The UAE Circular Economy Council held its second meeting of 2025 at the Blue Biofuels factory in Abu Dhabi, chaired by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Council. The meeting was attended by Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), alongside other public and private sector members. The Council reviewed policy proposals for the second batch of circular economy initiatives under the UAE Circular Economy Agenda 2031, with a focus on sustainable transport, infrastructure, and clean industries. Circular economy a key pillar of future economic growth H.E. Bin Touq reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to advancing circular economy policies in line with national development goals. “The circular economy is a key pillar of the UAE’s new economic model for the next 50 years, which is built on more diversified and resilient economic components. In this context, we will continue, through the Council, to strengthen cooperation with relevant federal and local government entities as well as the private sector, to accelerate the development of UAE circular economy policies across four main sectors—manufacturing, food, infrastructure, and transportation—ensuring the optimal utilization of natural and financial resources,” he said. Role of private sector and local innovation His Excellency emphasised the importance of private sector involvement, urging businesses to adopt cleaner production methods and circular technologies to reduce environmental pressures and support national sustainability goals. Sheikha Shamma added, “The circular economy is not just an environmental commitment; it represents a strategic opportunity to achieve long-term, sustainable economic growth. In the UAE, we believe in our ability to transform challenges into achievements, and we continuously strive to empower entrepreneurs and develop innovative solutions that turn waste into valuable resources. We will continue to strengthen collaboration with partners in both the government and private sectors to support policies that advance the circular economy, ensuring sustainable prosperity and environmental responsibility for future generations.” Key initiatives and proposals discussed The Council explored several new initiatives to drive innovation and adoption of circular practices across the economy, including: Incentives for circular economy projects across infrastructure, transport, and clean manufacturing Localisation of innovation and technology to boost circular manufacturing Integrated digital platforms to support circular economy startups and SMEs A specialised online platform for plastic materials trading, aimed at improving safe recycling and waste management Strengthening partnerships and international cooperation The Council reviewed PepsiCo MENA & Pakistan’s presentation on recycled plastics and future opportunities in sustainable materials. The meeting concluded with a call to expand regional and global partnerships, particularly in circular economy and climate technology. Participants stressed the importance of exchanging best practices and leveraging international collaboration to inform national strategies and accelerate the UAE’s transition to a resilient, low-waste economy.