UAE President announces 2023 as 'Year of Sustainability'

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has announced 2023 as the 'Year of Sustainability'.

Taking to his official Twitter handle, Sheikh Mohamed highlighted that "effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will".

"As the host of COP28, we are committed to fulfilling our role as a global convener," His Highness added.

The UAE leader said the country "will continue to support action and innovation in the field of sustainability".

2023 is the Year of Sustainability in the UAE. Effective climate action requires a shared vision and collective will. As host of COP28, we are committed to fulfilling our role as a global convener and will continue to support action and innovation in the field of sustainability.

— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) January 20, 2023

Sheikh Mohamed, "The nation continues to serve as an exceptional model for environmental conservation and resource management. The late Sheikh Zayed was a global leader in environmental and climate action, leaving behind a legacy that we continue to follow today.

"Today for Tomorrow embodies the UAE's approach and commitment to sustainability and its responsibility to protect the future. By working, making efforts and initiating actions today, we are ensuring that we leave behind a legacy of stewardship for future generations, just as our ancestors did for us."

Sheikh Mohamed also emphasised that the 'Year of Sustainability' has particular significance as the UAE prepares to host the 28th United Nations climate change summit, Conference of Parties (COP28). He stated that the UAE is determined for COP28 to set a precedent in the collective global efforts to address climate change.

The 'Year of Sustainability' will include several initiatives and activities that draw upon the UAE's deep-rooted values of sustainability and the legacy of its founder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

It will also focus on environmental sustainability by inspiring collective action through a nationwide commitment towards sustainable practices, in line with the UAE’s national strategy, bringing together everyone who calls the UAE home to work towards a prosperous future.

The year also aims to showcase the UAE’s commitment towards fostering a global collaboration in seeking innovative solutions to challenges, such as energy, climate change and other pressing issues related to sustainability.