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Political shifts will not slow green economy momentum

Political shifts will not slow green economy momentum

Political shifts will not slow green economy momentum
Significant investments in renewable energy are shaping the green economy worldwide. (Shutterstock)
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The relationship between climate policy and economic priorities continues to shape the future of sustainability in a world striving to address global warming.

Recent major global political shifts will alter climate policies and affect actions undertaken by governments, but they won’t stop the long-term momentum of the green economy juggernaut.

It is, however, essential to understand how these changes in policy will impact sustainable development and international climate initiatives.

In recent years, climate policy has taken various approaches to balance traditional energy sectors with renewable energy investments.

Policy shifts like those expected from the next Donald Trump administration could expand fossil fuel extraction and reduce support for renewables for short-term gains.

This could dampen investments in clean energy and complicate progress toward national and international climate goals. 

A sharp and most likely short term change in policy like this highlights the need for resilient strategies to maintain forward momentum in renewable energy adoption and sustainable practices.

In the US, changes to climate policies could initially cause delays or even the suspension of renewable energy projects, accompanied by a shift in focus toward fossil fuels.

Moreover, subsidies and incentives for the green sector might be redirected, delaying critical advancements in the green economy. Increased reliance on fossil fuels could hinder emissions reduction goals and the economic case for transitioning to renewables.

The hope for a thriving green economy may face challenges during periods of economic uncertainty, particularly for companies dependent on government funding for green projects.

Any reduction in government support could erode investor confidence, slowing the progress of renewable energy initiatives.

However, major liberal American states like California, along with the private sector, are likely to continue developing sustainable practices regardless of changes at federal level.

This distinction between federal challenges and state-led or market-driven green investments highlights the multifaceted nature of climate action in a large country like the US.

On the international stage, changes to key climate policies can create a ripple effect.

The future of the green economy hinges on managing energy transitions effectively, balancing short-term economic considerations with long-term environmental imperatives.

Majed Al-Qatari

For instance, the EU, with its ambitious Green Deal initiative and emissions trading schemes, remains committed to producing net-zero greenhouse gases by 2050. It has invested heavily in renewable energy sources and sustainable development frameworks, underscoring the importance of long-term climate goals. 

Any shifts away from clean energy by Europe’s global partners could create new dynamics in trade and climate cooperation. However, Europe’s resolve to lead in sustainability initiatives ensures that progress will continue — with or without alignment with the US.

In the Middle East, nations like ֱ have shown leadership in green initiatives through frameworks such as Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.

These programs leverage the region’s high solar energy potential to achieve broader green economy objectives. And while international collaboration amplifies these efforts, regional leaders remain determined to advance sustainable development as part of economic diversification away from fossil fuels and to ensure climate resilience.

Although climate change policy is shaped within national contexts, it requires a global perspective and collaborative effort to bring about the changes required to slow global warming. Technological innovation and international partnerships remain essential in driving sustainability.

Participation in frameworks like the Paris Agreement highlights the need for unified action to address a challenge that transcends borders and political cycles.

Globally, significant investments in renewable energy are shaping the green economy.

Emerging markets in Europe, Asia and the Middle East are establishing themselves as leaders in clean-energy technologies, creating competition as well as collaboration opportunities.

These developments emphasize the resilience of the green economy, which continues to evolve despite external challenges. And as environmental and economic interests become more interconnected, aligning policies with sustainability goals becomes increasingly crucial.

The future of the green economy hinges on managing energy transitions effectively, balancing short-term economic considerations with long-term environmental imperatives.

Despite potential challenges, the drive for innovation and international cooperation ensures that the green economy remains a central force for global progress. 

As nations and industries align their interests with sustainability, the world moves closer to addressing one of humanity’s most urgent challenges.

Majed Al-Qatari is a sustainability leader, ecological engineer and UN Youth Ambassador with experience in ESG and sustainability goals in business, nonprofits and financial institutions.

 

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not necessarily reflect Arab News' point of view

Arab world, Middle East condemn Israel’s attacks against Israel

Arab world, Middle East condemn Israel’s attacks against Israel
Updated 27 sec ago

Arab world, Middle East condemn Israel’s attacks against Israel

Arab world, Middle East condemn Israel’s attacks against Israel

DUBAI: The Arab world has responded to Israel’s strikes against Iran, each country offering its condemnation of the attacks that killed at least two top military officers, raising the potential for an all-out war between the two bitter Middle East adversaries.

The UAE, through its foreign affairs ministry, stressed the importance of “exercising the utmost self-restraint and judgment to mitigate risks and prevent the expansion of the conflict.”

 

 

“Enhancing dialogue, adhering to international law, and respecting the sovereignty of states constitute essential principles for resolving the current crises,” the foreign affairs ministry added.

The UAE emphasized the need to resolve disputes through diplomatic means rather than confrontation and escalation, and called on the United Nations Security Council to take urgent and necessary measures to achieve a ceasefire, and to reinforce international peace and security.

Oman offered its “strong condemnation of the brutal military aggression launched by Israel on the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which targeted sovereign facilities and caused casualties.”

 

 

“Oman considers this action a dangerous and reckless escalation that constitutes a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter and the principles of international law. It also represents unacceptable and ongoing aggressive behavior that undermines the foundations of stability in the region,” the country’s foreign affairs ministry said.

And Jordan’s foreign ministry spokesperson Sufian Qudah warned of the “consequences of such escalatory actions, saying they threatened regional security and stability and risk exacerbating tensions”, state news agency Petra reported.

 

 

Elsewhere Qatar said it “considers the assault a blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and security, as well as a clear breach of international law and its established principles,” state news agency QNA meanwhile reported.

“The State of Qatar voices its grave concern over this dangerous escalation, which forms part of a recurring pattern of aggressive policies that threaten regional peace and stability and hinder efforts aimed at de-escalation and diplomatic resolution.”

Qatar emphasized “the urgent need for the international community to assume its legal and moral responsibilities and to act swiftly to halt these Israeli violations.”

 

 

“The State of Qatar reaffirms its firm position in rejecting all forms of violence, and reiterates its call for restraint and the avoidance of escalation that could widen the scope of conflict and undermine regional security and stability,” QNA reported.

Turkiye also condemned “in the strongest terms” Israel’s air strike on Iran, calling it a provocation that violates international law and risks further escalation in the region.

The Turkish foreign ministry in a statement said the attack showed Israel “does not want issues to be resolved through diplomatic means” and urged it to halt “aggressive actions that could lead to greater conflicts.”

 

 

Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), also described the Israeli attacks as a ‘clear violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.’

Al-Budaiwi, in a statement, called on the ‘international community and the Security Council to assume their responsibilities towards immediately halting this aggression and avoiding escalation that could ignite a wider conflict, which would have dire consequences for regional and international peace.’


Design, sustainability, innovation: Hallmarks of German appliance manufacturer Miele

Design, sustainability, innovation: Hallmarks of German appliance manufacturer Miele
Updated 14 min 52 sec ago

Design, sustainability, innovation: Hallmarks of German appliance manufacturer Miele

Design, sustainability, innovation: Hallmarks of German appliance manufacturer Miele

Miele, the 125-year-old German manufacturer of premium appliances, continues to set global benchmarks in design, sustainability, and technological innovation.

At the heart of this evolution is Dr. Reinhard Zinkann, co-proprietor and managing director of Miele, who embodies the brand’s founding ethos: Immer Besser—Forever Better.

For Dr. Zinkann, leading a fourth-generation family business is not about simply maintaining tradition—it’s about enhancing it.

“Being a family business allows us to make decisions with a long-term perspective,” he said. “It frees us from the pressures of short-term gains and allows us to focus on quality, innovation, and environmental responsibility.”

Miele’s dedication to excellence is best illustrated in the life expectancy of its products. 

Designed and tested to last up to 20 years, their durability speaks not only to performance but also to a larger environmental ethic: fewer replacements and less waste.

In markets like the Middle East, where refinement and experiential luxury go hand in hand, Miele’s design philosophy plays a pivotal role. 

The brand seamlessly integrates form and function to craft appliances that are both elegant and efficient.

“We collaborate with top architects and designers globally to ensure our appliances are not just built to perform, but also to complement evolving interior trends,” said Dr. Zinkann.

This approach is showcased in the new Miele Experience Center in Riyadh, where fully integrated kitchens and living spaces allow visitors to interact with the brand’s offerings in lifelike settings.

“We’ve significantly reduced our operational CO₂ emissions, and many of our appliances now use recycled materials,” Dr. Zinkann added. “Our products are also designed for disassembly, making them easier to repair and recycle.”

Such initiatives earned Miele the German Sustainability Award 2023, reinforcing the company’s commitment to responsible innovation across its supply chain and beyond.

Miele has embraced smart living through its Miele@home ecosystem. From AI-powered ovens that learn your favorite recipes to washing machines that optimize cycles based on fabric type, Miele’s tech solutions aim to simplify life without sacrificing performance.

“Technology should enhance convenience, not complicate it,” Dr. Zinkann said. “Our goal is intelligent simplicity, always paired with elegance.”

He said: “ֱ is transforming rapidly, and we see a strong synergy between our values and the Kingdom’s aspirations.”

The center offers more than appliances; it hosts live cooking events, sustainable living workshops, and collaborations with local chefs. It’s a space where innovation meets culture, a symbol of Miele’s long-term commitment to the region.

Miele’s alignment with Vision 2030 isn’t accidental. Its focus on sustainability, innovation, and education mirrors the Kingdom’s path forward. 

Through partnerships with local entities like the Awad Badi Nahas Group, Miele is investing not just in market share, but in societal growth.

“We want to empower communities through knowledge and responsible innovation. ֱ is a key partner in that journey,” Dr. Zinkann said.

He added: “Today’s customers want appliances that reflect their values — efficiency, design, and sustainability.

“At Miele, we’re redefining what it means to be premium in a world that demands both beauty and responsibility.”


Iran ‘must make a deal, before there is nothing left’: Trump

Iran ‘must make a deal, before there is nothing left’: Trump
Updated 3 min 23 sec ago

Iran ‘must make a deal, before there is nothing left’: Trump

Iran ‘must make a deal, before there is nothing left’: Trump
  • Trump earlier told Fox News he was aware Israel was going to conduct strikes on Iran before it happened
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio said earlier Thursday that the United States was “not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region”

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump urged Iran on Friday to “make a deal,” warning that there will be more “death and destruction” after Israel launched deadly strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities.

“There has already been great death and destruction, but there is still time to make this slaughter, with the next already planned attacks being even more brutal, come to an end,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform.

“Iran must make a deal, before there is nothing left... JUST DO IT, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE,” he said.

Trump earlier told Fox News he was aware Israel was going to conduct strikes on Iran before it happened, and stressed that Tehran “cannot have a nuclear bomb,” according to the US broadcaster.

His comments to Fox came after Israel pounded Iran in a series of air raids on Friday, striking 100 targets including nuclear and military sites.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation took aim at the atomic facility in Natanz, while Iranian media said the country’s Revolutionary Guards leader Hossein Salami and armed forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri were killed.

Trump told Fox News that he was made aware of Israel’s operation before it happened.

“Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see,” Trump said, according to Fox News.

Fox News also reported that “Trump noted the US is ready to defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates.”

It added that Trump’s administration reached out to at least one key Middle Eastern ally to acknowledge that the strike was going to happen, but reiterated that the US was not involved.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said earlier Thursday that the United States was “not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region.”

“Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel.”

Trump will be attending a National Security Council meeting Friday morning.


UN nuclear watchdog chief ready to travel to Iran to assess situation

UN nuclear watchdog chief ready to travel to Iran to assess situation
Updated 23 min 25 sec ago

UN nuclear watchdog chief ready to travel to Iran to assess situation

UN nuclear watchdog chief ready to travel to Iran to assess situation

VIENNA: UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said on Friday he was ready to travel to Iran to assess the situation there after Israel carried out widespread military strikes that hit the sprawling nuclear complex at Natanz.

In a statement to a meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Board of Governors, Grossi said the other main enrichment center in Iran, Fordow, was not hit and neither was another nuclear facility in Esfahan, citing Iranian authorities.

There are no elevated radiation levels at Natanz, he added.

“I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond,” Grossi said in his statement.

“I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran.”

He did not say what the extent of the damage at Natanz was or what parts of the site were hit. The site includes a vast underground uranium enrichment plant and a smaller, above-ground pilot enrichment plant.

Iran is enriching to up to 60 percent purity, close to the roughly 90 percent of weapons grade, at the pilot plant, but it is producing smaller quantities of that material there than at Fordow, a site dug into a mountain that military experts have said would be difficult for Israel to destroy through bombardment.

“Despite the current military actions and heightened tensions, it is clear that the only sustainable path forward – for Iran, for Israel, the entire region, and the international community – is one grounded in dialogue and diplomacy to ensure peace, stability, and cooperation,” Grossi said.


In fresh alert, US advises citizens against traveling to northwest Pakistan citing security threats

In fresh alert, US advises citizens against traveling to northwest Pakistan citing security threats
Updated 49 min 36 sec ago

In fresh alert, US advises citizens against traveling to northwest Pakistan citing security threats

In fresh alert, US advises citizens against traveling to northwest Pakistan citing security threats
  • US mission advises American government personnel to travel in northwestern Pakistan in armored vehicles and with armed escorts
  • Pakistani Taliban militants have frequently targeted security forces and civilians via gun attacks and bomb blast in KP in recent months

KARACHI: The US Mission in Pakistan this week issued a security alert for its nationals in the country, warning them against traveling to the volatile northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province citing frequent attacks by “terrorist and insurgent groups.”

Pakistan has recently experienced a significant surge in militant violence, particularly in its western provinces of KP and Balochistan, where groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) have targeted civilians and security forces.

The TTP has frequently targeted security convoys and checkpoints apart from being linked to a rise in targeted killings and abductions of law enforcement personnel and government officials in KP recent months. In March this year, the US declared a Level 4 threat for KP, advising nationals not to travel there.

“Do not travel to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which includes the former FATA [Federally Administered Tribal Areas] for any reason,” a statement from the US Mission, shared by the US embassy and consulates in Pakistan, said.

“Active terrorist and insurgent groups routinely conduct attacks against civilians, non-governmental organizations, government offices, and security services personnel (police and military).”

The alert said these militants have targeted government officials and civilians, with frequent incidents of assassinations and kidnappings, including attacks on polio vaccination teams in the past.

The US Mission urged American government personnel to travel in armored vehicles with armed escorts whether on official or personal trips to northwestern Pakistan.

“Additional restrictions on movements can occur suddenly and at any time, depending on local circumstances and security conditions,” it said.

Pakistan was ranked as the world’s second-most affected country by “terrorism,” according to a global index published by the Australia-based Institute for Economics and Peace, which assessed 163 countries covering 99.7 percent of the global population.