The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Centre for Responsible Business, in partnership with DP World organised the first Sustainability Network Share and Learn session entitled, 'Environment Safety and Corporate Responsibility Majilis' which was hosted in Jebel Ali Port recently.

The session was attended by DP World and Dubai Chamber Sustainability Network members, representatives of private sector companies and regulators and dealt with varied topics on sustainability in free zone, ports and maritime industry with a special focus on regulatory authorities, services providers and customers in the maritime industry.

The session shared presentations by DP World and Dubai World regulators, showcasing sustainable frameworks and initiatives in its flagship Jebel Ali Port and wider global portfolio which covers 60 marine terminals across six continents. 

Attendees also learned about Trakhees's vision of a sustainable port built environment and a customer perspective from Maersk Line as a leader in the shipping industry. 

Mohammed Sharaf, Group CEO, DP World, said: "We welcome the opportunity to share our corporate responsibility vision and strategy with other businesses and to engage in such events. Our approach is about how we integrate responsible business practices into our daily activities, growing our business in a sustainable manner. 

"Rather than applying a uniform policy across the countries in which we operate, our strategy is based on the four quadrants of community, environment, people and safety and marketplace and is adapted to suit the local needs of each community. In essence, a process that involves a global plan and local action," added Sharaf.

Jebel Ali Port initiatives and programmes are designed to enhance the businesses ability to manage Safety and Environment performance which reflect positive personnel behaviour and cultural benefit and promote DP World as a viable corporate citizen. Last year, Jebel Ali achieved ISO 14001 EMS & OHSAS18001 certifications.

The Dubai Chamber Sustainability Network provides a platform for members to share best practices, foster learning, exchange information and the opportunity to jointly work on practical and collaborative solutions for CSR/Sustainability. 

Starting this year, the Dubai Chamber Sustainability Network Member Share and Learn Session will offer members a unique opportunity to learn from their peers, exchange CSR/Sustainability best practices and network with other members.

Dr. Belaid Rettab, Senior Director, Economic Research and Sustainable Business Development Sector, Dubai Chamber, stated that these share and learn sessions by the Dubai Chamber Sustainability Network allow the participating companies to showcase their responsible business practices to their stakeholders and to become role models and leaders in CSR, sustainability and corporate governance. Also, the Network provides an opportunity for companies to network, collaborate and contribute towards the sustainability agenda of Dubai, he said.

The Dubai Chamber Sustainability Network consists of 41 members, with a record of achievements in sustainable excellence, as well as a determination to lead the business community to the next level and be at the forefront of sustainability practices in the region. 

The Centre for Responsible Business, which was formed in 2004, is the longest standing centre promoting business responsibility in the UAE. The Centre offers a variety of educational, professional training and consulting services that are designed to increase a company's capacity to implement broad CSR programmes including business ethics, sustainability reporting and corporate governance into their day-to-day working environment.