The Sultanate of Oman, as a key player in global sustainability, is seeking to transform climate challenges into investment and development opportunities by adopting innovative strategies and initiatives in the energy sector. Engineer Khalid bin Mohammed Al-Balushi, Director General of Climate Change at the Oman Environment Authority, referred to the country's recent achievements in this regard.
Environmental Achievements and Investment in Clean Energy
The Sultanate of Oman has made significant progress in the global environmental performance index, achieving a rank of 49 out of 180 countries. This country ranks second and third among Arab and Gulf countries, respectively. Oman has also secured the top global rank in six sub-indicators, including sustainable waste management and reduction of fossil fuel consumption.
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Engineer Al-Balushi added that Oman has recently updated its carbon neutrality strategy for 2026. This strategy is designed to create a legal framework for carbon markets, aiming for a 33% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 and attracting international investments in seven key sectors.
Financial Ecosystem and International Cooperation
The Sultanate of Oman is also seeking to align national priorities with financing pathways and international cooperation by launching the "National Climate Platform" at the COP30 conference in November 2025. This initiative focuses on renewable energy, climate resilience, and a sustainable economy, accompanied by the establishment of the Muscat Stock Exchange and the "Sustainability" program for disclosing environmental and social information.
In 2026, the "Oman Climate Week" also established the "Environmental Innovation Center," aimed at gathering innovative ideas and connecting innovators with financial resources. This initiative, along with the granting of the "Green Branch Award" to encourage the private sector to adopt sustainable practices, pursues ambitious goals.
Engineer Khalid Al-Balushi emphasized that the Oman Environment Authority is planning to develop a "National Adaptation Program." This program, with broad participation from various institutions, aims to identify climate priorities and enhance resilience in various sectors such as water, agriculture, and health. Oman has also begun regional collaborations with Qatar in establishing its "climate diplomacy," which includes the protection of protected areas and the exchange of experiences in this field.
Thus, the Sultanate of Oman, by adopting innovative approaches and international collaborations, is on the path to transforming climate challenges into investment and sustainable development opportunities.
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