UAE mandates emissions reporting for large polluters

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will require companies emitting 500,000 tons or more of carbon dioxide annually to monitor and report their emissions under new legislation effective December 28.

As the first Middle Eastern country to introduce mandatory emissions tracking, the UAE aims to lead regional climate action, supporting its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The legislation applies to direct emissions (scope 1) and emissions from purchased energy (scope 2).

Abu Dhabi has already launched a system for companies to measure, report, and verify their emissions, with other emirates expected to follow. While the UAE considers further measures, concerns about competitiveness may limit the adoption of stringent policies like cap-and-trade systems.

The initiative follows the UAE’s hosting of COP28 and underscores its commitment to addressing climate change on a global scale.

Attribution: Bloomberg

Subediting: M. S. Salama