GCC Workshop on Sustainable Development Goals: Key Insights for Investors and Entrepreneurs in Oman
MUSCAT: A regional workshop focusing on monitoring the environmental aspects of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) commenced on Monday in Muscat. Organized by the Statistical Centre of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), this two-day event gathers national and regional entities responsible for environmental data and sustainable development.
The workshop assesses the status of environmental indicators across GCC countries, reviews national and regional efforts in tracking SDG-related data, and showcases ongoing statistical projects in the environmental sector. Additionally, it aims to enhance coordination among organizations producing environmental data while highlighting international best practices from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Dr. Saeed bin Mohammed al Saqri, the Minister of Economy, stressed the necessity of bolstering statistical initiatives to monitor environmental progress and sustainable development. He acknowledged the vital role of the GCC Statistical Centre in facilitating data exchange, harmonizing methodologies, and employing modern tools for data collection and dissemination.
Al Saqri pointed out that the environmental dimension of the 2030 Agenda underscores the importance of effective natural resource management and the need for a balance among environmental protection, economic growth, and social well-being. This is especially pertinent in light of global issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource scarcity.
Intisar bint Abdullah al Wahaibiyah, Director General of the GCC Statistical Centre, indicated that the workshop’s goal is to enhance cooperation between environmental data producers and national statistical agencies to align with international standards. She reported significant achievements among GCC states, including over 98% access to safe drinking water and more than 95% access to safely managed sanitation services.
Despite challenges related to limited natural resources, progress has been made in water-use efficiency, along with expansion in desalination and water reuse initiatives. Regarding climate action, greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 8% since 2015, with member states pursuing carbon neutrality by 2050.
Al Wahaibiyah noted that GCC countries have made substantial strides in marine sustainability, with all exclusive economic zones managed under integrated ecological frameworks. Marine acidity levels have stabilized, sustainable fish stocks now represent 92%, and marine protected areas encompass 20.8% of coastal zones.
In terms of biodiversity protection, she highlighted that protected land areas have increased to 26.3%, and the Red List Index for the region has reached 0.88, surpassing the global average of 0.72.
The workshop includes presentations on environmental indicators, statistical methodologies, and data dissemination, alongside sessions led by ESCWA and UNEP experts focusing on contemporary environmental monitoring tools. The second day will prioritize successful regional case studies and efforts to strengthen capacity building.
Participants include representatives from GCC statistical agencies, environmental authorities, academic institutions, and international organizations specializing in sustainable development. — ONA
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The recent regional workshop on sustainable development in Muscat signals a pivotal opportunity for businesses in Oman to align with evolving environmental standards and enhance their operations through improved data management. This initiative not only presents opportunities for investment in green technologies but also underscores the importance of risk management, particularly in the face of climate challenges and resource scarcity. Smart investors should now consider strategies that integrate sustainable practices and harness the benefits of enhanced statistical coordination to drive growth and innovation in their sectors.
