The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi on Monday unveiled an international standard measurement, reporting, and verification program to tackle carbon emissions and bolster climate action.
According to a statement, the initiative is designed to lay the foundation for a carbon pricing mechanism to decarbonize high-emission industries.
The MRV program, a first for Abu Dhabi, mandates large carbon-emitting facilities to monitor and report their greenhouse gas emissions annually, with third-party verification. The initial reports are due in 2026.
The system promises to generate reliable data that complies with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Enhanced Transparency Framework of the Paris Agreement.
Strengthening Transparency and Accountability
“Transparent data is essential for assessing climate policies, such as carbon pricing mechanisms,” said Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri, secretary-general of EAD, in the statement.
“This program supports Abu Dhabi’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 22 percent by 2027 and advancing the UAE’s path to net zero by 2050.”
The statement said the MRV initiative aims to standardize emissions reporting across industrial and energy sectors, fostering international competitiveness and innovation.
It represents a pivotal step in decarbonizing emission-intensive industries, a critical challenge for Abu Dhabi as it transitions to a low-carbon economy.
Towards Carbon Pricing Mechanisms
EAD has been exploring the feasibility of carbon pricing schemes, which studies suggest could accelerate decarbonization in hard-to-abate sectors.
“MRV systems are crucial for accurate emissions data, transparency, and effective climate action,” said Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi, undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, highlighting the importance of collective efforts to achieve climate neutrality.
Industrial Leaders Back the Initiative
The initiative has also garnered support from leading industrial players like Emirates Global Aluminium.
EGA CEO Abdulnasser Bin Kalban emphasized the program’s role in helping EGA meet regulatory requirements and advance its sustainability goals. “This tool is a critical step toward achieving our aspiration of net-zero emissions by 2050,” he said.
The MRV program positions Abu Dhabi as a leader in regional climate action, particularly as the UAE hosts COP28, where the UAE Consensus on climate goals will be a focal point.
By integrating innovative carbon accounting measures, Abu Dhabi reinforces its role in shaping global climate policies while driving sustainable economic growth.
As the emirate gears up for this transformational journey, the MRV program underscores Abu Dhabi’s unwavering commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.
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