Page 426 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - JANUARY 2024

1/18/24, 3:56 PM UAE launches new 'EcoMark' green accreditation framework for MSMEs
The EcoMark certification, which is based on ISO standards and digitally enabled,

will include a full suite of resources to help MSMEs attain EcoMark status,

covering document requirement guidelines and a roadmap to progress from basic to

advanced levels of sustainability, and a standardised application process and

complete eligibility criterion for accreditors in the participating countries. The

framework will be overseen by a central body headquartered in the UAE.

The initiative was announced at the World Economic Forum annual meeting in

Davos by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade,

during a panel discussion titled 'A New Trade Order: Inclusive Growth'.

The panel, which gathered ministers, policymakers, and academics to explore

means to better integrate LDCs, MSMEs, and female and youth-led businesses into

global trade, highlighted the need to help emerging enterprises keep pace with

increasing consumer demand for products and services that comply with green

standards.

Launching the initiative, Al Zeyoudi emphasised that MSMEs have a pivotal role in

driving the transition toward a lower-carbon economy. However, the contribution of

MSMEs such as those run and operated by underrepresented groups including

women and youth can only be unlocked through targeted and customised support

that reduces time, cost and resource constraints associated with environmental

regulatory compliance.

Al Zeyoudi said, "Accounting for almost 90 percent of global businesses, MSMEs

must have full access to the global trading system if our vision of a more
sustainable and equitable global economy is to be realised. These enterprises are

also important agents of change, with the flexibility and singularity of focus
required to drive sustainability across value chains.

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