Mayssam Tamim

Deputy Resident Representative a.i./Assistant Resident Representative United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

HOW DO YOU SEE SUSTAINABILITY DEVELOPING IN THE MIDDLE EAST?

I think that it’s pretty evident that sustainable practices in the Middle East are very much on the increase, which is a positive step forward, however, most of these advances are government led. It would be great to see private sector entities in the region making more strides in the right direction also as we still need to see more mass adoption of sustainable practices.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES THE REGION IS FACING WITH REGARD TO SUSTAINABILITY?

There are myriad challenges at present in several key areas which I will break down one-by-one. Firstly, the long-applied measures of subsidies, while understandably crucial for the poor, are also hindering a much-needed implementation of consumption habits. Henceforth, striking a balance is a massive challenge and not one that is easy to get right.

The next key challenge is that business leaders have to be given a clear understanding and present awareness that sustainable practices do not affect economic development. This has been a fear all around the world and held us back from making meaningful change, so now is the time to show you can be sustainable and successful.

On this note, we also need several national awareness campaigns to highlight key issues and to ensure everyone plays their role. We also need education reform to ensure young minds are formed with sustainability as the new “normal” way of life. If we build sustainability into our way of life, it saves a great deal of danger down the road.

Other key areas include implementing clear regulations that promote sustainable practices (and putting a stop to those that are not sustainable), the integration of policy and programs between different ministries/authorities, clear guidelines and incentives/penalties for the private sector, supporting the implementation of women as leaders in their communities who could play a crucial role on promotion of sustainable practices, and finally, integrating ESG into businesses. A greater adherence to ESG is imperative if the Middle east is to grow and thrive.

WHAT IS ONE THING THE SUSTAINABILITY SECTOR IS NOT TALKING ABOUT THAT IT REALLY SHOULD BE?

Well, I think there are two key things actually. The main one would be the importance of inclusion in modern business and work, especially with regard to vulnerable communities and migrants. The second area would be that Sustainable practices need to be measured; however, measurements are not at good enough standard yet to allow us to differentiate between green washing and actual impact. However, this is not just an issue in the Middle East, it is Global. Nonetheless, it is a vital dimension that needs to be put right if we’re to make meaningful changes.