Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a long-term plan to have zero emissions from public transport in Dubai by 2050.
The RTA is the first government body in the MENA region to create a comprehensive plan for public transport and related infrastructure.
The plan will include broadening the use of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles and buses for public transport, as well as school buses, taxis and limousines to reach the target by 2050.
Clean energy, such as solar power, rehabilitation of existing buildings, and introducing the construction of almost emission-free buildings at the RTA in all new projects will also be done.
Smart and power-efficient streetlights will also be installed by 2035, with 100% of municipal waste at the RTA recycled and reused by 2030.
The plan will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 8 million tons of carbon dioxide and will save around Dhs 3 billion by 2050.
Nasir Bu Shehab, CEO of Strategy and Corporate Governance Sector at the RTA said, “RTA is making continued efforts to plan for sustainable and environmental-friendly public transport and integrate it as part of its strategic plans as reflected in its Strategic Goal: Safety and Environmental Sustainability. Such a drive contributes to curbing climate change and supports the long-term national initiative rolled out by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, in 2012 to foster a green economy in the UAE under the theme: Green Economy for Sustainable Development. It also supports the commitment of the UAE to the Paris Agreement On Climate Change to reduce the emissions in the UAE by 23.5% by 2030.”