With the relentless efforts of scientists and activists spanning over decades, the world has now agreed on the need to save the planet from the impacts of human-induced climate change. There, however, remains, the challenge of balancing development and the needs of the growing population with environmental protection.
Although there is a consensus on the immense importance of sustainable development in order to protect the Earth, unfortunately, the world is still a long way from transitioning towards sustainability and most countries are still lagging behind.
There are some countries, however, which are way ahead of all the rest and making huge progress on sustainable development. Qatar is one such country that is leading the world in sustainability and is truly setting gold standards for the promotion of the Green economy.
In an exclusive interview with TFT His Excellency Ahmed ElIdrisy, Chief Sustainability Officer of Qatar Free Zone shared information on some of the amazing work that he is doing at QFZ.
TFT: Your Excellency, tell us about the Qatar Free Zone and how exactly it defines the new opportunities offered by Qatar?
AE: Qatar is definitely a world leader when it comes to sustainable development and a green economy. Qatar Free Zone Authority in Doha is a globally competitive, strategic hub for businesses seeking to access markets in the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. It has world-class infrastructure, investor-friendly policies, and strategic partnerships, and that is how it offers a dynamic platform for all businesses to thrive.
We at QFZ are redefining opportunities by aligning our efforts with Qatar National Vision 2030, focusing on economic diversification, innovation, and sustainable development.
Today in Qatar we are fostering the businesses in the sectors of advanced manufacturing, logistics, green technologies, and digital services. We are creating new growth pathways that position Qatar as a regional and global leader in trade and investment. QFZ is offering unprecedented opportunities to all industries around the world.
TFT: How are you incorporating Sustainability and sustainable practices at QFZ?
AE: Sustainability is actually at the core of our strategy. We are embedding sustainable practices into every facet of operations and governance by developing an innovative Circular Economy Platform where businesses can exchange, reuse, or recycle surplus materials, reducing waste generation. This is an innovative idea through which we are ensuring zero waste. We are also Implementing energy-efficient systems across the entire Free Zone and piloting solar-powered EV charging stations to reduce carbon emissions.
We are also utilising a hundred percent treated Sewage Effluent (TSE) for landscaping, saving thousands of liters of freshwater annually.
We are encouraging businesses to adopt environmental, social, and governance disclosure practices through our digital platform, promoting accountability and transparency. All these initiatives are helping our partners responsibly operate socially and environmentally.
TFT: How much are your policies for developing new protocols in the Qatar Free Zone?
AE: At QFZ, we proactively implement policies that set benchmarks for sustainability and environmental responsibility. We have very high standard health and safety regulations and environmental and governance standards that ensure that all businesses at QFZ comply with international protocols while operating efficiently.
We are also continuously refining our sustainability policies, incorporating the latest global best practices. Our dynamic protocols are creating an ecosystem that balances growth with environmental stewardship.
The inspiring efforts of the Qatar Free Zone under the visionary leadership of His Excellency Ahmed ElIdrisy highlight the transformative potential of sustainable development
TFT: How do you think Qatar Free Zone protocols are saving and protecting the environment?
AE: At QFZ we have the best green building standards and we are promoting renewable energy. QFZ’s protocols are designed to protect the environment through enforcing green building standards and these are promoting renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions. We are also Implementing the best waste management systems designed to minimize landfill contributions. We are constantly monitoring air quality, energy performance, and water consumption to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
We keep watch and partner with tenants to reduce all emissions through energy audits and efficiency measures. All these initiatives ensure that the Free Zone grows responsibly while minimizing its environmental footprint.
TFT: Are these protocols scalable and doable in other parts of the world?
AE: Absolutely. The sustainability protocols we implement at QFZ are designed to be scalable, adaptable, and globally applicable. By leveraging innovation, data-driven insights, and collaborative partnerships, our approaches can serve as a model for Free Zones, industrial hubs, and cities worldwide. The key lies in fostering local capacity, embracing technology, and ensuring stakeholder alignment. Sustainable development is achievable in any part of the world with a clear vision, commitment, and practical solutions.
TFT: How did you develop this interest in climate protection and sustainability?
AE: My passion for climate protection stems from a deep appreciation for nature and a realisation of the urgency of addressing environmental challenges. Over the years, I have seen firsthand how unchecked industrial growth impacts ecosystems, communities, and economies. I have always believed that innovation and responsible leadership can drive positive change.
TFT: Tell us about your background in environment protection, management, and sustainability?
AE: I did my MSc in Pollution and Environmental Control from the University of Manchester, a Diploma in Advanced Management and Leadership from the University of Oxford, and a Chief Sustainability Officer Diploma from MIT. My experience spans environmental risk assessment, occupational safety, and sustainability leadership roles.
I have also worked extensively on circular economy projects, carbon management frameworks, and ESG strategy development, contributing to Qatar Free Zone’s success in these areas.
TFT: Your Excellency, do you think Industry and Environment can flourish together?
AE: I do believe that industry and the environment can flourish together. The key lies in adopting sustainable business models, leveraging green technologies, and embracing circular economy principles. But it needs operational efficiencies through energy and resource optimization, demonstrating environmental responsibility and by aligning with global trends like net-zero commitments and ESG-focused investments.
I am optimistic about the future of industry, trade, and commerce. Many businesses are recognizing that sustainability is no longer optional but essential for resilience and growth.
Industries can adopt renewable energy, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable supply chains to drive economic growth while protecting the environment. QFZ’s Circular Economy Platform proves that industries can turn waste into valuable resources, benefiting both the environment and the economy.
All industries must view environmental protection not as a constraint but as an opportunity for innovation and long-term success.
TFT: Is the future of the planet safe from the current trend of industrial progress?
AE: I believe we need to come together on collective action at global, national, and organizational levels. Every country needs to implement clear and enforceable policies to reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy, and enhance resource efficiency.
All countries need to invest in clean technologies, carbon capture, and circular economy solutions to decouple economic growth from environmental harm. Encourage businesses to adopt ESG frameworks, measure their environmental impact, and commit to net-zero pathways.
Engage communities, governments, and industries to work together toward shared sustainability goals and redirect financial investments toward sustainable industries and innovation. By aligning industrial progress with sustainability, we can ensure a thriving planet for future generations while maintaining economic prosperity.
TFT: Thank you, Your Excellency, for sharing this valuable information with our readers. Indeed the innovative green initiatives taken by QFZ are truly remarkable and set the bar high for all other countries to follow. It is a testament to your leadership and Qatar’s resolve to ensure a green future for the world.
The inspiring efforts of the Qatar Free Zone under the visionary leadership of His Excellency Ahmed ElIdrisy highlight the transformative potential of sustainable development. These groundbreaking initiatives not only pave the way for a greener future but also serve as a model for global environmental stewardship and industrial innovation.