appointed homes, from two-bedroom townhouses to six-bedroom signature villas.

Every residence at Sequoia blends nature-inspired design and features with the latest smart home technology, bringing you environmentally friendly convenience and comfort.

2 7 232

Contents/

November 2023

FEATURES P.14

Action Builds Hope

All you need to know as the world gets ready for COP28 in the UAE.

P.20

Delivering Happiness (Sustainably)

A look at how Amazon, the world’s most innovative company, is smashing its netzero goals with cutting-edge technology.

P.28

Leading Innovation

Bidfood Middle East CEO Hisham Aljamil on being a trailblazer in the foodservice industry

P.32

Making (Business) Sense Out Of Sustainability

In conversation with Farida El Agamy, co-founder and CEO of Kyma, a UAE-based startup that uses sustainability principles to reimagine, reengineer, and revolutionize home cleaning.

BIDFOOD Middle East CEO Hisham Aljamil

Welcome to the

EXCEPTIONAL An iconic hotel featuring luxury rooms and apartments with trendy dining options in the heart of Riyadh BOOK NOW

Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel 4248 Prince Mohammed Ibn Salman Ibn Abdulaziz Road, Riyadh 6721-13315, Saudi Arabia 00966118290900 info.mansard@radissoncollection.com radissonhotels.com/collection

Contents/

November 2023

Dima Samaan, Farida El Agamy, and Samar Sayegh, co-founders, Kyma

EDITOR IN CHIEF Aby Sam Thomas aby@bncpublishing.net CEO Wissam Younane wissam@bncpublishing.net DIRECTOR Rabih Najm rabih@bncpublishing.net ART DIRECTOR Simona El Khoury MANAGING EDITOR Tamara Pupic tamara@bncpublishing.net FEATURES WRITER Aalia Mehreen Ahmed aalia@bncpublishing.net DIGITAL SOLUTIONS DIRECTOR

Mahdi Hashemi mahdi@bncpublishing.net HEAD OF INNOVATION

Sarah Saddouk sarah@bncpublishing.net GROUP SALES DIRECTOR – B2B GROUP Joaquim D’Costa jo@bncpublishing.net COLUMNIST Tamara Clarke CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Fida Chaaban, Sameera Fernandes, Natasha Hatherall-Shawe, Lynne Jack, Brendan Keegan, Peter Milne, Seymone Moodley, Joe Steinwold

SUBSCRIBE

38 Making The Shift

Want to inspire sustainability in your business? Start by tweaking your company’s mission statement.

52 Shaping A Greener Future

Sameera Fernandes considers collaborative strategies for the financial sector.

40 For A Better Tomorrow

56 Keeping it real

44 Charting The Future

58 Green Innovations

Peter Milne on the need to integrate sustainability in our educational systems.

Lynne Jack explores how the UAE has emerged as a significant player in sustainable infrastructure development.

48 Conscious Dining

Joe Steinwold investigates the intersection of sustainability within the F&B industry.

Here’s why greenwashing isn’t a good way to go when it comes to PR around your ESG strategy.

Meet the finalists in the water category of this year’s Zayed Sustainability Prize.

62 Invent For Impact

Here are the winners of a sustainability-themed competition staged for university students

by BEEAH Education and Ajman University.

12 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

Contact subscriptions@bncpublishing.net to receive Entrepreneur Middle East every issue

COMMERCIAL ENQUIRIES sales@bncpublishing.net

ENTREPRENEUR.COM

Access fresh content daily on our website

EntMagazineME

Entrepreneur-me

PO BOX 502511 DUBAI, UAE P +971 4 4200 506

All Rights Reserved 2023. Opinions expressed are solely those of the contributors.

Entrepreneur Middle East and all subsidiary publications in the MENA region are officially licensed exclusively to BNC Publishing in the MENA region by Entrepreneur Media Inc. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the publisher. Images used in Entrepreneur Middle East are credited when necessary. Attributed use of copyrighted images with permission. All images not credited otherwise Shutterstock. Printed by United Printing and Publishing.

14 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

ACTION BUILDS

HOPE WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW AS THE WORLD GETS READY FOR COP28 IN THE UAE

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 15

Action builds

A

HOPE /

s the United Arab Emirates (UAE) gets set to host the 28th edition of the United Nations Climate Change Conference, more commonly known as COP28, here’s a comprehensive explainer to answer all your questions about this year’s most significant climate conference. Whether you’re curious about understanding the COP process, are contemplating attendance, or simply want to understand how to engage in this major event, this piece has got you covered! Read on to understand the historical significance of COP, what to expect at COP28, and what you need to know to actively participate in this crucial dialogue on climate action.

}WHAT IS COP? The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the main decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It brings together the 198 Parties –197 nations plus the European Union– that have signed on to the Framework Convention. The inaugural COP gathering took place in Berlin, Germany, in March 1995, and today, the COP secretariat is headquartered in Bonn.

COPs are hosted annually in different countries, under the auspices of the UNFCCC, with the UAE hosting COP28.

}HOW DOES THE COP PRESIDENCY ROTATE? The COP meets every year unless the Parties decide otherwise. The COP Presidency rotates among the five recognized UN regions- Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Central and Eastern Europe, and Western Europe and others. This rotation ensures that different corners of the world have the opportunity to host the COP, and showcase their commitment to addressing climate challenges.

16 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

}WHAT IS THE UNFCCC AND WHAT DOES IT DO?

The UNFCCC secretariat is the United Nations entity tasked with supporting the global response to the threat of climate change. The secretariat was established in 1992 when countries adopted the UNFCCC, and was originally based in Geneva, Switzerland before moving to Bonn in 1996. The secretariat initially focused on facilitating intergovernmental climate change negotiations. However, today, it plays a crucial role in supporting various bodies to implement the Convention, the Kyoto Protocol, and the Paris Agreement. This support includes offering technical expertise, analyzing climate change data reported by Parties, assisting with the Kyoto mechanisms’ implementation, and

CONTENT COURTESY COP28 UAE.

}WHY IS COP IMPORTANT? COPs serve as the formal meeting place each year for the Parties to negotiate and agree on how to tackle climate change, reduce emissions, and limit global warming. A primary task at COPs is the examination of national reports and emission inventories submitted by participating countries. These reports offer essential insights into each country’s actions and their progress toward achieving the overarching goals of the Convention.

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, COP28 President-Designate, UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change, and UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology

}WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO KEEP 1.5°C WITHIN REACH? The frequency and intensity of extreme

COPS SERVE AS THE FORMAL MEETING PLACE EACH YEAR FOR THE PARTIES TO NEGOTIATE AND AGREE ON HOW TO TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE, REDUCE EMISSIONS, AND LIMIT GLOBAL WARMING.

weather events and irreversible and permanent effects, like rising sea levels displacing populations, are expected to increase significantly unless we take substantial action to curb global temperatures. Scientists have reached a global consensus: we must limit the world’s average temperature rise to 1.5°C (equivalent to 2.7°F) above preindustrial levels to secure our future. This threshold is critical in preventing further degradation and avoiding potentially irreversible consequences.

}WHAT IS THE GLOBAL STOCKTAKE? The Global

Stocktake (GST), as outlined in Article 14 of the Paris Agreement, is a systematic process designed for nations and stakeholders to see where they are collectively making progress in achieving the objectives of the Paris Climate Change Agreement- and where they are not. This assessment involves a comprehensive review of all aspects related to global climate action and support, enabling the identification of shortcomings and the collaborative development of solutions, both for the immediate future and beyond 2030. COP28 is of particular significance as it marks the conclusion of the first GST since the Paris Agreement. Governments will take a decision on the GST at COP28, which can be leveraged to accelerate ambition in their next round of climate action plans due in 2025.

}WHEN IS COP28 UAE? The COP28 conference will maintaining the registry for Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. The secretariat also organizes and supports multiple negotiating sessions each year, as well as COPs.

}WHAT HAS HAPPENED SINCE COP BEGAN? WHAT IS THE KYOTO PROTOCOL? In 1997, at COP3 in Kyoto,

Japan, “developed” countries committed to limit and reduce greenhouse gas emissions– the first legally binding agreement on emissions. Known as the Kyoto Protocol, this entered into force in 2005, with 192 Parties signing up to it, and it remains a historic landmark in the fight against climate change.

take place in 2023 from November 30 to December 12 at Expo City Dubai. COP28 UAE will be a milestone moment for the world to unite around tangible climate action and deliver concrete solutions. Achieving this requires collaboration across civil society, government, industries and all sectors of the economy.

}WHO CAN PARTICIPATE IN COP28 UAE? COP28 UAE will be one of the largest and most important

}WHAT IS THE PARIS AGREEMENT? The 2015 Paris Agreement, adopted at COP21, marked the next major milestone in UN-led multilateral climate action. It mobilized global collective action to pursue efforts to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100, and to act to adapt to the already existing effects of climate change. The agreement asks countries to review commitments every five years, provide financing to developing countries to mitigate climate change, strengthen resilience, and enhance abilities to adapt to climate impacts.

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 17

Action builds

HOPE /

international gatherings in 2023, followed closely around the world. As the world’s highest decision-making process on climate issues, COP28 is expected to host over 70,000 delegates, including heads of }} state and world leaders, to build consensus and facilitate progress on climate action among parties, delegates and thousands of non-government organizations, companies, youth groups, and other stakeholders.

keeping 1.5°C within reach. The GST has shown us that we must reduce 22 gigatons of emissions before 2030. To hit these 2030 targets, we need urgent and decisive action at COP28. To achieve this, the COP28 Presidency developed its Action Plan with four key pillars: fast-tracking a just and orderly energy transition, fixing climate finance, focusing on people, nature, lives and livelihoods, and fostering inclusivity.

}HOW HAS THE UAE SUPPORTED THE COP PROCESS?

}WHAT IS THE COP28 PRESIDENCY RESPONSIBLE FOR? The

Situated in a region where heat is extreme and water is precious, the UAE has long viewed climate change as a challenge that must be overcome. Since its inception in 1971, the UAE has supported the global climate agenda, ratifying both the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. COP28 President, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, has attended 11 COPs, and he led the UAE’s engagement at COP21 in Paris. As a regional leader in the energy and sustainability sectors, the UAE has grown and diversified its economy, creating knowledge, skills, and jobs for its young people, while contributing practical solutions to a global problem that affects us all.

}WHAT IS THE COP28 PRESIDENTIAL ACTION AGENDA? The COP28 Presidency conducted one of the most extensive engagement and listening tours of any presidency, along with the first ever open consultation for the two-week agenda at COP28. Its Action Agenda is guided by a single North Star:

18 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

COP28 Presidency has been playing the lead role in the preparations for the summit, rallying countries across the world to raise their ambition, to make new promises, and deliver on old ones.

}WHAT ARE THE THEMES OF COP28, AND WHAT DO THEY MEAN? The COP28 Presidency has taken an innovative and

inclusive approach to the two-week program for COP28. It is the first Presidency to hold an open consultation on thematic areas and sequencing. The program highlights the sectors and topics that stakeholders repeatedly raised during consultations, including both annual fixtures of the COP agenda such as energy and finance, and new, essential topics like health, trade and relief, recovery, and peace.

The thematic days’ programming also incorporates four crosscutting themes that underpin effective, interconnected delivery: Technology and Innovation, Inclusion, Frontline

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

Communities, and Finance. The COP28 Presidency has been working in collaboration with women, indigenous peoples, local communities, youth, people of determination, subnational actors, and faith-based organizations to ensure their contributions are included throughout the programs and outcomes.

COP28 will also host a historic number of parliamentarians, mayors and local leaders.

}HOW WILL COP28 BE STRUCTURED?

COPs are organized into two distinctive areas called the Blue and Green Zones.

The Blue Zone is a UNFCCC-managed site that is only open to UN-accredited participants. There is an online registration system for accreditation. People who can attend the Blue Zone are world leaders, representatives from 198 Parties (countries), and official Observers- UN Agencies, intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and media. The Blue Zone will host the formal negotiations across the two weeks of the conference, as well as the World Climate Action Summit, Global Climate Action Hub, pavilions, presidency events, and hundreds of side events, including panel discussions, roundtables, and cultural events.

While the Blue Zone is closed to non-UNFCCC accredited individuals, the Green Zone is managed and delivered by the COP28 UAE Presidency, and is open to everyone. It offers a platform for different groups, including

youth groups, civil society, NGOs, the private sector, and indigenous people to have their voices heard, promoting dialogue and awareness about climate action.

The Green Zone will have curated content programming, aligned with thematic days, conferences, panel discussions, talks, presentations, and more. It will also have a Youth Hub, a place for youth to discuss, collaborate and network on climate change solutions. A Civil Societies Hub will host presentations, activations and discussion on the part civil societies play in climate change solutions. There will also be Arts and Cultural Programming that will demonstrate climate change and solutions through various art mediums. There will also be three distinct hub themes for sponsors and partners to showcase ideas, solutions, and innovation.

COP28 UAE WILL BE A MILESTONE MOMENT FOR THE WORLD TO UNITE AROUND TANGIBLE CLIMATE ACTION AND DELIVER CONCRETE SOLUTIONS.

}HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED WITH COP28? Members of the public can

take part in Green Zone activities by expressing their interest and registering at https://www.cop28.com/en/ get-involved.

}WHERE DO I FIND OUT MORE? For

further information, you can stay updated by visiting www.cop28.com, and by following COP28’s social media channels on X (https://twitter.com/ COP28_UAE), Instagram (https:// www.instagram.com/cop28uaeofficial), and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin. com/company/cop28uaeofficial).

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 19

Action builds

HOPE /

The Spheres at Amazon’s headquarters in Seattle, Washington.

20 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

Amazon is blazing a trail to net-zero carbon by 2040 that stretches the globe, including the MENA region.

Delivering Happiness (sustainably)

A look at how AMAZON, the world’s most innovative company, is smashing its net-zero goals with cutting-edge technology b y TA M A R A C L A R K E

A

mazon has come a long way from its humble beginnings in the garage of Jeff Bezos’ rented home in Bellevue, Washington.

Today, the mammoth multinational company is often referred to as one of the most influential economic and cultural forces in the world. With its focus on e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, Amazon has also emerged as an industry leader in the global quest to curb climate change.

In 2019, Amazon co-founded The Climate Pledge with Global Optimism (the purpose-driven enterprise focused on social and environmental change founded in 2017 by Tom Rivett-Carnac and Christiana Figueres after the pair departed the United Nations, after having successfully secured the historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change), and it then became the first company to sign the pledge, which outlines a commitment to reach net-zero carbon by 2040.

Signatories to The Climate Pledge agree to regularly measure and report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, implement decarbonization strategies in line with the Paris Agreement, and neutralize any remaining emissions with credible offsets to achieve net-zero by 2040. It thus brings together the world’s top companies to accelerate joint action, cross-sector collaboration and responsible change. A series of technological advancements have positioned Amazon to not only meet The Climate Pledge, but to }} November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 21

Action builds

HOPE /

“ With its focus on e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, Amazon has emerged as an industry leader in the global quest to curb climate change.” also serve as a catalyst for its partners and industry counterparts to do the same.

Here’s one example of how the company is furthering sustainability in its operations. Amazon relies

on a complex transportation network to get products from manufacturers and sellers to customers around the globe. Today, the company is decarbonizing every step of the journey -which ranges from global transportation between factories and ports, to last mile delivery between delivery stations and customers- by increasing fleet efficiency, expanding the use of low-carbon fuels, and scaling electric and alternative-fuel vehicles.

Inbound transportation is the first leg of this journey, and it essentially refers to shipments across international borders. Besides increasing its use of biofuels for this purpose, Amazon is also scaling back air freight in favor of ocean freight (which has lower carbon intensity) to reduce carbon emissions in this phase of transport.

Another area of interest is middle mile transportation,

Udit Madan, Vice President of Transportation at Amazon

which is the movement of shipments between Amazon facilities, particularly covering long-haul distances. While trucking is a challenging area to decarbonize, Amazon is up for the challenge, with it experimenting with lower carbon options such as trucks powered by renewable natural gas, electric battery trucks, as well as hydrogen-powered trucks.

Finally, we have last mile transportation, which is

Amazon’s partnership with Rivian will see the latter design and order 100,000 custom electric delivery vehicles for the company’s deliveries throughout the US.

22 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

where Amazon has made its greatest strides towards The Climate Pledge. This refers to the final part of the journey when products are transported to the customer.

Here, Amazon is working to decarbonize its last mile fleet by utilizing lower emission options such as electric delivery vehicles and electric cargo bikes.

While speaking about the company’s logistical transformation at this year’s edition of Amazon’s annual Delivering the Future event in Seattle, Washington, Udit Madan, Vice President of Transportation, also noted that all companies can and should take a leading role in climate action, because no one company can solve this crisis on their own. “We’re working with new companies who have technologies that will allow us to innovate, and often times, those companies are Climate Pledge signatories such as Orsted, Rivian, and Maersk,” Madan said.

“There is a lot of groundbreaking work being done to electrify our last mile fleet. Just a few years ago, we established a partnership with Rivian to bring 100,000 custom electric delivery vans to the road by 2030. That idea, and what started as a simple sketch, has turned into the electric delivery vehicles you see on the road today.”

It was in 2019 that Amazon announced its partnership with Rivian (an American company that “exists to create products and services that help our planet transition to carbon neutral energy and transportation”) to design and order 100,000 custom

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

electric delivery vehicles for the company’s deliveries throughout the U.S. The first of those vehicles were rolled out in 2022, with the plan being to deploy all 100,000 of them by 2030. The custom electric delivery vehicles are packed with innovative safety, navigation, and design features, and the new fleet is projected to help Amazon eliminate millions of metric tons of carbon per year.

“When we signed that deal with Rivian, it was the first of its kind, and it helped spur demand within the transportation industry,” Madan added. “Transportation is a sector that requires transformation and collaboration across industry partners, peers, and, in some cases, policy leaders, to fully decarbonize. Many low-carbon solutions don’t exist yet today at scale, and in order to scale and expand low-carbon solutions into other areas like air freight and cargo shipping, we need collective, industry-wide action to act as a catalyst for greater infrastructure development, increased investment, and new incentives for growth. This is what The Climate Pledge is all about.”

Amazon has already rolled out more than 10,000 electric delivery vehicles from Rivian across the US– this has been billed the fastest rollout of an electric delivery fleet of this scale.

Since launching this rollout last year, Amazon has delivered more than 260 million packages in these zero-emission vehicles, and it has also installed over 12,000 chargers across 100 delivery stations in the US. Outside of America, thousands of electric vehicles including delivery vans, e-cargo bikes, and e-rickshaws have also been deployed across Europe and India as well.

In the meantime, partnerships continue to pave the way to net zero as Amazon works with its suppliers to improve and reduce product packaging. Consequently, companies such as SC Johnson are doing their bit to reduce packaging by designing specifically for e-commerce delivery.

The result is smaller, lighter packages that take up less space during

Amazon’s roll-out of more than 10,000 electric delivery vehicles from Rivian across the US has been declared to be the fastest rollout of an electric delivery fleet of this scale.

“AMAZON HAS ALREADY ROLLED OUT MORE THAN 10,000 ELECTRIC DELIVERY VEHICLES FROM RIVIAN ACROSS THE US.” transport, therefore resulting in fewer carbon emissions. “Since SC Johnson has been partnering with Amazon, we determined that the best solution for shipping and product packaging is the simplest solution you can trust,” said Brian Tippett, Executive Director of Global Marketing at SC Johnson. “We took a lot of runs at this, and ultimately came up with something incredibly simple and intuitive thanks to our partnership with Amazon.”

Now, all of this might seem inconse-

quential, but it’s worth noting here that products go through a packaging journey even before they ever hit the road on the way to consumers. SC Johnson has thus turned its attention to this part of the process to reduce material waste, optimize packaging, and streamline processing. “A product like American glass cleaner Windex, for example, could go through as many as five stops on the way to your doorstep,” Tippett explained. “From the time we manufacture it, we might repackage it to get it ready to go through e-commerce. Then, we distribute it, and there are several touches at Amazon to get it to your doorstep. With every single touch, it picks up a little something extra. It picks up a piece of tape, or it picks up some bubble wrap, a plastic bag, or a new box. This adds a lot of waste to products just to make sure it’s protected as it travels to your doorstep.”

“Packaging for this product was an incredible concern for us, because we spent a significant amount of time developing it,” Tippett continued. “We source plastic from within 31 miles of the ocean, and we recycle it to create Windex bottles. 100% of the plastic is recycled. The challenge for us is that we then take that plastic bottle, and }} November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 23

Action builds

HOPE /

“ MACHINE LEARNING HELPS US DETERMINE WHICH PRODUCTS ARE SUITABLE FOR FLEXIBLE PACKAGING, SUCH AS PADDED MAILERS AND BAGS, WHICH ARE UP TO 75% LIGHTER THAN SIMILAR-SIZED BOXES.” cover it in a plastic bag and bubble-wrap, and that’s an incredible disappointment.

So, as an organization, we had to find a better way. We were so incredibly dissatisfied with the situation that we had to get out of our comfort zone, and rebuild the business from scratch.

Now, our new Windex product packaging is perfect

just Windex in a box, and by packaging and shipping it in this offers protection, so that it does not leak or break during transport.”

By partnering with Amazon, SC Johnson has thus eliminated waste and improved the way its product shows up on doorsteps. The move also improved efficiency, as SC

ment system without having to be repackaged and staged. Windex thus comes to its consumers in a much more efficient way, but it’s only the first of many products that SC Johnson intends to innovate and improve with the help of Amazon. In fact, this is a growing trend amongst other Amazon suppliers.

Amazon’s partnerships with companies like SC Johnson are helping reduce packaging for products by designing them specifically for e-commerce delivery, as was done for one of the latter’s products, Windex.

for shipping. The bottle is made from 100% recycled legal cardboard, and it’s 100% recyclable. It is really, really simple. It is literally

Johnson makes the packaging on the same manufacturing line, and the Windex bottles now go through Amazon’s fulfill-

24 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

In 2022, 11% of all packages shipped globally were without added Amazon delivery packaging.

Furthermore, since 2015,

Patrick Lindner, Vice President of Mechatronics and Sustainable Packaging at Amazon

the weight of packaging per shipment has been reduced by 41%, avoiding more than two million tons of material waste. And Amazon has been able to achieve such remarkable feats through the use of cutting-edge technology. “Machine learning helps us determine which products are suitable for flexible packaging, such as padded mailers and bags, which are up to 75% lighter than similar-sized boxes,” Madan said. “Over the past six years, these algorithms have contributed to reducing the use of corrugate boxes by 39% in North America and Europe.

We also introduced algorithms designed to reduce packaging specifically for shipments with multiple items, which decreased the weight of packaging for 7% of shipments in North America since launching in 2018.”

Patrick Lindner, Vice President of Mechatronics and Sustainable Packaging at Amazon, adds here that the company makes packaging decisions for customers based on three primary factors. “Number one is to make sure that the product arrives undamaged, number two is to minimize the amount of empty space

IMAGES COURTESY AMAZON

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

in that package, and the third is to make that package recyclable,” he explained. “Consequently, Amazon engineers have now developed a brand-new technology. A new machine measures the dimensions of the product, and it then creates the right-size package to help us minimize waste. This cardboard was specifically chosen for its ability to be flexible enough to be built around a package, and it was tested to ensure that despite its flexibility and lightness, it will still protect the product during delivery. The machine in question previously created plastic packaging, and it now uses a built-in sensor to identify the right size for non-padded of paper packaging.

Amazon has also developed a special paper that stretches, is weather-resistant, and has the ability to be heat sealed.”

Amazon’s automated fulfillment center in Euclid, Ohio, is the first in the US to fully replace plastic delivery packaging with paper packaging solutions that are curbside recyclable.

Most retailers use a mix of plastic and paper packaging to optimize for durability, while also being lightweight and of optimal size; however, recycling plastic packaging generally requires a drop-off or collection subscription. As such, the new paper solutions will allow many customers to recycle Amazon packaging right at home.

REGIONAL STRIDES TO NET-ZERO Amazon is blazing a trail to net-zero carbon by 2040

Amazon drone delivery will enable even faster deliveries to customers, with the potential to increase overall safety and efficiency in the transportation network.

The Spheres are an alternative work space on Amazon’s Seattle campus. The building features an indoor plant conservatory with 40,000 plants from the cloud forest regions of more than 30 countries.

that stretches the globe, including the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. In 2021, Amazon MENA inaugurated its first on-site renewable energy project in MENA- a solar rooftop at Amazon’s largest fulfillment center in the UAE, DXB3. The 5,565panel rooftop will generate on-site solar energy to power 60% of DXB3’s energy demands- the highest permitted capacity in the UAE. The project is estimated to save 4.6 million kilowatt-hours of energy annually. This is also expected to reduce carbon

dioxide emissions by 2,500 tons each year, equivalent to planting more than 40,000 tree seedlings.

Prashant Saran, Director of Operations for Amazon MENA said, “As we continue to grow in the region, we believe that it is our duty to act responsibly from day one. Our MENA sustainability roadmap embodies our commitment towards building an environmentally sustainable

business, not just to reduce the impact of climate change, but to also support the communities where we live and work. We encourage likeminded technology partners and local businesses to design and deliver innovative solutions to combat climate change. The inauguration of DXB3’s solar rooftop is an important milestone on our path to The Climate Pledge vision to be net-zero }}

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 25

Action builds

HOPE /

carbon by 2040, and addresses one of the three core areas for carbon reduction across our operations, i.e. energy, transportation and packaging.”

At a time when the region is gearing up for the 28th edition of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in the UAE, it’s important to note Amazon’s plans to continue making strides when it comes to efforts in climate action in the region. For one, Amazon has stated its commitment to having all its fulfillment centers in MENA powered by renewable energy up to the maximum permissible capacity. In fact, following DXB3 in the UAE, two

more energy efficient facilities in Saudi Arabia and Egypt were established.

Meanwhile, in line with the region’s ambitions to switch to low carbon transportation, Amazon will transform its transportation fleet in MENA through new technology, equipment, electric vehicles, and alternative fuel, as well as with the introduction of new delivery models that get packages to customers more sustainably.

At the same time, as governments in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt make efforts to reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfills, Amazon is working to reinvent and simplify packaging in line with its global goal of carbon-neutral shipments by 2040. Reducing the

Amazon’s automated fulfillment center in Euclid, Ohio, is the first in the US to fully replace plastic delivery packaging with paper packaging solutions that are curbside recyclable.

26 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

“ Our MENA sustainability roadmap embodies our commitment towards building an environmentally sustainable business, not just to reduce the impact of climate change, but to also support the communities where we live and work.” carbon footprint of each Amazon parcel requires collaboration with partners to reduce packaging waste.

That said, Amazon has already expanded its “Ships

In Own Container” (i.e. shipping in the product’s original packaging without the need for an Amazon box) program to 12% of shipments in the UAE, and 10% in Saudi Arabia in 2021. In addition, Amazon leverages advanced machine learning models to continue to optimize its packaging to reduce the size and weight of boxes, resulting in fewer delivery trips.

Such efforts are an indication of how committed Amazon is to achieving net-zero carbon by 2040 across all of its business. It doesn’t matter where in the world its customers are located- with the best technology and innovation at its disposal, Amazon will continue delivering happiness– but sustainably, of course.

‫ﺳـﺠــــــﻠـﻮا اﻵن ‪REGISTER NOW‬‬ ‫�‬ ‫‪KNOWLEDGESUMMIT.ORG‬‬

‫‪ 22-21‬ﻧـــــﻮﻓــﻤــــﺒــــــﺮ‬

‫‪21–22 NOVEMBER‬‬

‫ﻣﺮﻛﺰ دﺑﻲ اﻟﺘﺠﺎري اﻟﻌﺎﻟﻤﻲ‬

‫‪DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE‬‬

‫‪ 23‬ﻧـــــﻮﻓــﻤــــﺒـــــﺮ‬

‫‪23 NOVEMBER‬‬

‫ﺟﻠـﺴـــﺎت اﻓﺘــﺮاﺿــﻴــﺔ‬ ‫‪VIRTUAL‬‬

Action builds

HOPE /

IMAGES COURTESY BIDFOOD MIDDLE EAST

“It takes heart, dedication, consistency, learning from mistakes, and above all, a genuine passion for the business.”

28 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

LEADING INNOVATION

Bidfood Middle East CEO HISHAM ALJAMIL on being a trailblazer in the foodservice industry b y S E Y M O N E M O O D L E Y

I

n the bustling landscape of the Middle East’s food distribution industry, Bidfood stands as a pioneer, weaving a narrative of disruption, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability.

Bidfood has been a trailblazer- it was the first to introduce industry-altering concepts such as HORECA to the sector back in 2003, and more recently, the groundbreaking myBidfood, the region’s first-ever e-distribution platform in 2020.

As we sit down with Bidfood Middle East’s CEO Hisham Aljamil, the visionary leader paints a vivid picture of the company’s journey, and its role in shaping the future of food and beverage distribution. Three key channels are highlighted as the compass for the future: governance, localization, and sustainability.

These avenues also open doors for attracting talent, ensuring business stability, and forging meaningful partnerships.

Hisham Aljamil, Chief Executive Officer, Bidfood Middle East

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 29

Action builds

HOPE /

B

idfood, a global entity under the Bidcorp umbrella, is thus portrayed not only as a business powerhouse, but as a decentralized force with a penchant for acquisitions, averaging an impressive seven per year across five continents. In the Middle East, Bidfood reigns as the leading partner to the foodservice channel, born two decades ago in the UAE, and then expanding its footprint across markets in KSA, Oman, Bahrain, and Jordan.

Aljamil reflects on the company’s evolution since their helm, emphasizing a singular focus on becoming the paramount partner to the F&B industry. This mission spurred the creation of an entrepreneurial environment, fostering innovation and growth within the organization.

The unwavering commitment to clients, sustainable brand partnerships, and a pivotal role in community building underscore the CEO’s leadership philosophy.

Bidfood’s commitment to sustainability is not just a

30 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

tagline; it’s ingrained in the company’s DNA. The initial intention to streamline deliveries for efficiency has evolved into a holistic approach. Sustainability now permeates the organisation’s culture, promoting diversity and giving back to society through various initiatives.

L

ooking ahead, Bidfood anticipates trends that include a focus on sustainable products, digital integration, local sourcing, and a rich infusion of multi-cultural and diverse cuisines. The company positions itself as a frontrunner, integrating the myBidfood digital platform, sourcing from over 60 countries, and launching innovative products like Impossible and Onlyegg, ensuring chefs have a one-stop-shop for their culinary creations.

In the face of the unprecedented challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bidfood faced a double-edged sword. Navigating the hospitality-focused challenges

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

LOOKING TO THE HORIZON, BIDFOOD HINTS AT UPCOMING PROJECTS, EXPANSIONS, AND

PARTNERSHIPS. required resilience and adaptability. Aljamil recounts the rollercoaster ride, from overstock challenges to a sector-wide drop of over 50%.

However, the experience reinforced the idea that people are the backbone of any business, and solidarity and teamwork can weather any storm.

A

s Bidfood spans its presence across multiple countries in the Middle East, Aljamil ensures that all mechanisms are in place to ensure consistent quality and service.

Despite physical distances, a committed and connected team, shared values, and the myBidfood platform ensured a seamless experience for customers across different markets.

In a glimpse into the CEO’s leadership approach, humility and leading by example emerge as core values. The belief that people leave businesses, not the other way around, underscores the interconnectedness of the Bidfood team, partner brands, customers, and the foodservice industry. Innovation is not just a department’s job; it’s a collective responsibility for everyone.

For aspiring entrepreneurs entering the dynamic food distribution industry, Aljamil offers sage advice: it takes heart, dedication, consistency, learning from mistakes, and above all, a genuine passion for the business.

Bidfood’s commitment to corporate social responsibility echoes loudly. Beyond mere lip service, the company collaborates with governmental

institutions, engages in volunteer programs, and emphasizes best practices to reduce carbon emissions across the logistical value chain.

Sponsorships become a vehicle for giving back to society through the brands in Bidfood’s extensive portfolio.

D

iversity and dynamism define Bidfood’s workforce, and Aljamil shares insights into fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation. Inclusiveness spans gender, race, and thought, coupled with training and development to instill a growth mindset from within. Transparency and empowerment cut across all organisational grades.

Looking to the horizon, Bidfood hints at upcoming projects, expansions, and partnerships. Geographic expansion, value-adding opportunities, and a disproportionate focus on expanding the e-commerce presence across the region are on the company’s agenda.

Outside the boardroom, Aljamil unveils personal passions that balance the demanding role of a business leader. Family time, playing padel, a love for the sea, and indulging in reading provide the necessary equilibrium for a leader driving innovation in the competitive world of food distribution.

In the pages of Bidfood’s story, disruption is not merely a buzzword; it’s a commitment to reshaping an industry. As the company looks ahead, the narrative is one of innovation, sustainability, and a community-centric approach, with Aljamil steering the ship towards a future where Bidfood is not just a market player, but a tech-driven force shaping the Middle East’s foodservice landscape.

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 31

Action builds

HOPE /

IMAGES COURTESY BANG & OLUFSEN

Kyma co-founders Dima Samaan, Farida El Agamy, and Samar Sayegh

32 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

Making (business) sense out of sustainability Farida El Agamy, co-founder and CEO of Kyma, a UAE-based startup that uses sustainability principles to reimagine, reengineer, and revolutionize home cleaning b y TA M A R A P U P I C

A

s we come closer to the UAE’s hosting of the 28th edition of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), it’s interesting to see how the government has been advancing the sustainability agenda within the country over the past couple of years. A noteworthy element of this development has been in the creation of a great number of new, sustainability-focused startups popping up in the country, despite their often capital-intensive nature.

“Setting up a manufacturing startup is a significant challenge in and of itself,” admits Farida El Agamy, co-founder and CEO of Kyma, a UAE-based startup that’s disrupting the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry with its innovative, sustainable, affordable, and efficient cleaning products.

“It differs substantially from launching a company with digital products or relying on contract manufacturing for a product. Manufacturing demands substantial initial investments, and access to talent and technical expertise that can sometimes be challenging to secure.”

Kyma offers its surface cleaning solutions in the form of cleaning tablets that are to be dissolved in refillable and reusable bottles provided by the company.

“ Our core mission has consistently revolved around manufacturing, while adhering to the principles of sustainable business.”

El Agamy has been a part of the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem since 2008, perhaps best known for her role as the General Manager of the Tharawat Family Business Forum, a knowledge resource and networking hub for family-owned companies in the MENA region. In 2020, she teamed up with Dima Samaan and

Samar Sayegh -who became CMO and COO of Kyma respectively- to launch their enterprise with an overarching aim to battle the global problem of plastic pollution.

But how does the company do this? Well, Kyma offers its surface cleaning solutions in the form of cleaning tablets that are to be dissolved in a refillable

and reusable bottle provided by the companywhich thus becomes “the only one [bottle] you will ever need” at least when it comes to your household chores. “Our core mission has consistently revolved around manufacturing, while adhering to the principles of sustainable business,” El Agamy adds.

“This commitment has driven us to develop our processes and procedures with a focus on lean management, incorporating technology to prevent resource wastage, and manage our environmental impact from day one.”

Although the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) states that the world could slash plastic pollution by 80% }}

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 33

Action builds

HOPE /

by 2040, it also records that plastic production levels have soared over the past few decades, especially single-use plastic. To make it worse, it is expected that the global production of plastic might triple by 2060, leading to devastating consequences for the planet. To combat this grim scenario, the UNEP report envisages three main strategies: reuse, recycling, and alternative materials.

Out of the three, reusing plastics might have the greatest impact, and the UNEP report presents it as the most “powerful market shift” with a potential to reduce plastic pollution by 30% by 2040. And it is in this particular area that Kyma is making progress in the UAE- slowly but surely.

All of Kyma’s products are ISO 9001 and ISO 22716 certified, which recognize the startup’s adherence to the highest level of quality control and safety regulations, and they also carry

the Good Manufacture Practice (GMP) Certificate issued by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.

Kyma is also a member of the SME Climate Hub, a non-profit global initiative that empowers SMEs to take climate action, which means that it is an enterprise committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2030, and that it is actively working towards this goal.

Looking at environmental sustainability from a business perspective, El Agamy says that while the issue of “greenwashing” will always exist, businesses are increasingly opting to use sustainable practices in their operations, and this is because they have been shown to play a significant role in overall risk management and mitigation, enhancing attractiveness to top talent, and facilitating access to capital. “While one could argue that these might not be the ideal

Kyma products come with one reusable bottle –“the only one you will ever need”– and cleaning tablets that are affordable, easy to stock, and sustainable.

34 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

reasons to embrace sustainable practices, we believe that adding environmental, economic, or social principles to the average board agenda due to their business sense is a win for society as a whole,” she says. “At Kyma, like many other companies, we place sustainability at the core of our mission. This means that it informs every decision we make within the company. While this approach can sometimes lead to challenging conversations, it’s a journey to which we are fully committed, and we firmly believe it enhances the commercial success of our enterprise.”

Back in 2020 when they launched Kyma, El Agamy and her co-founders made the decision to first focus on research and development, product formulation, and establishing its factory and laboratory. Two years later -in January 2022- the company recorded its first sale. This year, 2023, has also brought a new milestone through expansion into brick-and-mortar stores across the UAE. “Perhaps most importantly, through our customers’ participation in the ‘Refillution’ [Kyma’s campaign to reimagine, reengineer, and revolutionize home cleaning], we’ve collectively prevented more than 10,000 plastic bottles from ending up in landfills in just the past year alone,” El Agamy adds. Meanwhile, El Agamy’s personal journey with Kyma proves that the UAE has been taking important steps to support sustainable entrepreneurs. “Our factory and development lab,

'TREP TALK Tips for entrepreneurs from Kyma CEO Farida El Agamy }Find an issue you’re

passionate about- and then try to solve it “Identify one or two key areas of concern that you're passionate about addressing, rather than attempting to tackle everything simultaneously.” }Don’t go at it alone- build your tribe “Engage and empower your team to assist in addressing these issues, and seek guidance from experts when needed.” }Never lose sight of the big picture “Developing a clear roadmap with achievable goals will not only motivate your teams, but it will also provide a compelling narrative to share with customers, while also raising awareness about other areas that require attention.” }Innovation is key “Continuously enhance your processes and procedures.

Although it might seem daunting, we've observed how much more efficiently our company can operate by consistently evaluating our energy consumption, raw material use, packaging, and overall office processes. The good news is that increased efficiency also translates to cost savings.” } Embed sustainability into the way you do business “Examine your products and services, and explore ways to make them more sustainable and eco-friendly. You might be surprised by what you discover, and it could potentially lead to the identification of new markets or even entirely new business models!”

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

IMAGES COURTESY KYMA

“ DEVELOPING A CLEAR ROADMAP WITH ACHIEVABLE GOALS WILL NOT ONLY MOTIVATE YOUR TEAMS, BUT IT WILL ALSO PROVIDE A COMPELLING NARRATIVE TO SHARE WITH CUSTOMERS.” located in Sharjah, have played crucial roles in our journey, and we’ve grown our team to include ten employees,” El Agamy says.

“Currently, our product range consists of ten distinct items, built upon four core cleaning products, and we’re gearing up to introduce two more cleaning solutions soon.”

Establishing a manufacturing business inevitably

brings a great deal of trial and error, and El Agamy explains that finding the right talent for Kyma’s R&D team was one of her biggest hurdles. “Initially, we had assumed that recruiting a chemist to develop our formulations and lead our R&D department would be a straightforward task, but reality proved otherwise,” she says.

“It took us months to locate

Kyma products are ISO 9001 and ISO 22716 certified.

our first chemist, and to this day, adding or replacing members of our scientific team remains a formidable challenge. This experience has emphasized the importance of becoming an attractive employer.”

El Agamy also recounts encountering obstacles relating to packaging. “As a sustainable startup with non-toxic cleaning tablets, we needed to use specific packaging materials to maintain product effectiveness while minimizing waste,” she says. “Sourcing these materials has been quite an odyssey, especially given our lack of scale compared to large FMCG companies, making access to eco-friendly packaging a challenging endeavor.”

One effective solution in this regard proved to be engaging with manufacturing startups in the UAE and the region, exploring opportunities for collaborative sourcing to benefit from collective scale.

“Through these obstacles, we’ve learned the significance of staying closely connected to our ecosystem, adhering to clear goals and principles, and remaining highly adaptable in the face of challenges.” El Agamy adds. “Our fundamental principle is to ensure that every customer has the option to purchase sustainable products without compromising on quality, experience, or paying extra. This goal strengthens our resilience, and reinforces our determination as we confront new challenges. Ultimately, we recognize that we are part of a disruptive movement, and that path is never an easy one.”

Today, as El Agamy witnesses numerous businesses embracing sustainable principles, and the UAE continuing with evolving its regulatory framework and strong governmental support for a more sustainable private sector, the entrepreneur wishes the spotlight to also be thrown on artisans, who are often an overlooked part of this domain. “It’s heartening to see that support for the artisanal sector extends to the broader MENA region,” El Agamy concludes. “Artisans are the ultimate sustainable businesses in many ways: they preserve heritage, typically utilize naturebased raw materials, and maintain close ties with their social networks. In the end, it’s crucial to maintain a broad perspective on what sustainability means in the private sector, its potential contributions, and the transformative possibilities it holds for the future.”

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 35

Action builds

HOPE /

Making the Shift Want to inspire sustainability in your business? Start by tweaking your company’s mission statement b y B R E N D A N P. K E E G A N

by ANNABEL HARPER

C

ompanies have vision statements that summarize their values for a reasonemployees that get on board with your mission and vision tend to work harder for you, and according to the Dale Carnegie institute, companies with engaged workers outperform competitors by 202%.

Still, as the current focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) demonstrates, times change. You’ll have to update your vision to keep pace with this new ESG focus, but as little as one word can be all you need to improve your relevancy and influence.

38 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

Keep it brief (and built into everything) Good vision statements are memorable. To achieve that memorability, your best bet is to keep your new, ESG-oriented vision statement as brief as possible.

Take Cisco. If they had written something like “to build voice-over-internet-protocol systems that utilize the most advanced internet connection technologies, are the best in the industry, and return a great value to our shareholders,” people probably wouldn’t have given the words more than a quick skim before moving on to something more interesting.

Their actual vision, “changing the way we work, live, play and learn,” is more to the point and free of jargon. It gets across that Cisco wants to be a change agent, and that it understands the significance of connection and communication in our world.

At Merchants Fleet, the enterprise I lead as Chairman, CEO, and President, we adhered to this rule of simplicity first by consolidating the multiple vision statements we had for different areas of the business into just one: “enabling the movement of people, goods and services freely.” To update this for ESG later on, we added a single word: “responsibly.”

That said, once you have a concise vision statement that incorporates some ESG values, you’re not done.

You then have to go back and look at all the training and messaging your company has. Are the ESG values there too?

Ensuring that the values are consistently visible in everything you do supports buy-in to the vision statement, because it shows your team that you’re serious about the ESG shift, and are going to follow it up with a real plan of action. At the same time, the concise vision statement helps workers understand why you’re approaching the training and messaging the way you are.

Perspective -and keeping promisesmatter When we added the word “responsibly” to our vision to ensure it had an ESG focus, we recognized a critical point- “responsibly” means different things to different people.

If our business suddenly got rid of every gas vehicle we’ve got, it would seem responsible to clients who are fully behind electric cars, vans, and trucks. But it would seem irresponsible to clients who don’t have a lot of charging stations around, or who have to travel distances that are still beyond the range of an electric vehicle (EV). For one of our clients, it didn’t make financial sense to try to install the infrastructure EVs would have required.

In the same way, our company’s diversity profiles in New Hampshire and Chicago are very different. In New Hampshire, our profile is at 5% diversity, yet that’s higher than the New Hampshire average. In Chicago, we’re 45% diverse, simply because that area

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

READ THIS ARTICLE IN ITS ENTIRETY ON ENTREPRENEUR.COM.

is more diverse overall. To require 45% diversity would seem responsible in Chicago, but near impossible in New Hampshire.

So, as you adapt for ESG, be careful to give the word or words you add careful thought, and avoid absolutes, even as you push for something that’s still specific. The words should be acceptable and understandable on a broad level, but they should also be flexible enough that you can still meet the needs and expectations of your entire base. They shouldn’t alienate anyone, including your employees.

Similarly, make sure that your mission statement is realistic and attainable. If you choose a word that makes it impossible to follow through on your promise, customers will see that you’re not doing what you said, and lose faith in you.

For instance, suppose you’re an airline company. If you added the phrase “on

time” to your mission statement, you’d be opening the door to a massive number of complaints, as there are just too many variables around airlines to promise you’ll hit every time point perfectly. If you add “safely,” though, that’s much easier to achieve consistently.

The best practice is to aim for something that’s timeless, and a little better than what you had previously. Leave buzzwords and trends on the shelf, because the more you change your vision statement, the less memorable or sticky it will be.

The journey, action, and accountability are all ongoing Keeping in mind that there’s a connection between your ESG vision statement and the practices of your company, consider your vision statement an ongoing journey. Revisit it on a regular basis to make sure it still works for you in an authentic way.

“ Keeping in mind that there’s a connection between your ESG vision statement and the practices of your company, consider your vision statement an ongoing journey.”

Any time you tweak your statement and add more words, make sure you have an execution plan and accountability. When we added “responsibly” to Merchants Fleet’s vision statement, we were clear that we were adding an

ESG team. But your moves could also include reorganizing, doing more training, or developing checks and balances.

Expect to sum up what you’re doing -and the results you’re getting- in reports along the way. The rule is to understand that you’re signing up to develop new goals, and take additional action with whatever you add.

ESG can deliver both stability and positive change Even though ESG is getting more press than it used to, it’s something great companies have always practiced, and the need to connect your ethics to your action will always be relevant.

ESG values can ground your business through multiple generations in a powerful way. At the same time, they can help you continuously explore how you can still grow to be a larger help to everyone around you. If you integrate those values into your vision statement, which is the foundation for everything you do, you’ll get the buy-in necessary for the positive change you want .

Brendan P. Keegan serves as Chairman, CEO, and President at Merchants Fleet, and he was recently named the World’s Most Innovative CEO

by CEO World Awards. Keegan is also the silver winner of Executive of the Year by Best in Biz Awards, and a Stevie Awards bronze winner by American Business Awards. merchantsfleet.com

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 39

Action builds

HOPE /

FOR A BETTER TOMORROW The need to integrate sustainability in our educational systems b y P E T E R M I L N E

40 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

“ YO U N G P EO P L E : T H E Y C A R E . T H E Y K N OW T H AT T H I S I S T H E WO R L D T H AT T H E Y ’ R E G O I N G TO G ROW U P I N , T H AT T H E Y ’ R E G O I N G T O S P E N D T H E R E S T O F T H E I R L I V E S I N . B U T, I T H I N K I T ’ S M O R E I D E A L I S T I C T H A N T H AT. T H E Y A C T U A L LY B E L I E V E T H AT H U M A N I T Y, T H E H U M A N S P E C I E S , H A S N O R I G H T T O D E S T R O Y A N D D E S P O I L R E G A R D L E S S .”

SIR DAVID ATTENBOROUGH

W

ith the 28th edition of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) around the corner, here’s a question that’s worth pondering over: how do we purposefully and meaningfully integrate sustainability in our educational systems?

WHY? The effects of human-caused global warming are happening now, they are irreversible for people alive today, and they will worsen as long as humans add greenhouse gases to the atmosphere.

We see the consequences of a warming planet through the rise of sea levels, more severe and frequent flooding, extreme storms and droughts, and more intense heat waves, all of which lead to such outcomes as food and water insecurity, biodiversity loss, poorer air quality, human displacement, etc.Our children are the first generation that have a greater awareness of climate change, and, at the same time, they see the devastating impacts on our planet. They are threatened and vulnerable; they need our help.

Sacha Wright and Emily Osterloff highlighted the feelings our children might be having in an article published on London’s Natural History Museum website: “Watching our natural world change, sometimes combined with feeling personal guilt, or witnessing climate indifference and elected powers failing to act with the pace required, can evoke a variety of emotions, from anger and frustration to dread, powerlessness, and hopelessness. It can be

So, the starting point to the answer to that question has to be why, and then how. After all, education is playing an increasingly critical role in raising that consciousness and creating sustainable solutions for the future of our planet.

Indeed, our children must have the opportunity to learn why there are so many challenges facing this planet, and what these issues are, so that they have the knowledge, skills, and motivation as to how they can do more about safeguarding the future.

uncomfortable, overwhelming and paralyzing. This phenomenon is known as climate anxiety or eco-anxiety, often defined as a chronic fear of environmental doom, a worry for what might happen if the world does not take action to avert disaster in time.” }}

Peter Milne is the founder and Director of Target4Green Educational Consultancy and Training.

Our children are the first generation that have a greater awareness of climate change, and, at the same time, they see the devastating impacts on our planet.

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 41

Action builds

HOPE / “ Sustainability must be a core purpose within the ethos of a school, and it must be backed up by a dedicated team that includes a sustainability coordinator working closely with the senior leadership team and the facilities team.”

senior leadership team and the facilities team.

}Be well-resourced and up to date on what is happening in the local region and globally. That should include a greater understanding of COP, particularly COP21, and how it relates to COP28 in the UAE.

}Environmental/sustainability concepts offer an exciting context

for the application of scientific principles, math, and language skills, as well as social studies concepts. It promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and action, all of which develop confidence in addressing the challenges to sustainable development. Above all, education for sustainable development is critical in understanding the consequences of what humans are doing to the planet, and the rights and responsibilities that we all share.

}Keeping the above point in mind,

there needs to be regular opportunities for staff training, as well as parent

As of January 2023, the region is home to 1.9 million students attending international schools, reflecting a 7.9 % increase over the past five years.

HOW? In my work with schools across the world, I have seen a really worrying rise in eco-anxiety, and so, my first and most important point as to how to purposefully and meaningfully integrate sustainability in our educational systems is simply this: give our children knowledge, understanding, a voice that will be heard and be acted on.

Our children need to be able to better understand the issues that affect our planet, and from that, be given the space to express their anger, grief, and fear, which will help to drive action.

These are not negative feelings, because when they feel they are being listened to, and when they realize that there are people who genuinely care about their future, and about how they feel, that is what drives action, and gives them hope.

But we don’t need to have hope to begin

42 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

to act. Instead, action engenders hope.

The UAE Minister of Education H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi has stated that COP28 is significant, because it provides a path forward for using education to achieve sustainable development objectives as well as to combat climate change. As Dr. Al Falasi put it: “The vital part of education in shifting brains, behaviors, and beliefs about environmental issues today, and in the years to come, comes with the recognition that people’s behaviors toward the environment are still the key to having a real impact.”

There are many ways in which schools can take a critical role in enhancing climate change and sustainability education, and I have witnessed a lot of schools already doing some great work in this area. Here’s what schools need to keep in mind when doing so:

}Sustainability must be a core purpose within the ethos of a school, and it must be backed up by a dedicated team that includes a sustainability coordinator working closely with the

and student workshops based around the UN Sustainable Development Goals and how to embed them into the curriculum.

(There are many excellent resources out there- for example, see: https://www.un. org/sustainabledevelopment/studentresources)

}Understand the urgency of the climate crisis, and make it personal. }Be a role model for schools, and have high ambitions. Go beyond recycling to become zero-waste, plastic-free, and sustainably sourced. Only by walking the talk can students and teachers be inspired. }Focus on, get involved with, and support local organizations and other local school communities. We are all in this together, so the greater collaboration and partnership opportunities, the better.

From my time in Dubai from 2005 to 2015 as a teacher, environmental education coordinator and consultant, and since then, based in the UK as the founder and Director of Target4Green, I have had the privilege of working with a myriad of amazing organizations and school communities. There is no greater satisfaction in this area of education than

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

to see local schools and sustainable companies/ organizations working together to integrate sustainability into the community in a practical, purposeful, and meaningful way.

This has been most evident for me through the Beyond COP21 Symposium series, which started in Dubai in 2016, and has since taken place 35 times in 18 different countries. I am so lucky to be working with school communities across the world to bring them together, to work together, and to find solutions together to the many challenges facing this planet. Many of them have been international schools that have hosted in the Beyond COP21 series, and they have directly worked with local government schools through the event platform as well.

And bringing people together, from all aspects of life, is so important, and that is why networking at events like GESS Dubai - the leading education conference and exhibition in the Middle East- is also so valuable. There is actually no similar event of the scale of GESS in the region, and this has been a definitive gathering to meet the top international suppliers and learn from worldclass industry trendsetters.

According to data compiled

by ISC Research exclusively for GESS Dubai, the last decade has witnessed a substantial 54.6% increase in the number of international schools worldwide. The UAE, at the forefront of this educational wave, boasts 769 international schools or a significant 37% of the total. As of January 2023, the region is home to 1.9 million students attending international schools, reflecting a 7.9% increase over the past five years. However, a lot of the schools in the region

struggle with resources, and there is an increasing demand from more international schools opening.

However, there are very clear local and global environmental, social, and economic advantages of implementing sustainability education into the classroom and the wider school community, as well as reaching out and learning from each other, and certainly,

international schools are leading the way on this. But, at the end of the day, we simply have to do more for the sake of our children. As educators, parents, custodians, businesses, we all own that burden of responsibility.

Peter Milne is the founder and Director of Target4Green

Educational Consultancy and Training, a specialized, hands-on, community centered company dedicated to supporting schools across the world in their education for sustainable development, as well as working with companies in the creation and initiation of effective educational and corporate social responsibility programs. target4green.com

“ THERE ARE VERY CLEAR LOCAL AND GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND ECONOMIC ADVANTAGES OF IMPLEMENTING SUSTAINABILITY EDUCATION INTO THE CLASSROOM AND THE WIDER SCHOOL COMMUNITY, AS WELL AS REACHING OUT AND LEARNING FROM EACH OTHER.”

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 43

Action builds

HOPE /

CHARTING THE FUTURE

A look at how the UAE has emerged as a significant player in sustainable infrastructure development b y LY N N E J A C K

W

ith building and construction activities responsible for 39% of global carbon emissions, there’s no question that the construction sector has to take a leading position in sustainability and climate change conversations. The sector’s environmental impact, as well as its overwhelming growth, highlight the necessity for it to be a primary focus in addressing global sustainability challenges.

44 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

Indeed, the building and construction industry’s impact on carbon emissions is extensive, stemming from energy consumption throughout construction, the operational lifecycle of structures, and even their eventual demolition. Acknowledging this, the sector needs to adopt environmentally responsible practices and embrace innovative, low-carbon construction techniques.

The 28th edition of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), which is taking place in the UAE this

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

year, marks a crucial moment in the global effort to combat climate change.

And as the international community gathers to address the urgent need for climate action, the UAE has emerged as a significant player in sustainable infrastructure development.

It’s not just the UAE though- the construction industry in the region is now embracing new strategies centered around sustainable design and environmentally friendly construction practices. In alignment with this paradigm shift, real estate developers have adopted practices that are helping them move towards achieving net-zero buildings, expediting a move towards environmentally conscious construction practices.

The prioritization of sustainable operations has impacted nearly all sectors within the UAE. The UAE’s Net Zero 2050 initiative

“ THE UAE’S NET ZERO 2050 INITIATIVE SETS AN AMBITIOUS GOAL FOR THE NATION TO BE THE FIRST IN THE MENA REGION TO ATTAIN NET-ZERO EMISSIONS BY 2050.” sets an ambitious goal for the nation to be the first in the MENA region to attain net-zero emissions by 2050.

The UAE has also consistently implemented a solid strategy in its approach to construction projects, demonstrating a strong dedication to cost efficiency, while simultaneously aligning with the UN Sustainable Development

Goals (SDGs). Such a strategic approach entails careful planning and decision-making at various stages of construction, from design to execution.

This strategy thus illustrates the UAE’s all-encompassing and forward-looking perspective on construction and sustainable development, aligning its advancement

Besides serving as a cultural and technological hub, Dubai’s Museum of the Future also embodies sustainable design principles.

with global sustainability objectives. A fundamental aspect of the UAE’s sustainable infrastructure advancement lies in its focus on renewable energy sources. The nation has positioned itself as a trailblazer in the utilization of solar power, exemplified by initiatives such as the Noor Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest single-site solar power project, and Masdar City, a vibrant center for research in clean technology and renewable energy. These initiatives stand as testament to the UAE’s commitment to clean and sustainable energy solutions, reinforcing its position as a prominent global leader in the ongoing transition toward renewable resources.

Within the domains of architecture and urban planning, the country is proactively integrating sustainable design principles into its infrastructure initiatives. One striking example is Dubai’s Museum of the Future, an iconic structure that not only serves as a cultural and technological hub, but also embodies sustainable design principles. Consider, for instance, the façade of the museum, which is adorned with a beautiful geometric pattern that uses Arabic calligraphy to spell out its name. But this pattern serves a dual purpose- it acts as a shading system, reducing the amount of solar heat gain and glare, while also allowing natural light to filter into the building.

Additionally, it utilizes solar power, while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the building. }}

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 45

Action builds

HOPE /

“ As COP28 unfolds, the UAE’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and investing in environmentally responsible infrastructure projects will be on display for the world to see.”

The Museum of the Future and similar iconic structures not only symbolize the UAE’s pursuit of architectural excellence, but they also establish a formidable precedent for environmentally responsible construction and design practices on a global scale. By incorporating such sustainable elements into its landmark projects, the UAE demonstrates a multifaceted dedication to promoting eco-friendly urban development and innovation, positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable architectural advancements and inspiring similar endeavors worldwide. This holistic approach aligns with broader goals of reducing environmental impact, as well as fostering sustainable living environments for future generations.

The UAE has also established specialized research centers and innovation hubs, such as the Masdar Institute and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park Research and Development Center, to lead advancements in sustainability within the area of infrastructure and energy. The Masdar Institute, situated

within the innovative ecosystem of Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, plays a pivotal role in nurturing research and development activities related to renewable energy, sustainable technologies, and sustainable urban planning. It serves as a hub for cutting-edge research and fosters collaboration with international institutions, bringing forth innovative solutions to address environmental challenges.

Furthermore, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park Research and Development Center in Dubai -which is the largest single-site solar park in the world- serves as a crucible for innovation in solar energy. Its focus on research is instrumental in improving solar technology, increasing energy efficiency, and driving down costs associated with solar power generation. This facility thus aids in consolidating the UAE’s position as a pioneer in the adoption and development of renewable energy resources.

In the run-up to COP28, the UAE has engaged in partnerships with various nations, sharing its experiences and knowledge in sustainable infrastruc-

46 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

ture development. It is estimated that 140,000 people will be arriving in the UAE for COP28 to discuss the Paris Agreement, and assess progress towards it. During this time, Heriot-Watt University Dubai will set aside two floors of its campus in Dubai Knowledge Park as a Climate Hub to host visitors from around the world, and engage in various insightful discussions to address topics of global concern.

Such collaborations therefore strengthen the collective efforts to combat climate change, and pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

As COP28 unfolds, the UAE’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and investing in environmentally responsible infrastructure projects will be on display for the world to see. The UAE’s

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is the largest single-site solar park in the world, with a planned total capacity of 5,000 megawatts by 2030.

efforts are testament to the importance of sustainable development, and the pivotal role it plays in addressing climate change.

The country’s innovation projects, commitment to renewable energy, and investment in research and innovation serve as a beacon of hope in the challenges presented by climate change, inspiring others to follow suit on the path to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.

Professor Lynne Jack is Associate Principal (International Research) and Director of the Centre of Excellence in Smart and Sustainable Construction at Heriot-Watt University Dubai. hw.ac.uk/dubai

Drive the new way.

New IVECO T-WAY: high productivity and safety on off-road terrains With a complete line-up of AWD and PWD versions and the the 16-speed HI-TRONIX automated gearbox, the IVECO T-WAY features a host of functionalities such as Rocking Mode, Off-road Mode, Creeping Mode and 4 reverse gears to tackle with ease the toughest off-road conditions. The new architecture of the EBS system, combined with disc brakes on all wheels, greatly improves the vehicle’s performance and the driver’s safety in the most demanding applications.

New IVECO S-WAY: high technology and efficiency for on-road missions The new IVECO S-WAY, with a completely redesigned and reinforced cab, offers a wide choice of Euro III/V diesel engines, a delivering class-leading power from 360 HP to 560 HP Euro III / 570 HP Euro V and superior fuel-saving devices, such as anti-idling feature, Ecoswitch, Ecoroll and Smart Alternator, 12-speed HI-TRONIX automated transmission with the most advanced technology in its category, electronic clutch and best-in-class torque-to-weight ratio.

Action builds

HOPE /

Conscious Dining

Navigating the intersection of sustainability within the F&B industry b y J O E S T E I N W O L D

A

s the UAE gears up to host the 28th edition of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai, the urgency to protect the environment has taken centerstage within the country’s agenda, especially given that 2023 has been designated as its “Year of Sustainability.”

IN DUBAI’S F&B LANDSCAPE, we see a move to a more comprehensive implementation of sustainability such as recycled materials across furniture, uniforms, and zero-waste menus.

Fostering a culture of reuse and recycling to significantly decrease their carbon footprint, outlets are reshaping F&B practices and operations that are not only appealing to conscientious consumers, but also allows them to advocate for sustainable living.

The F&B industry holds a staggering share of responsibility for environmental impact, contributing significantly to emissions and unsustainable practices. According to a report by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, approximately one-third of total greenhouse gas emissions are attributed to the F&B industry.

IMAGES COURTESY BOGA SUPERFOODS AND FEELS BY THE BEACH

At BOGA Superfoods, each dish is created from scratch, ensuring zero additives and a commitment to pure, clean food.

The restaurant’s in-house recipes create homemade freshly baked bread, sauces, jams, dressings, and cream cheese, while taking pride in growing its own greens.

48 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

This encompasses the energy-intensive processes of food production, sourcing, and transportation, coupled with the environmental ramifications of food and beverage packaging that accumulate in landfills. It is thus evident that a re-evaluation of operational practices must be implemented to reduce carbon footprint and integrate sustainability.

Such a transformation not only aligns with global environmental goals, but also promises tangible benefits for businesses, which will, in turn, reduce their operational costs.

The F&B industry has many unsustainable practices from packaging and food waste, to the carbon footprint associated with transportation from sourcing ingredients. In the relentless pursuit of long-term environmental responsibility, single-use plastics, non-recyclable packaging, and inefficient supply chain practices should be replaced by eco-friendly alternatives.

THE NEW GENERATION OF CONSUMERS, who have adopted an elevated thinking with evolved preferences, prioritize sustainability as a key criterion, and now play a pivotal role towards shaping the industry’s perspective. As the founder and CEO of BOGA Superfoods, I’ve personally been associated with one of the local UAE businesses that are already diligently implementing actions on reducing unsustainable practices. In fact, we at BOGA have been working towards aligning our daily

BOGA Superfoods aims to create an environment through the use of color and material that makes its guests feel welcomed and relaxed.

“The new BOGA Superfoods concept, which is set to open in November as a clean and nutritious experience, is committed to sustainability- from growing and cultivating its in-house herbs, to creating all sauces and dressings from scratch to avoid additives, and reducing total dissolved solids by bottling its own water.” company operations with the growing ethos of conscientious consumerism.

The new BOGA Superfoods concept, which is set to open in November as a clean and nutritious experience, is committed to sustainability- from growing and cultivating its in-house herbs, to creating all sauces and dressings from scratch to avoid additives, and reducing total dissolved solids by bottling its own water.

Embracing a hyper-local approach to sourcing, the concept also eradicates the need for long-distance produce transportation, consequently mitigating carbon dioxide, curbing the release of harmful emis-

sions. In addition to sourcing their produce and furniture locally, the clean concept also measures and reduces portion sizes to strategically minimize the food waste.

The concept also partners with companies such as Bustanica, the world’s largest vertical farm, located in Dubai. Centered around sustainability, it uses hydroponic }}

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 49

Action builds

HOPE / illuminate a viable path towards a greener, more responsible future for the UAE F&B sector.

Feels by the Beach is a UAE-based beachfront window-serve coffee shop doling out sandwiches, fruit bowls, and shakes in informal digs.

FEELS BY THE BEACH EMERGES AS ANOTHER TRANSFORMATIVE FORCE, CENTERED TOWARDS ECO-FRIENDLY OPERATIONS WITH BIODEGRADABLE ELEMENTS SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATED INTO THEIR DELIVERY PACKAGING AND CUTLERY. techniques for growing produce, creating a controlled and pesticidefree environment that reduces water consumption by a staggering 95%. F&B companies should take a more significant stride towards a sustainable and water-efficient method of food production, which also provides a commitment to energy efficiency, utilizing minimal electricity, and optimizing ventilation systems.

As for another example of a sustainability conscious business, Feels by the Beach emerges as another transformative force, centered

towards eco-friendly operations with biodegradable elements seamlessly integrated into their delivery packaging and cutlery. The dedication extends to the interiors and clothing of the brand, with recycled materials shaping its furniture as well as 100% recycled cotton used to manufacture employee uniforms. With the implementation of responsible waste management practices, its innovative segregation system ensures daily waste is tracked and recycled, effectively reducing food wastage to as low as 2%.

50 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

UNDERSTANDING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CLEAN FOOD AND SUSTAINABILITY thus can allow F&B businesses to foster a symbiotic connection that aligns consumer demands with sustainable solutions. Propelling a shared commitment towards a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible future, together, we can navigate the nexus between global objectives and local industry practices.

These beacons of sustainability not only set a precedent for conscientious business, but they also

A seasoned restaurateur, Joe Steinwold is a visionary entrepreneur and seasoned business leader, who completed his early education in California. By 1984, he was equipped with a comprehensive MBA with a focus on Marketing and Finance from the prestigious Illinois Institute of Technology.

Joe’s trailblazing spirit became evident when he assumed the role of the First General Manager at Al Tazaj Fakieh Chicken (Taza). With his adept leadership, he transformed the company into a thriving business powerhouse, setting unprecedented benchmarks in the industry.

Joe turned a new page in his career, venturing into entrepreneurship with the establishment of BOGA Superfood. The venture showcases his keen business acumen and commitment to health and wellness. bogasuperfoods.ae

IMAGINE YOUR SPACE

Imagine a space where your inspiration can run free. A world that tells your own story, every single day.

At RAK Ceramics we help create the perfect living space, for you and your loved ones.

Imagine your space.

RAKCERAMICS.COM

Action builds

HOPE /

Shaping a Greener Future

COLLABORATIVE STRATEGIES FOR THE FINANCIAL SECTOR b y S A M E E R A F E R N A N D E S

F

or those of us watching the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the last couple of years, it’s no secret that the nation has been steadfastly redefining its economic narrative, transitioning from an oil-centric powerhouse, to a beacon of sustainable finance. This strategic shift aligns with a global imperative to address climate change and promote sustainable practices, a theme that resonates with the findings of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development’s World Investment Report as well as that of the Gulf Investment Report 2023 that was developed by the enterprise I work with, Century Financial. These reports underscore a critical investment deficit in developing countries, which has widened from US$2.5 trillion in 2015 to a staggering $4 trillion annually, underscoring the urgency to meet the 17 Sustainable Development Goals -as listed by the United Nations- by 2030.

52 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

For its part, one of the ways in which Century Financial underscored its commitment to this global challenge was by hosting a roundtable discussion on the theme, Shaping a Greener Future: Collaborative Strategies for the Financial Sector. Having convened CEOs, policymakers, sustainability experts, and thought leaders, this event fostered a dialogue pivotal for the advancement of a sustainable financial sector. Indeed, the diversity of participants as well as the depth of conversation at Century Financial’s headquarters in Dubai highlighted the ongoing collective drive to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into the financial industry.

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

At this event, sustainability leaders emphasized the necessity of cross-sector collaboration to expedite the transition to a greener economy. The roundtable also served as a crucible for innovation, identifying barriers and collaborative initiatives, and sharing best practices that could shape the financial sector’s future. Its participants further deliberated the importance of identifying material topics during the sustainability and ESG reporting process, advocating for a move beyond regulatory compliance towards sustainability integration in business operations.

Speaking at the roundtable, Bal Krishen, Chairman and CEO of Century Financial, stressed the importance of collaboration to enact meaningful change and tackle environmental challenges. The event also featured insights from esteemed panelists like Regina Von Flemming from the strategy and communications consultancy, Tymoria, Ibrahim Al Blooshi from the philanthropic foundation, Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, and Faisal Mohammed Al Shimmari from Mashreq Bank, one of the UAE’s leading financial institutions, among others. These leaders shared their organizations’ commitments to sustainability, focusing on renewable energy, clean technology research and development, sustainable water management, and education on resource management.

support sustainable finance. The commitment to implement the discussed ideas was palpable, with several organizations announcing new initiatives to bolster their environmental sustainability efforts.

THE ROUNDTABLE THUS CONCLUDED WITH A UNIFIED CALL TO ACTION, STRESSING THE NEED FOR ROBUST POLICIES AND FRAMEWORKS TO SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE FINANCE. The success of this roundtable can therefore be seen as a testament to the growing recognition within the

financial sector of the economic opportunities presented by sustainability. It marks a collective commitment to drive positive change, positioning financial institutions as pivotal architects of a greener future.

Indeed, in the UAE, the financial sector is navigating towards a future where economic growth and sustainability are not just aligned, but integrated. By embracing ESG principles and fostering collaboration, the sector is not simply responding to a global trend, but actively driving it.

}The UAE’s commitment to a sustainable future is therefore a beacon for the global finance industry, heralding the advent of a new epoch of conscious investment.

As the UAE continues to innovate and lead in ESG practices, it sends a compelling message: the finance industry has the capability and the responsibility to lead sustainable progress. The nation’s strategic adoption of ESG offers a blueprint for global finance sectors, promising a legacy of prosperity that is sustainable in every sense.

The UAE’s financial sector is also redefining the essence of wealth and prosperity. By giving precedence to sustainability, it is planting the seeds for a future where economic expansion and environmental stewardship are in harmony. This }}

A scene from the Century Financial roundtable discussion.

}Al Blooshi, for instance, highlighted the integration of ESG considerations into investment practice and the promotion of green financing mechanisms as pathways to a resilient financial landscape.

Meanwhile, Mashreq Bank’s Al Shimmari reaffirmed his enterprise’s dedication to embedding sustainability into their core business practices, thereby ensuring that investments forge a sustainable path for future generations. The roundtable thus concluded with a unified call to action, stressing the need for robust policies and frameworks to

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 53

Action builds

HOPE /

The UAE, with its bold initiatives and forward-thinking leadership, is well-positioned to lead this charge, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth, and setting a global example for sustainable development in the financial sector. is the new paradigm of wealth, deeply rooted in the tenets of ESG. The call to action is clear, and the finance industry must now embrace its pivotal role in the ESG journey. The UAE, with its bold initiatives and forward-thinking leadership, is well-positioned to lead this charge, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth, and setting a global example for sustainable development in the financial sector.

}The UAE’s financial sector is thus not only embracing ESG principles, but it’s also actively shaping the landscape of sustainable finance through concrete actions and collaborative strategies. With the issuance of the region’s first green bond by the National Bank of Abu Dhabi, as well as the integration of ESG criteria by the Dubai Islamic Bank, the UAE is setting a strong precedent. The nation’s Vision 2021, which emphasizes the development of a competitive knowledge economy with 54 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

sustainability at its core, further reinforces this commitment.

As the sustainable finance market grows (which reached $5.8 trillion in 2022), the UAE is poised to leverage its strategic position to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in clean energy. This could help bridge the investment gap in developing countries, which stands at a shortfall of $1.7 trillion in clean energy FDI against the need. The next steps therefore involve continuing to build on this momentum, with financial institutions implementing actionable strategies, and the nation’s policymakers enhancing frameworks to attract further investments. By doing so, the UAE not only contributes to the global ESG agenda, but also cements its role as a hub for sustainable finance, setting a benchmark for others to follow.

Sameera Fernandes is a certified environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and sustainability professional who has completed Oxford University’s Leading Sustainable Corporations program. As the Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Century Financial, she is responsible for driving the company’s sustainability agenda. A well-recognized sustainability leader, she specializes in green finance, sustainable investments, international partnerships, and change management. She is also certified by the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments. Sameera played an instrumental role in the recent release of Century Financial’s Gulf Investment Report 2023 at the World Investment Forum in Abu Dhabi, further substantiating her influence in shaping global investment discussions. century.ae

Action builds

HOPE /

KEEPING IT REAL T

Here’s why greenwashing isn’t a good way to go when it comes to PR around your ESG strategy b y N ATA S H A H AT H E R A L L- S H AW E

he spotlight on a company’s environment, social and governance (ESG) goals burns brighter than ever, and it is only increasing, with brands and businesses held to account by consumers, media, and regulators. Nongovernmental organization (NGO) activism is also taking a stance across the globe on a multinational scale.

56 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

Tricky conglomerate issues aside- what does this mean for your startup or SME as we move into 2024? Granted, a lack of clarity and fundamentals can feel confusing amongst a shortfall of reporting standards and a flurry of buzzwords and perplexing terminology. Is there a difference between “net zero” and “carbon neutral”? Is this even relevant to your activities, and do your potential clients and partners even care?

Yes, they do care, and it’s not something to be ignored, whatever the scope of your activities- environmental responsibility, transparency, and trust are vital parts of your internal and external communications strategies, irrespective of your turnover and reach.

The issue of company policies within ESG comes when we don’t own what we do, or don’t offer transparency, or worse, not practicing what we preach at all. Creating a facade of responsibility in the context of ESG is “greenwashing.” Disclosure of information, or selective choosing of what to reveal, tokenism, fluffing terminology to where it suits, exaggerating activities, and data manipulation are just a couple of ways companies are trying to falsify their commitments to the cause. We live in a world where comparisons are difficult to draw on this subject. Companies can achieve the status of being a B Corporation, whilst still maintaining problematic practices, such as issues with labor and more. Is it, therefore, any wonder that we see companies utilizing their self-proclaimed ESG credentials for all intents and purposes as a greenwashed status?

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

Today, it’s still down to the individual business to declare their own stance, with no official reporting standards required. We’ve evolved to the point where it makes commercial sense to declare a stance at least, with 60-80% of consumers claiming to prefer to buy from sustainable brands. Whilst the specific international survey results may vary here, the results are loud and clear. Investors are requesting clear and open planning from potential portfolio firms regarding their route to sustainability, and within clear timeframes. Governmental departments are leading the way, and regulatory solutions will soon become commonplace and mandatory.

So, how do you tell your brand’s ESG story when the goalposts are changing, and the trending news cycle makes it tempting to piggyback something different every month?

Engaging audiences in a noisy and saturated market is not easy. It’s tempting to become the boldest or the loudest at least, but it’s vital to match your storytelling with the truth. ESG narratives must match both ethical standards and the emotional pull.

Greenwashing your corporate mission, vision, and values will inadvertently harm reputation, as well as credibility with clients and consumers and stakeholder relationships.

The key for brand communications and public relations (PR) strategy in the ESG arena lies in clearly defining your motivators and abilities. This will look totally different for each business or brand, and it can range from diversity and inclusion to manufacturing capabilities and beyond.

The responsibility doesn’t only lie with the brands themselves thoughPR and marketing companies are also responsible for upholding standards here, and if they were engaged to work on an ESG narrative, they must also ensure the credibility of information shared, and shoulder the responsibility. Trust and transparency rule, and they make a huge difference to the bottom line, not just the awards mantelpiece.

So, what does an accountable and sustainable future for ESG comms look like?

Ethical guidelines, due diligence, and good faith are crucial in ESG comms at any level. Building authentic trust with your user base, employees, stakeholders, and the wider public will only enhance your reputation, while also showcasing a genuine commitment from you. There is absolutely zero benefits to be had from band wagoning, or from making bold claims that simply cannot be substantiated.

Recycling policies, the sustainable packaging supply chain, diversity and inclusion quotas or challenges, and the launch of an industry-first carbon monitoring software for the manufacturing industry - all of these are things that we at TishTash Communications have worked on for clients recently at our agency for the GCC market. The one thing they all have in common is truth and sincerity, with all actions backed by clear evidence.

Accuracy and reliability are the crux of all PR activities and stakeholder communications. Greenwashing may not be deliberate, and “accidents” do happen, but these serve to underscore the importance of transparency in your PR activities. Your communications can aid in a shift in consumer and employee behavior, even in its most basic form. Championing the recycling of your e-comm packaging materials can also sit alongside the challenges of low-emission deliveries.

We can’t ignore the latter, but we can talk about it honestly.

Promoting sustainability to drive positive change is the key driver in most of our current communications.

No bold claims or unachievable goals; instead, an honest conversation or showcase of what is being done, alongside a debate about what we can do more of, is a great start to your ESG comms strategy.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again- when it comes to ESG, the code of conduct for your business must be rooted in authenticity and transparency. Accountability must be always embraced, and it is no longer

BUILDING AUTHENTIC TRUST WITH YOUR USER BASE, EMPLOYEES, STAKEHOLDERS, AND THE WIDER PUBLIC WILL ONLY ENHANCE YOUR REPUTATION, WHILE ALSO SHOWCASING A GENUINE COMMITMENT FROM YOU. just a case of a “nice-to-do” or a media opportunity; it is key to the ethics of you and your business.

Greenwashing isn’t an option for 2024- don’t make that mistake before you’ve started, as there is nowhere to hide, and staying relevant today needs to be coupled with a clear view of the future, and respecting all that comes with that.

Natasha Hatherall Shawe is the founder and CEO of TishTash Communications. tishtash.com November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 57

Action builds

HOPE /

GREEN INNOVATIONS Meet the finalists in the water category of this year’s Zayed Sustainability Prize

E

stablished in 2008, the Zayed Sustainability Prize is the UAE’s pioneering global award for recognizing excellence in sustainability, which honors the the humanitarian and sustainability legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Since then, the Prize has awarded 106 winners who have positively impacted the lives of over 378 million people around the world by accelerating sustainable development through their impactful, innovative, and inspiring solutions.

A scene from an earlier edition of the Zayed Sustainability Prize.

58 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

As we near the conclusion of 2023, the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, while also anticipating the upcoming 28th edition of the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in the UAE, this year’s edition of the Zayed Sustainability Prize continues to champion pioneers in sustainable solutions, with the winners set to be announced on December 1, 2023.

Here, we take a look at the finalists in the water category of this year’s Zayed Sustainability Prize, all of whom are at the forefront of addressing critical

water security challenges with groundbreaking innovations that are redefining wastewater treatment, as well as providing essential access to safe water for vulnerable communities worldwide.

This year, the water category finalists are leading the way with their inventive approaches to water conservation and management.

These three finalists are proving that innovative solutions can be tailored to meet communities’ specific water needs, and to help vulnerable communities better manage, treat, and access precious water resources. zayedsustainabilityprize.com

| S P EC I A L E D I T I O N |

ADADK adadk.tech

F

ounded by Bayan Al-Abdullat and Najwan Mohammad, ADADK has developed a system equipped with wireless sensors to detect various leaks at an early stage.

At the heart of the Jordanbased SME’s success lies its AdadkSensor, a transformative device deployed in households and refugee camps across Jordan, Germany, Tunisia, and the US. This wireless smart sensor, coupled with a mobile app, employs machine learning and augmented reality with 95% accuracy.

“ADADK speaks the language of water- by developing a smart technology that allows us to listen to and understand our water, we provide people with easy and affordable tools to allow anyone to take real-time action,” says Al-Abdullat. “We aspire to save homes, communities, industries, and the planet.”

Operating across five countries, ADADK has, so far, positively impacted over 200,000 lives, prevented eight million gallons of water loss, and curbed 90,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. Its technology has also averted over US$13 million in structural damages, and it has also forged partnerships with over 20 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private firms, creating a powerful network for change.

Founded by Bayan Al-Abdullat and Najwan Mohammad, Jordan-based ADADK has developed a system equipped with wireless sensors to detect various leaks at an early stage

November 2023 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / 59

Action builds

HOPE /

EAU ET VIE eauetvie.fr

T

hrough a simple yet ingenious approach, Eau et Vie ensures sustainable access to clean water directly within the homes of urban residents through individual taps,” declares Philippe de Roux, co-founder and CEO, Eau et Vie. Along with his co-founder Valérie Dumans, de Roux drew inspiration for Eau et Vie from his experience working in a social micro-credit programme in The Philippines. His exposure to the challenges faced by Manila’s urban poor, including water scarcity and high costs, served as the driving force behind Eau et Vie’s solution, which centers on water access and community engagement.

The France-based company’s community-oriented approach, unique payment structure, and door-to-door service provision make vital services accessible to underserved communities.

To date, its efforts have provided clean drinking water and additional services to 52,000 residents in 28 communities across The Philippines and Bangladesh.

France’s Eau et Vie has provided clean drinking water and additional services to 52,000 residents in 28 communities across The Philippines and Bangladesh

Denmark-based TransForm is a pioneer in eco-friendly wastewater treatment.

TRANSFORM rootzone.dk

D

enmark’s TransForm leads in wastewater, sewage, and sludge treatment with its innovative Rootzone soil filtration. This eco-friendly innovation stands out for treating waste streams without energy or chemicals.

The 30-year-old company removes contaminants from oil-contaminated water and sludge, cuts natural groundwater use by 50-70%, captures carbon emissions, and generates clean oxygen using constructed wetland systems.

“Traditional methods of wastewater treatment involve complex and energy-intensive processes, leading to high costs,” explains TransForm CEO Mikkel Dalsgaard. “We have successfully implemented Rootzone technology in several areas, while reducing environmental impact and demonstrating substantial cost savings.”

“TransForm aims to establish a franchising model that brings our technology to more communities in need,” Dalsgaard continues. “This approach will not only increase market impact, but also create greater awareness and adoption of sustainable solutions, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy.”

60 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

Invests In Entrepreneurs What Are You Building?

Learn more at entrepreneur.vc

Action builds

HOPE /

Invent for Impact

Meet the winners of a sustainability-themed competition staged for university students by BEEAH Education and Ajman University

T

he winners of a sustainabilityfocused competition jointly hosted by BEEAH Education, the environmental education arm of UAE-based public private organization BEEAH Group, and Ajman University, a UAE-based higher education private institution, have been announced.

Titled “Sustainability for Entrepreneurship and Innovation,” the contest was curated with an aim to showcase sustainable innovations created by students and graduates of Ajman University’s College of Business Administration.

In first place was Greensip, a beverage bottle made from Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), a plastic with biodegradable properties, by using a plantable seed. The prototype -created by students Maryam Yaser, Shahd Albuali, and Shirin Ibrahim- was found to have the potential to introduce an environmentally friendly packaging design, while also contributing to the planting of seeds with proper disposal.

In second place was Airquatic, a system with sensors that enable sustainable filtration while tackling pollutants and creating cleaner air and water. This prototype was built by university student Aya Babbili and her

62 / E N T R E P R E N E U R . C O M / November 2023

team. And finally, in third place, was Biofab, created by Rouneida Yasmine and her team, a bio machine that uses cooking oil for biodiesel to create a plantable bio-fabric, thereby supporting sustainable fashion and circular product design.

The competition was the final element of a four-day-long event that saw freshmen and senior year students partake in a series of workshops centered around sustainability-driven innovations. The workshops were delivered by the Institute of Environmental Management and Sustainability Middle East (IEMS Academy), which is the professional certifications and conformity assessments arm of BEEAH Education.

Among the key takeaways of these classes included lessons on how to create sustainable niche sub-sectors within industries, the elements of a circular economy, as well as how to shape future-ready businesses and societies. During the sessions, the participating students were encouraged to brainstorm innovative ideas across a realm of sustainability-focused areas such as air quality, food security and agriculture, marine and aquatic life, tech products for businesses, and eco-friendly materials for plastic waste

management and recycling. This was followed up with lessons on how to create business models out of these ideas.

“Through this competition held with IEMS and BEEAH Education, we hope to inspire our students in harnessing their intellectual and entrepreneurial potential in supporting the UAE’s ambitions for sustainable development and setting an example for the student community in the region and across the world,” Dr. Akinola Fadahunsi, Dean of the College of Business Administration at Ajman University, said. “Congratulations to the winners and all participants in the competition.

We look forward to seeing them further develop their ideas, and turn them into reality.”

“Our youth play an important role in translating the actions being made today into lasting positive change for the coming generations,” said Hind Al Huwaidi, Chief Education Officer at BEEAH Group. “Through this competition in collaboration with Ajman University, we are spotlighting innovative ideas from these students, and encouraging them to further develop their concepts for implementation in the UAE and beyond.” beeaheducation.com