Dubai, UAE — The UAE has revealed the details of the National Policy on Biofuels, which is aimed at reducing carbon emissions through increased consumption of biodiesel by 20 percent by 2050.
“The policy will play an important role in our decarbonization drive. It will lower the carbon footprint of diesel cars by 75 percent in case of consuming biodiesel by 100 percent,” said Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure.
The policy has been developed by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) in coordination with its strategic partners from the public and private sectors, aiming to provide sustainable fuel alternatives and further diversify the energy mix.
Al Mazrouei said, “The National Policy on Biofuels will help achieve the objectives of the UAE Energy Strategy 2050. It will enhance the implementation of circular economy principles in various sectors, such as infrastructure, mobility, and manufacturing, and will drive economic growth through using waste as input for production.”
The Minister noted that MoEI works collaboratively with its partners to develop regulations and controls to oversee the distribution of biofuels, establish standards governing the production and utilization of biofuels, and implement criteria and mandates for biofuel production within the country.
He highlighted that the policy supports the objectives of the National Energy and Water Demand-side Management Programme and the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.
Ali Khalifa Alshamsi, Director General of the Emirates General Petroleum Corporation – Emarat – said the policy also aims to support the UAE’s efforts in exploring alternatives to fossil fuels, thereby enhancing energy supply and contributing to the nation’s sustainability and climate action objectives.
Al Shamsi added, “We recognize the significant efforts of various national entities within the energy sector, including Emarat, in developing the comprehensive policy document. This comes in line with Emarat’s commitment to supporting the successful implementation of the terms and guidelines of this policy by adhering to it across all our operations and processes. In doing so, we will continue to drive sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions to achieve sustainable development.”
Yousif bin Saeed Lootah, Founder and CEO of Lootah Biofuels, said, “The UAE Cabinet’s approval of the National Policy on Biofuels is a game-changer for the energy sector. Establishing a robust local biofuel market not only addresses the need to reduce emissions but also promotes sustainability in other sectors, such as transportation, agriculture, and hospitality, fostering a greener economy.
“We at Lootah Biofuels take pride in our role in developing this forward-thinking policy that recognizes the multifaceted potential of biofuels. The policy reaffirms the UAE’s environmental stewardship and supports the country’s goal of producing 700 million liters of sustainable aviation fuel annually and reaching net zero by 2050.”
Salem Bin decarbonization, Director and Head of Country, bp UAE, said, “Biofuels play a critical role in the global journey towards net zero emissions. It is an important component that offers decarbonization solutions for sectors where electrification remains a challenge.