Qatar has paid special attention to environmental sustainability and conserving nature even as it continues its remarkable growth journey. The state has worked to achieve a balance and harmony between development and protecting the environment.
Environmental sustainability also forms a pillar of the third National Development Strategy (NDS3), along with sustainable economic growth, further improving quality of life and other 2030 goals. The strategy aims to conserve natural resources, protect ecosystems, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and build resilience against future environmental threats. It also envisions to achieve enhanced air quality, protected biodiversity, well-managed water resources, a thriving circular economy, and a sustainable built environment.
Under NDS3, the country has set certain targets to meet by 2030. They include GHG emissions reduced by 25 percent relative to the business-as-usual; 30 percent of Qatar’s land area and 30 percent of its marine area protected; 30 percent of degraded natural habitats restored; and groundwater extraction reduced by 70 percent. The 2030 targets also include achieving 33 percent reduction in per-capita household water consumption; four gigawatt renewable energy capacity; and 50 percent reduction in food waste.
Environmental development also forms a pillar of Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030, which emphasises a holistic environmental vision that places environmental preservation for Qatar’s future generations at the forefront. It aims to direct Qatar towards a balance between developmental needs and the protection of its natural environment, whether land, sea or air.
Speaking at the Green Development Forum of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, held in China this week, Minister of Environment and Climate Change H E Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie emphasised the great importance that Qatar attaches to green development and harmonising economic and social growth with the preservation of the environment and natural resources. He said under QNV 2030, the country seeks to achieve synergy between economic expansion and environmental preservation. He pointed to Qatar’s recent launch of NDS3, which serves as the main catalyst in advancing the country’s economic diversification while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Al Subaie said Qatar has also launched the National Renewable Energy Strategy, which aligns with its commitment to a greener and more prosperous future. He said Qatar, as a leading global supplier of natural gas, enjoys a distinguished position that qualifies it to assume a major role in global green development and the transition towards a low-carbon future. The Minister met a number of officials attending the forum, to discuss joint efforts to address climate challenges, and enhancing cooperation between all parties to preserve the environment and biodiversity.
