Interview: Abdulrahman Al Nuaimi
Where can public-private partnerships (PPPs) accelerate sustainable development in Ajman?
ABDULRAHMAN AL NUAIMI: Collaboration between public entities and private enterprises is fundamental to advancing sustainable development and fostering economic growth. By aligning efforts, both sectors drive efficiency, innovation and investment in sustainability-focused initiatives. PPPs are a catalyst for achieving high-impact results across infrastructure, resource management and environmental conservation. Privatisation plays a crucial role in optimising waste management, with outsourced collection and treatment services enhancing cost efficiency and reducing environmental strain. The transition towards sustainable agricultural practices is another priority, with the private sector spearheading irrigation solutions that utilise treated wastewater to maintain green spaces. Investment in environmental technology is also gaining traction, as companies integrate advanced solutions to curtail emissions and promote cleaner production methods. Moreover, Ajman has taken significant strides in fostering knowledge exchange through platforms such as the Ajman International Environment Conference, which convenes global experts to discuss sustainable development strategies and carbon neutrality pathways. These efforts reinforce a long-term commitment to embedding sustainability into economic growth plans.
What are the key sectors within the green economy that offer the most potential for investment?
AL NUAIMI: Ajman has positioned itself at the forefront of sustainability, presenting a dynamic landscape for investment in renewable energy, waste management, sustainable agriculture, ecotourism and green technology. Efforts to foster a thriving green economy align with Ajman Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring an attractive environment for local and foreign investors. The renewable energy sector is a major driver of sustainable development, with initiatives promoting solar panel installation across industrial facilities and the conversion of sludge waste into electricity. Such projects significantly contribute to reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Sustainability standards for new developments, including green building specifications, further reinforce environmentally conscious construction practices. Advancing the broader sustainability agenda are procurement policies, which prioritise eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies.
The push for a circular economy is evident in Ajman’s waste management strategy, which has achieved a 40% treatment rate for municipal solid waste as well as a 100% recycling rate for demolition and construction materials. Businesses are encouraged to integrate recycling into production processes, minimising waste generation and maximising resource efficiency. Policy measures, including prohibiting single-use plastic bags, have been implemented to curb environmental impact. Additionally, the expansion of treated wastewater usage supports groundwater conservation efforts. Nature reserves and ecotourism are equally emerging as strategic pillars of the green economy, enhancing environmental awareness while expanding green spaces to mitigate emissions.
How can Ajman enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in the industrial sector?
AL NUAIMI: Ajman’s infrastructure is evolving to align with sustainability goals, integrating solutions that enhance energy efficiency. The Ajman Carbon Neutral Path initiative launched in 2024 supports businesses in achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, aligning with the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy. By adopting international standards and assisting enterprises in meeting commitments, the initiative expedites the transition towards a greener economy. The Net Zero School initiative and industrial facilities are at the heart of these efforts, with 1670 of the latter earmarked for green transformation.
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