According to the Global Footprint Network, the UAE consumes 12.3 times its resources.

 

The UAE has one of the world’s highest per capita ecological footprints on the entire planet.

 

While the nation has a multitude of reasons to be proud of its achievements, this is certainly not one of them.

 

Residents and citizens of the country consume 12.3 times the nation’s energy capabilities, which is not only a great cost to the world’s resources, but also to the local economy.

 

However, the governing institutions in the country have realized that this is a problem that needs to be solved, and quickly.

 

On August 27, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, issued a new Cabinet decree, No. 26 for 2014, stating that all businesses importing, exporting or re-exporting substances that negatively affect the ozone layer must register with authorities for a permit.

 

In addition, the transport or ownership of devices, equipment and products containing harmful substances will also require a permit.

 

The Ministry of Environment and Water will also take new reductive and preventative measures against the harm of the ozone.

 

While it is a great step on the large scale, it is important that citizens and residents of the UAE do their part in reducing waste in order to decrease our carbon footprint.