Following the success of its Path to COP28 campaign, Global Ethical Finance Initiative (GEFI), in partnership with PwC Middle East, launched the pioneering ESG Majlis Dubai series in 2024. The series brings together financial services leaders for exclusive, invitation-only sessions focused on key regional ESG opportunities and challenges. The first three events covered critical topics such as the UAE COP28 legacy, decarbonising the built environment and building economic resilience through nature and land conservation.
This white paper was published to coincide with the final ESG Majlis of 2024, which took place on 5 December 2024 under the theme “Building economic resilience: The financial imperatives of nature and land conservation”. Marina Antonopoulou, Senior Director – Conservation, Climate & Energy, Emirates Nature – WWF was the guest speaker for this session.
Land degradation is among the most significant socio-environmental challenges confronting communities today. The Middle East faces severe land degradation challenges driven by natural vulnerabilities such as hyperaridity, water scarcity and rapid population growth, compounded by unsustainable practices and governance issues.
This white paper explores the relationship between nature conservation and financial strategy in the Middle East, particularly for institutions aiming to integrate economic resilience, regulatory compliance and AI-enhanced solutions. It highlights the financial sector’s role in meeting global conservation standards and nature-positive goals.
Find out more at www.globalethicalfinance.org/our-work/esg-majlis-dubai
