Qatar Foundation Drives Sustainability with Strategic Initiatives

Qatar Foundation

Qatar Foundation is playing a key role in advancing Qatar’s sustainability journey through a comprehensive approach that integrates education, research, and community development. Central to this effort is the Foundation’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices via various targeted initiatives and projects.

Dr. Veronica Bermudez, Senior Research Director of the Energy Center at Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), highlighted in an interview with The Peninsula that Qatar Foundation's entities are crucial in leading the nation’s sustainability efforts. QEERI, part of Hamad Bin Khalifa University under Qatar Foundation, exemplifies this commitment. Recently, Qatar Foundation established a Technical Executive Committee of senior experts from different entities to set and achieve sustainability goals aligned with national objectives, including reducing energy consumption, increasing renewable energy use, and lowering carbon footprints. This committee reports to the CEO and the board.

“Qatar Foundation adopts a holistic approach to sustainability, integrating education, research, and community development to further Qatar’s sustainability goals and build a sustainable future,” Dr. Bermudez stated. She emphasized the Foundation’s initiatives across various sectors to promote environmental consciousness, social responsibility, and sustainable living.

Education for Sustainable Development is at the heart of Qatar Foundation’s agenda, integrating sustainability principles into educational programs to foster a generation of environmentally conscious individuals. The Foundation also invests in renewable energy projects, including solar energy, and promotes green building practices and sustainable transportation options such as cycling, carpooling, and public transportation to reduce environmental impacts and traffic congestion.

Qatar Foundation actively raises environmental awareness through campaigns, workshops, and events, educating the community about sustainability and eco-friendly practices. These efforts highlight the Foundation’s commitment to advancing sustainability in Qatar and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

Dr. Bermudez noted that Qatar Foundation exemplifies sustainability leadership, with entities like QEERI pioneering research in environmental sustainability and renewable energy. QEERI’s work addresses environmental challenges such as water scarcity, waste management, air pollution, coastal degradation, and climate change impacts. Despite Qatar’s high per capita carbon footprint due to reliance on natural gas, QEERI’s projects in solar energy, energy conservation, and emission reduction are crucial in mitigating these impacts.

Other notable initiatives by Qatar Foundation include the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), promoting sustainable healthcare practices, and Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), supporting startups focused on sustainable technologies and clean energy solutions. These efforts drive sustainable economic growth and innovation in Qatar. Additionally, research centers like Earthna on the Education City campus focus on water security, urban development, environmental conservation, and renewable energy, contributing valuable knowledge and solutions to sustainability challenges.

Through its commitment to research, innovation, and sustainability initiatives, Qatar Foundation and its entities are instrumental in paving the way for a more sustainable future in Qatar, aligning with the country’s broader sustainability goals and aspirations.