Abu Dhabi has launched an internationally recognized carbon Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) programme aimed at accelerating its transition to a low-carbon economy. This initiative supports the emirate’s broader decarbonization goals, targeting a 22% reduction in carbon emissions by 2027 and working toward a net-zero emissions target by 2050.
Strengthening Transparency and Global Competitiveness
The MRV programme is designed to enhance the accuracy of emissions tracking across Abu Dhabi’s industrial and energy sectors, ensuring alignment with global standards, such as those outlined by the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement. By introducing mandatory reporting and third-party verification, the programme fosters transparency, innovation, and international competitiveness for industries in the region.
Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), highlighted, “Transparent data is essential for assessing climate policies, such as carbon pricing mechanisms, and supports Abu Dhabi’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions.” The programme is a crucial step in integrating reliable data into the region’s carbon accounting framework, vital for meeting its ambitious climate targets.
Key Features and Goals of the MRV System
The MRV system will require large carbon-emitting facilities to monitor, report, and verify their emissions annually, with the first reports due in 2026. This initiative will help the government develop and implement carbon pricing mechanisms, which will incentivize emission-intensive industries to decarbonize effectively. In addition, the programme aims to provide data that is transparent, accurate, and consistent with global climate frameworks.
The MRV programme’s primary objectives include:
- Establishing a standardized emissions reporting system for the industrial and energy sectors.
- Aligning emissions reporting with international standards to ensure Abu Dhabi’s competitiveness in the global market.
- Supporting the implementation of carbon pricing mechanisms to facilitate decarbonization.
Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Under-Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, emphasized the importance of such systems: “MRV systems are crucial for providing accurate data to track carbon emissions, ensure transparency, build trust, and drive effective climate action.”
Industry Collaboration and Support
The programme is set to have a significant impact on key industrial players in the region, including Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), which is already focused on sustainability goals aligned with Abu Dhabi’s climate targets. Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, CEO of EGA, stated, “This tool is an important step in achieving our bold aspiration of embedding sustainability in everything we do and reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.”
The MRV system’s successful implementation will rely on close collaboration between the public and private sectors. EAD has worked with various stakeholders to ensure that the system is adaptable and effective in tracking emissions across different industries, ensuring that companies can meet regulatory requirements while contributing to the wider goal of decarbonization.
A Step Toward Global Leadership in Climate Action
Abu Dhabi’s commitment to transparent, data-driven decarbonization efforts places it at the forefront of global climate action. By integrating the MRV programme into its broader sustainability strategy, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a leader in climate governance, setting a model for other cities and countries aiming to transition to a low-carbon economy.
EAD will continue to spearhead the development of clean technologies and sustainable practices, aligning with the UAE’s climate targets for 2050 and the global goals set under COP28. Through transparent data, collaboration, and innovation, the MRV programme will be a key driver in supporting Abu Dhabi’s decarbonization ambitions while ensuring sustainable economic growth.
