The Sustainable Bio International Forum, held in Dubai on Friday under the theme “From the UAE…to a Greener World,” focused its discussions on the future of sustainable bioenergy and its essential role in fostering a low-carbon circular economy, reports ARN News Centre.
The high-level event successfully gathered policymakers, experts, academics, and industry leaders from across the globe to explore creative bio-fuel solutions. Key topics included sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), marine fuel, and other renewable transport fuels, with a dedicated effort to encourage young scientists to push scientific research forward in this field.
The forum was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) and was jointly organized by the Association of Arab Universities and the Yousuf Award for Young Scientists.
Eng. Saif Ghubash, Assistant Undersecretary for the Petroleum, Gas, and Mineral Resources Sector at the MoEI, affirmed that the UAE has placed sustainability at the heart of its national goals, setting an ambitious target to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. He noted that this transition is being driven by advanced initiatives to cut emissions, expand clean energy projects, and reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels.
He explained that bioenergy represents a vital part of the future energy mix, especially sustainable aviation fuel and low-carbon fuels. Mr. Ghubash pointed out that the UAE was a pioneer in the region for testing flights powered by SAF through collaboration with national companies. He added that the country’s Energy Strategy 2050, circular economy programs, and decarbonization projects are accelerating this transition. He also stressed that strong partnerships between universities and the private sector are crucial for strengthening innovation in low-carbon economy technologies.
Prof. Dr. Amr Ezzat Salama, Secretary-General of the Association of Arab Universities, stated that the initiative serves to boost investment in Arab talent, encourage young scientists to innovate, and elevate the importance of scientific research in supporting sustainable development across the UAE and the Arab world.
Yousuf bin Saeed Lootah, Founder of the Yousuf Award for Young Scientists, commented:
“The Young Scientists Award aims to strengthen the integration between universities and businesses throughout the Arab world, and to support sustainable solutions in green chemistry, renewable energy, and the circular economy.”
The forum concluded with a ceremony to honor the winners of the Yousuf bin Saeed Lootah Award for Young Scientists across three categories: Green Chemistry, Renewable Energy, and Circular Economy.
The participants collectively reaffirmed their commitment to advancing scientific innovation and sustainable bioenergy, pledging to open new avenues toward a greener, more prosperous future.
