Representational photo
Doha, Qatar: In 2024, Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future (Earthna), a member of Qatar Foundation (QF) intends to accomplish diverse objectives in research, activities, and awareness initiatives, by actively engaging with the community, stakeholders, experts, and academics across various sectors.
This commitment extends to continued collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, as well as other key stakeholders, aligning efforts to contribute to the sustainability goals outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030, according to Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive Director of Earthna.
“As Qatar Sustainability Week and the Qatar National Dialogue on Climate Change make a comeback, Earthna remains steadfast in promoting dialogue and collaboration on sustainability,” Dr. Mata told The Peninsula.
Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, Executive Director of Earthna
He highlighted that the ongoing research efforts of Earthna will be a focal point, particularly in the areas of biodiversity, sustainability frameworks, traditional knowledge and cultural heritage, water management, and food security.
“Throughout the year, Earthna plans to release comprehensive reports on various topics, contributing valuable insights into these fields, with a focus on policy recommendations. These reports will not only serve as informative resources but also foster a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between ecosystems, human activities, and sustainable practices,” said Dr. Mata.
In 2023, Earthna has achieved significant milestones in promoting sustainability through various initiatives, emphasizing engagement, research, and policy development.
“From hosting a groundbreaking summit to participating in national and international dialogues and orchestrating a vibrant sustainability week with a community-centric focus. These achievements underscore the organization’s commitment to promoting sustainability and emphasizing its role in policy advocacy, behavioral change, and raising community awareness,” said Dr. Mata.
Earthna also made substantial progress across various impact areas, showcasing its commitment to sustainability, and contributing to positive change in key domains.
The Circular Economy Report signifies a pivotal step in Qatar’s pursuit of a sustainable, circular economy. The report outlines policy recommendations for economic diversification, aligning with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 commitments. Focused on six key sectors, including hospitality, water, plastics, food, the built environment, and energy transition, the report identifies challenges, opportunities, and pathways toward circularity.
In the area of climate change Earthna’s active involvement in COP28 discussions with Qatar Foundation underscored its global commitment to addressing climate change. The Qatar Pavilion, hosted by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, provided a platform for groundbreaking research, innovative solutions, and visionary discussions. Various experts and researchers, from Qatar Foundation’s research bodies and universities, participated in panel discussions, presenting insights on health impacts, decarbonization, youth and climate, and the intersection between climate change and health.
As part of the contribution in biodiversity and ecosystems Earthna began its research and conservation efforts towards protecting Qatar’s marine life with a focus on mangrove restoration in Qatar.
“This initiative will contribute to preserving crucial ecosystems, fostering biodiversity, and enhancing resilience, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Qatar University, and the MSC Foundation,” said Dr. Mata.
In regard with cities and the built environment, E arthna in collaboration with Neighbourlytics, the ‘Education City as an Innovation District’ report was presented at Cityscapes Qatar evaluates visitor engagement, offering insights for holistic urban development.
“Benchmarking against Doha and global innovation districts, the report highlights opportunities for Education City’s vibrancy, walk ability, and community engagement,” said Dr. Mata.
In the area of education, ethics and faith - in a new initiative, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education partnered with Earthna to implement the eco schools’ sustainability-focused curriculum in twenty schools this academic year.
“Highlighting this collaboration, the 2023 Eco-Schools Congress, part of Qatar Sustainability Week, brought together students, administrators, and educators to champion sustainability in education. The event served as a platform for students to showcase and exchange their eco-friendly initiatives,” said Dr. Mata.
