Emirates Environment hosts the second discussion session in 2026
Dubai, April 29 / WAM / The Emirates Environment Working Group hosted the second discussion session of 2026, entitled “Decarbonizing the Packaging Sector: Life Cycle Assessment, Carbon Footprint, Innovation and Climate Neutrality Strategies,” with the participation of policymakers, industry leaders, sustainability experts, academics and youth.
The session discussed effective ways to reduce emissions related to the packaging sector, and promote circular and climate-compatible packaging systems, in light of growing global climate commitments, and packaging is considered a major contributor to scope three emissions across the manufacturing, retail trade and consumer goods sectors.
Dr. Habiba Al Marashi, the founding member and head of the group, emphasized that packaging is not just a functional necessity, but rather an essential element in global supply chains and responsible environmental management, noting that life cycle assessment and carbon footprint represent pivotal tools for identifying emissions hotspots, enhancing the efficiency of resource use, and ensuring that climate neutrality strategies are measurable and reliable.
She said: “Decarbonizing packaging is an essential element of climate action and sustainable production. By applying life cycle assessment, promoting innovation, and intensifying cooperation across value chains, we can ensure that packaging solutions effectively contribute to reducing emissions and enhancing environmental resilience in the long term. The Emirates Environment Working Group remains committed to supporting informed dialogue and practical paths that advance climate neutrality strategies.”
A number of experts participated in the session, including Jamila Al Meer, Strategic Advisor at the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority, Dr. Nika Salvetti, Visiting Professor at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, Omar Jaber, Regional Director of Legal Affairs and Sustainability in the Middle East and North Africa at Canpac Middle East, and Deepak Chavan from NAPCO National Company.
Participants reviewed the technical, regulatory, market, and design dimensions of decarbonizing the packaging sector, and the role of life cycle-based assessments in supporting informed decision-making, guiding the selection of low-emission materials, and enhancing transparency in sustainability reports.
Discussions also covered innovation in materials science, circular design, recycling infrastructure, and advanced technologies, including digital carbon accounting tools and supply chain tracking systems.
Speakers emphasized that low-carbon packaging requires strong waste management systems, investments in recycling capabilities, uniform standards, and supportive policy frameworks, including extended producer responsibility, as well as establishing the credibility of climate neutrality claims through measurable reductions and transparent accounting consistent with international best practices.
They emphasized the importance of a data-driven approach, policy integration, long-term investment, and collaboration between governments, manufacturers, brands, academia and researchers, to scale up low-carbon packaging solutions and promote sustainability.
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