A bid for net-zero SMEs: The COP28 Presidency has partnered with the SME Climate Hub and We Mean Business Coalition to help small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region put net-zero strategies into action, Wam reports. The collaboration is designed to allow startups with under 500 employees to make globally recognized climate pledges and join the UN-backed Race to Zero Campaign. It will also make tools and resources accessible at no charge for businesses implementing net zero strategies by 2050 or before. The dedicated program comes in partnership with UAE’s Masdar with backing from First Abu Dhabi Bank and the Abu Dhabi Chamber.

OTHER STORIES WORTH KNOWING ABOUT THIS MORNING-

• A bid for concrete waste recycling in the UAE: Cement maker Cemex UAE has signed a cooperation agreement with Indian UltraTech Cement’s wholly owned subsidiary Star Cement to recycle concrete waste in the construction industry and cut carbon emissions. (Gulf News)
• A step forward for solar in Iraq: Iraq will allocate IQD 90 bn (c. USD 68.3 mn) to install solar panel systems on 500 governmental buildings starting early 2024. (Al Sabah Newspaper, pdf)
• Qatar is getting smart water network infrastructure: The Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) has signed a partnership agreement with telecom firm Ooredoo to set up advanced water network infrastructure with investments totalling QR 75.5 mn (c. USD 20.7 mn) over a span of 10 years. (QNA)
• CBD eyes carbon neutrality by 2030: The Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) plans to achieve carbon-neutral operations and lower carbon emissions from its own operations by 50% by 2030. (Statement)
• Tunisia needs TND 550 mn to implement its 2018-2030 Disaster Risk Reduction to safeguard against disasters and put in place an early warning system (Tap).