Qatar Sustainability Week (QSW) 2024 marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s journey toward a sustainable future. With record participation, a diverse range of activities, and key discussions on global environmental issues, the week reflected Qatar’s deepening commitment to sustainability and questions surrounding their deep-rooted ties to the oil and gas industry.
As the country continues to position itself as a leader in the region and on the global stage, QSW 2024 showcased its ambitions, achievements, and ongoing challenges.
QSW 2024 attracted unprecedented participants, with over 150,000 people engaging in nearly 500 activities. From corporate stakeholders to grassroots movements, the event highlighted how sustainability is becoming a central part of Qatar’s national identity. The surge in participation reflects growing public and private interest in environmental issues, demonstrating the event’s success in galvanizing various sectors.
The first-ever Qatar National Dialogue on Climate Change (QNDCC) was a cornerstone of QSW 2024. Held on October 1-2 at the Qatar National Convention Center, the event brought together local and international experts to discuss climate adaptation, carbon management, and Qatar’s role in shaping global climate policies. Co-hosted by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future, the dialogue set the stage for Qatar’s continued involvement in international negotiations, particularly in the lead-up to COP29 in Baku.
Key takeaways from the QNDCC included a reaffirmation of Qatar’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and discussions on balancing economic growth with environmental goals—a challenge the country is acutely aware of, given its reliance on the fossil fuel industry.
Circular economy practices were a central theme throughout the week. Sessions focused on reducing waste, particularly single-use plastics, and promoting the use of circular PET plastics. Companies like LuLu Hypermarket played a prominent role by installing reverse vending machines, which allowed consumers to recycle their plastic bottles directly in-store. This initiative was part of a broader national push toward reducing waste, improving recycling rates, and promoting sustainable consumption patterns.
However, some critiques emerged, with observers calling for more transparency on the long-term impact of these initiatives. While these projects are steps in the right direction, such efforts’ effectiveness must be continuously monitored to ensure lasting environmental benefits.
One of the more unique elements of QSW 2024 was the focus on reviving Islamic environmental values. Panels explored how the principles of stewardship, care for the planet, and living harmoniously with nature—integral to Islamic teachings—can inform modern sustainability practices. These discussions encouraged a cultural and spiritual connection to sustainability, offering a way to align traditional values with contemporary environmental challenges.
This approach was particularly impactful in creating a deep-rooted sense of responsibility among communities, ensuring that sustainability is not just seen as a policy or corporate mandate but as a cultural obligation.
Water scarcity was at the forefront of discussions during QSW 2024. Qatar’s heavy reliance on energy-intensive desalination processes has long been a challenge. The event highlighted innovations in water management, including advances in desalination technology and efforts to reduce water consumption through efficiency measures. The goal is to ensure that Qatar's water resources are secure and sustainable in the long term.
While progress has been made, some critics pointed out that Qatar still needs to diversify its water sources and develop innovative solutions to address the growing water demand.
QSW 2024 was not just about corporate and governmental efforts; it also saw active participation from local communities. The week engaged individuals in hands-on sustainability efforts, from beach clean-ups to upcycling workshops and recycling initiatives.
However, there were concerns about the sustainability of such efforts. Critics highlighted the need for year-round programs that ensure long-term community involvement rather than short-term bursts of activity during QSW.
The private sector played a significant role in QSW 2024, with many companies showcasing their sustainability initiatives. In addition to LuLu Hypermarket’s recycling efforts, other corporations focused on reducing their carbon footprint and promoting energy efficiency.
Nevertheless, there were accusations of greenwashing—companies promoting environmentally friendly practices for public relations without committing to meaningful change. Attendees called for more stringent accountability and transparency measures to ensure corporate sustainability claims are backed by real action.
With over 1 million people reached through media campaigns and sustainability-focused sermons, QSW 2024 made significant strides in raising awareness. Schools, universities, and religious institutions actively promoted sustainable practices, ensuring that future generations are equipped to tackle environmental challenges.
The outreach efforts are critical for Qatar’s long-term sustainability goals, as education is pivotal in shifting behaviors and creating a society that values environmental stewardship.
One of the more creative aspects of QSW 2024 was the inclusion of film and art competitions that brought sustainability to life through visual expression. These competitions offered a unique platform for artists to engage with environmental themes, bringing sustainability into the public eye in new and engaging ways.
Another highlight of the week was the connection between healthy living and sustainability. Through eco-friendly sports events and workshops promoting sustainable lifestyle choices, QSW 2024 emphasized that environmental stewardship goes hand in hand with personal health.
Despite the many successes of QSW 2024, the event also highlighted several challenges that Qatar must address as it continues its sustainability journey:
Qatar Sustainability Week 2024 was a testament to the nation’s growing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. From record participation to innovative discussions on the future of climate action, the week laid the groundwork for continued progress. However, the challenges highlighted during the event—such as corporate greenwashing, the need for more precise roadmaps, and the tension between economic growth and sustainability—must be addressed to ensure Qatar’s ambitions become reality.
