Sustainable development and protection of environment are among the key priorities of Qatar. A robust policy framework has been provided by Qatar’s National Environment and Climate Change Strategy to safeguard the country’s environment for future generations.
In September 2021, the cabinet approved the National Climate Change Plan, which is a strategic framework that reflects Qatar’s long-term sustainability goals and the urgent need to respond effectively to issues related to climate change. The plan sets out Qatar’s commitment to tackle climate change by diversifying the economy, building capabilities and optimising the use of natural resources. It establishes national climate targets to enhance climate resilience through more than 35 measures and over 300 adaptation initiatives focused on mitigation.
Qatar’s strategy to protect the environment includes initiatives such as environmental research, sustainable cities, green transport, clean energy, digital transformation, delivery of a sustainable FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, among others. Lusail City and Msheireb Downtown are both smart and sustainable cities. These cities meet the highest environmental standards. Qatar has made significant investments in green public transportation and infrastructure projects to provide an integrated, world-class transportation system.
Strategic partnerships between the government of Qatar and industries are of crucial importance to the environmental sustainability plans. Corporate supervisory bodies are required to submit regular reports detailing the environmental impact of their operations, while there are strict penalties imposed on companies that break the regulations established by the Ministry of Environment and climate Change.
Qatar has established facilities with the aim of reducing waste and protecting the environment. At the Halul Island a new incinerator to destroy waste has been installed and includes sophisticated air pollution monitors. Moreover, a wastewater treatment plant has been built there. Mesaieed City is home to the integrated domestic solid waste management centre. Many initiatives are being implemented in Doha City, such as plans to address urban water tables, creating a biodiversity database, and the air quality-monitoring programme. The environmental challenges facing the nation are the common denominator between Qatar and many of its neighbours. The country is working with its neighbours via platforms such as the Gulf Green Initiative.
Qatar has launched a new initiative called “Environmental Pioneers”, which aims at involving individuals and institutions to deal with the challenges of climate change, preserve natural environment and biodiversity. The initiative seeks to support those concerned with environmental affairs and encourages them to continue their efforts to preserve the environment.
