Bahrain's Minister of Oil and Environment and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, Dr Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Daina, has called for greater collaboration and more decisive action on the energy and economic transition areas.
In his opening remarks at the second edition of Sustainability Forum Middle East (SFME), Dr Bin Daina reaffirmed Bahrain's continued implementation of national projects, environmental programmes, and initiatives developed to achieve sustainable development goals.
He also highlighted Bahrain's climate commitments, as well as national strategic plans based on international best practices and standards.
The two-day forum gathered more than 350 business and sustainability leaders focusing on "Achieving Net Zero – Pathways to Accelerating Implementation".
Following a day of expert-led workshops on January 8 delivered by some of the world’s leading global ESG and climate advisories, the main forum on Tuesday (January 9) was launched with opening remarks from the minister.
Mark Thomas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Bapco Energies, a Strategic Partner of the Forum, and the integrated energy company leading the energy transition in the Kingdom of Bahrain, delivered the forum’s keynote.
Thomas said: "We are beginning a transformative era driven by green technology and innovation, prompting systemic change that will span decades. Our region's commitment to achieving net-zero targets is showcased through sovereign ambition, robust private and public sector engagement, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and mobilising substantial human and financial capital, shaping a legacy that aligns with global climate goals."
The forum featured a day of engaging panel discussions with more than 40 expert speakers from around the world taking part including those from MENA, Europe, UK, US, Australia, Brazil and India.
They covered a range of topics critical to MENA’s net-zero journey including essential collaborations between government and the private sector, outcomes of COP 28 and the implications for MENA climate action, funding and capital requirements, energy transition and the growth of renewables, future cities, resilient and sustainable supply chains, and the regulations required to accelerate the journey for businesses across sectors.
Speakers represented a diverse group of private and public sector organisations and regional and international companies including: Acwa Power, Alba, APM Terminals Bahrain, ASRY, Bank ABC, Bapco Energies, BASREC, Boston Consulting Group, Central Bank of Bahrain, Saudi Exchange, Supreme Council for Environment, Bahrain, Electricity & Water Authority, Bahrain, Expo City Dubai, Infracorp, KPMG, among others.
