Dubai Hosts Sustainable Bio International Forum To Discuss Future Of Bioenergy Solutions

The Sustainable Bio International Forum took place in Dubai, focusing on the future of sustainable bioenergy. The event, themed "From the UAE… to a Greener World," explored biofuel solutions like sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable transport fuels. It aimed to support a low-carbon circular economy by encouraging young scientists to advance research in this field.

Organised under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), the forum was a collaborative effort with the Association of Arab Universities and the Yousuf Award for Young Scientists. Decision-makers, experts, academics, and industry leaders from around the world attended to discuss innovative solutions.

Eng. Saif Ghubash, Assistant Undersecretary for the Petroleum, Gas, and Mineral Resources Sector at MoEI, highlighted that sustainability is central to the UAE's national agenda. The country aims for climate neutrality by 2050 through initiatives that reduce emissions and expand clean energy projects. The UAE has been proactive in testing flights powered by SAF with national companies.

Ghubash also mentioned that bioenergy is crucial for future energy needs, especially sustainable aviation fuel and low-carbon fuels. He noted that partnerships between universities and private sectors are vital for fostering innovation and developing technologies supporting a low-carbon economy.

Prof. Dr. Amr Ezzat Salama, Secretary-General of the Association of Arab Universities, stated that this initiative boosts investment in Arab talent. It encourages young scientists to innovate and supports scientific research for sustainable development in the UAE and Arab world.

Yousuf bin Saeed Lootah, Founder of the Yousuf Award for Young Scientists, said: "The Young Scientists Award aims to strengthen integration between academic and industrial institutions across the Arab world, and to support sustainable solutions in green chemistry, renewable energy, and the circular economy."

Forum Sessions Highlight Expertise

The forum featured two sessions with international experts sharing insights. The first session included Dr. Jennifer Holmgren from LanzaTech USA; Prof. Robert Spisak from Envien Group Slovakia; and Eng. Maryam Al Matroushi from ICAO. Dr. Hanifa Al Blooshi from Khalifa University moderated this session.

The second session saw participation from Julian Thiel of Desyl Switzerland; Shige Wang from Benayu Group China; Shin Ito from JGC Corporation Japan; moderated by Prof. Maria Lourdes Fernandez from RICH Centre at Khalifa University.

Awarding Excellence in Sustainability

The forum concluded with honouring winners of the Yousuf bin Saeed Lootah Award for Young Scientists across three categories: Green Chemistry Category, Renewable Energy Category, and Circular Economy Category.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing scientific innovation in sustainable bioenergy. They expressed dedication to opening new horizons towards a greener future through collaboration and research advancements.

With inputs from WAM